Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Health Information Technology Degree in Billings and Missoula
Considering a Health Information Technology degree in Montana?
You’re in the right place. This guide highlights the best programs available, equipping you with essential knowledge in health informatics.
Discover the top schools, program specifics, and career prospects to confidently choose the pathway that suits you best.
Great Falls College MSU – Health Information Technology Program
Explore the Health Information Technology program at Great Falls College MSU. It is explicitly designed to prepare you for a successful career in health informatics. This program’s Associate of Applied Science degree is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM).
The curriculum offers diverse courses such as Medical Terminology, Human Form and Function, Health Data Content & Structure, and Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Healthcare. You’ll delve into Healthcare Reimbursement Methodologies, Diagnosis Coding, and more. These courses ensure you’re well-prepared to sit for the National Registered Health Information Technologist exam administered by AHIMA.
Key Features:
- Flexibility: This program is offered online, providing you with the convenience to attend from anywhere.
- Thorough Curriculum: It encompasses essential courses needed for a solid foundation in health information technology.
- Preparation for Certification: Graduates are ready to take the AHIMA exam, an important credential in the field.
Before starting, you may need to complete preliminary courses in math, science, and writing. These additional requirements ensure you are fully equipped for the program.
The estimated resident program cost is around $13,084, covering tuition, books, and supplies. Key courses such as AHMS, HIT, and HTH must be completed within five years of your application to the program. Conversely, AHMS 144 has a fifteen-year completion requirement. Feel free to reach out to Program Director Tina Gambhir for any guidance or details.
Missoula College – Medical Information Technology
The Medical Information Technology program at Missoula College offers an Associate degree with specialties in Health Information Coding and Medical Administrative Assisting. This program is meticulously crafted to prepare you for various healthcare roles, including patient account representatives, medical coders, and office administrators.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses focus on electronic medical records simulations, billing, medical coding, scheduling, and patient care.
- Internship Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience with local healthcare technology leaders, often leading to employment.
- Job Placement: Nearly a 100% job placement rate due to strategic partnerships with local healthcare employers.
- Financial Aid: Scholarships and financial aid are available to support your education journey.
Graduates find opportunities in diverse healthcare settings, adhering to HIPAA laws and ethical standards in their roles. Career options include medical records specialists, who earn approximately $46,660 on average, and medical coders, with an average salary around $54,797.
Missoula College offers robust programs to meet the growing demand for healthcare administration staff, helping you make a significant impact in the healthcare industry. Explore this path for a promising career.
MSU Billings – Health Information Technology Degree
At MSU Billings, the Health Information Technology degree offers foundational knowledge crucial for a career in health informatics. It includes courses such as HIT 101: Intro Health Care Informatics and HIT 265: Elec Health Rec in Med Practice. These courses introduce you to the intricacies of the U.S. healthcare system and the management of Electronic Health Records (EHRs).
Key Points:
- Essential Courses: Study everything from core concepts in health informatics to the management of EHRs.
- Privacy and Security: Focus on the legal, ethical, and regulatory aspects of healthcare information.
- Multidisciplinary Learning: Appreciate the multidisciplinary nature of health information technology, ensuring a well-rounded education.
While specific program details such as costs and course hours are not explicitly stated, MSU Billings provides a solid foundation in health information technology. This program ensures you acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the healthcare sector effectively.
Take the next step in your educational journey by exploring the comprehensive offerings at these top institutions in Montana. Each program is designed to prepare you for a fulfilling career in health information technology.
The University of Montana – Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Medical Information Technology with a Specialization in Health Information Coding
The University of Montana offers an innovative Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Medical Information Technology, specializing in Health Information Coding. This program is meticulously designed to prepare you for a career where accuracy and attention to detail are paramount.
Program Overview:
- Coursework: Key courses include medical information internships, career readiness, interpersonal communication, computer modeling, and electronic health records.
- Coding Specialization: It covers procedural coding, diagnosis coding (ICD-10), and CPT coding, delivered through Great Falls College-MSU.
- Certification Preparation: Graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams such as the AHIMA Certified Coding Associate (CCA) and Certified Professional Coder (CPC).
- Credit Hours: The program requires a minimum of 62 credit hours and a cumulative GPA of 2.0.
To ensure you gain practical, hands-on experience, the program includes a medical information internship. This experience is invaluable as it allows you to apply the knowledge you’ve acquired in a real-world setting.
For detailed information on advising and course availability, you can contact the program director directly.
University of Montana – Missoula College Health Information Coding Specialty Program
The Missoula College Health Information Coding Specialty program provides an Associate of Applied Science degree, focusing on the critical role of coding in healthcare. This specialization makes you a vital link between healthcare providers, patients, and insurers.
Key Elements:
- Curriculum Focus: Courses in medical terminology, billing fundamentals, healthcare informatics, and electronic health records.
- Tailored Tracks: Choose between a computing track or a health professions track based on your previous educational background.
- Certifications: Prepares you for certification exams to earn credentials like Certified Coding Associate (CCA) or Certified Professional Coder (CPC).
Emphasis is placed on accuracy, patient data management, and maintaining confidentiality and security of patient information. The program offers you the necessary tools and knowledge to excel in health information coding, ensuring a bright future in the healthcare industry.
For current details on costs, hours, and specific requirements, reach out to Missoula College directly.
How to Choose the Best Health Information Technology Degree in Montana
Selecting the best Health Information Technology degree in Montana involves considering several crucial factors to ensure you make a well-informed decision that aligns with your career objectives.
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by recognized bodies like CAHIIM. Accreditation affirms that the program meets rigorous academic and professional standards.
- Curriculum: Evaluate the comprehensiveness of the curriculum. Look for essential courses in medical coding, EHR, healthcare informatics, and legal aspects.
- Faculty Experience: Investigate the qualifications and expertise of the faculty. Experienced educators provide valuable insights and practical knowledge that can enhance your learning.
- Hands-on Learning: Prefer programs offering internships or practical experiences. These opportunities are crucial for gaining real-world skills that enhance employability.
- Delivery Mode: Decide whether you need online flexibility or in-person classes. Your learning style and schedule flexibility should guide this choice.
- Career Support Services: Opt for institutions that offer robust career services, including job placement assistance, resume-building workshops, and networking opportunities.
When you consider these aspects, you can select a program that not only aligns with your educational and career goals but also provides a solid foundation in health information technology.
Health Information Technology Degree By State
Conclusion
Choosing the right Health Information Technology degree program in Montana is a significant step toward a fulfilling career in health informatics. By exploring the top programs at Great Falls College MSU, Missoula College, MSU Billings, and the University of Montana, you can find the perfect match that offers the flexibility, accreditation, and comprehensive curriculum you need.
Interested in taking the next step? Visit the program links in this article and discover how you can embark on a rewarding journey in health information technology.