WEST PLAINS, Mo. – An introductory class for one of the fastest growing career fields in the U.S. will be offered this fall at Missouri State University-West Plains.
Introduction to Health Information Technology (HIT 100) will be offered from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays for the convenience of working adults, said Connie Yates, director of the university’s Health Information Technology program. The course will give students an introduction to the use of technology in the healthcare field, the various career options in health information management, and the different aspects of health care delivery.
The text for the course, Health Information Technology and Management by Richard Gartee, provides a comprehensive understanding of the history, theory and potential benefits of health information management systems, Yates said.
“Health information management in the 21st century differs from health information management just 10 years ago, and the reason for that is technology,” Yates explained. “Health information is the backbone of healthcare delivery in both the United States and around the globe. To prepare for 21st century health information occupations, students need to understand not only the principles and practices of health information management, but the technology of it, as well.”
The course is part of the curriculum for the new Certificate in Health Information Technology that was approved by the Missouri State University Board of Governors at its June meeting. Those who complete the certificate, which is pending final approval by the Missouri Coordinating Board of Higher Education, will be able to seamlessly integrate into Missouri State-West Plains’ new Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology degree, which is still in the development stage.
Registration for 2014 fall semester classes is going on now. For more information about admissions and registration procedures, call the Missouri State-West Plains admissions office, 417-255-7955, or visit www.wp.missouristate.edu.