A health information coordinator is a non-clinical healthcare worker responsible for managing patient data, including protected health information. A career in this field requires a high degree of professionalism and integrity, as you will be dealing with confidential information on a regular basis. Continuing your formal education beyond high school may or may not be necessary to become a health information coordinator, but doing so is likely to expand your job opportunities significantly. You will most likely need some experience working in an administrative or healthcare role and will need to develop strong computer skills.
At minimum, you will need a high school education to become a health information coordinator, but many companies will require additional education. Oftentimes, career development centers offer formal training courses, as do online professional development agencies. Certificate, diploma and degree programs are available through a number of technical and community colleges as well. Additionally, universities often offer four-year and advanced degrees in health information technology.
Such coursework generally focuses on the legal and ethical management of patient health information as well as technology options. Many programs also include a basic medical terminology class. Advanced classes will delve more deeply into technology and into structuring health information systems. The amount and type of education needed to become a health information coordinator will depend on the standards in your area and on the facility with which you are applying. Online research and inquiries to the human resources department of local hospitals can help you determine what specific types of educational qualifications you'll need to obtain.
Many companies prefer to hire experienced candidates. Combined with the proper education and skill set, any experience in a healthcare setting can help you become a health information coordinator. Experience in a highly responsible administrative role can also be useful. To help build your resume, you may want to consider an education program that includes an internship or practicum component.
Developing and proving an appropriate skill set is very important if you want to become a health information coordinator. Computer skills and organizational skills are two important areas to develop. Look for opportunities to demonstrate a high level of each in your current role so that you can demonstrate those skills to future employers.
When you become a health information coordinator, you will be dealing with confidential information, so you should expect potential employers to ask for solid references. You might also need to pass credit and criminal background investigations. The most common work environments for these positions include doctors' offices, hospitals, insurance companies and health information technology companies, so you may want to investigate those close to you to find employment opportunities.