What is a Health Information Manager: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Share

Embarking on a career path in Health Information Management (HIM) within the United States presents a rewarding opportunity at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and business. HIM professionals are vital to maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of patient health information. However, prospective candidates often encounter hurdles in locating precise details about the diverse roles, required credentials (like RHIA or RHIT), and evolving skill sets demanded by employers. Sifting through the sheer volume of online resources for dependable career intelligence can be perplexing. As an expert in this field, I have created this guide to provide clear, expert insights into the HIM field, helping you understand the landscape and pursue these essential careers effectively.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Health Information Manager in the USA

• Education: Earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in Health Information Management (HIM) or Health Informatics, preferably from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).
• Certification: Obtain professional certification through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Key credentials include the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) for associate's degree holders and the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) for bachelor's degree holders.
• Professional Experience: Gain practical experience through internships during your studies or entry-level positions focusing on coding, data entry, or record analysis to build foundational skills.
• Specializations: Explore various focus areas within HIM, such as clinical documentation improvement (CDI), data analytics, informatics, compliance, privacy and security, or revenue cycle management.
• Demonstrating Qualifications: Earning and maintaining certifications like RHIA or RHIT signals your expertise and commitment to the profession, which is often a requirement for employment.
• Advanced Credentials: Consider pursuing a master's degree (e.g., MHI, MHIM) or specialized AHIMA certifications (like CHDA, CHPS, CDIP) for career advancement or specific roles like data analysis or privacy officer.
• Continuing Education: Engage in ongoing learning and earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain certifications and stay current with evolving healthcare regulations (like HIPAA), coding systems, and technology.
• Skills: Develop essential skills, including knowledge of medical coding, EHR systems, data analysis, healthcare laws, attention to detail, communication, IT proficiency, and potentially management/leadership skills.
• Work Environment: Expect roles typically based in office settings within hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, or government agencies. Standard business hours are common, though management roles may require more time. Remote work options are growing.
• Compensation: Health Information Managers earn competitive salaries, influenced by education level, certification, years of experience, geographic location, and the specific responsibilities of the role.
• Job Market: The job outlook for HIM professionals is strong, driven by the increasing use of electronic health records, the need for health data analysis, and ongoing regulatory requirements.
• Personal Qualities: Cultivate qualities such as integrity, analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, meticulousness, adaptability, and a strong commitment to protecting patient privacy and data security.

Table of contents

1. How can you become a health information manager for 2025?
2. What does a health information manager do?
3. What are the educational requirements for becoming a health information manager?
4. What skills are required for health information managers?
5. What is the certification and licensing process for health information managers?
6. What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a health information manager?
7. How much can you earn as a health information manager?
8. What is the job market like for a health information manager?
9. What future trends should health information managers prepare for?
10. How can interdisciplinary certifications boost your HIM career?
11. What additional academic disciplines can support your health information management career?
12. How can public health integration enhance your career in health information management?
13. How can online education boost career development in health information management?
14. What subspecialties and career paths are available for health information managers?
15. What challenges should you consider as a health information manager?
16. What is the return on investment for a health information management career?
17. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Health Information Manager

How can you become a health information manager?

Becoming a Health Information Manager typically involves a combination of formal education, professional certification, and practical experience. This pathway ensures individuals acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to manage sensitive health data effectively within the US healthcare system.

• Education: Obtain a relevant postsecondary degree, usually an Associate's or Bachelor's in Health Information Management or Health Informatics. Make sure the program is offered by nationally accredited online universities.
• Accreditation: Ensure your educational program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), as this is often required for certification.
• Certification: Earn professional credentials through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), such as the RHIT (Registered Health Information Technician) or RHIA (Registered Health Information Administrator).
• Experience: Gain hands-on experience through internships, entry-level roles (like coding or records technician), or volunteer positions within healthcare settings.
• Advancement: Consider pursuing a Master's degree or specialized certifications for career progression into higher-level management or specialized roles.

Following these steps provides a structured route to developing the competencies needed for this vital role. Commitment to education and professional development is key to building a successful career in health information management.

After getting these requirements, you have a lot to look forward to in terms of jobs! The global digital healthcare market, estimated at $220.10 billion in 2024, is expected to reach $836.10 billion by 2031, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21% between 2024 and 203, as shown in the figure below. This expansion is partly due to healthcare organizations adopting telehealth solutions, which facilitate remote patient care and decrease the risk of disease exposure in clinical environments.

The convenience of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and enhanced digital communication is encouraging the use of telehealth among patients and providers, which is anticipated to further stimulate the digital healthcare market growth in the coming years.

What does a health information manager do?

A Health Information Manager plays a crucial role in overseeing the systems and processes related to patient health data within a healthcare organization. They ensure that health information is accurate, accessible, secure, and compliant with regulations.

• Data Governance: Establishing and enforcing policies and procedures for the collection, storage, use, and protection of health information.
• Information Security & Privacy: Implementing safeguards to protect patient confidentiality according to HIPAA regulations and preventing unauthorized access or data breaches.
• EHR Management: Overseeing the implementation, maintenance, optimization, and effective use of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems.
• Data Quality and Integrity: Developing processes to ensure that patient records are complete, accurate, consistent, and timely across different systems. Some cheap Masters in Computer Science online programs can help you in understanding programming code as part of your job.
• Coding and Classification Management: Supervising or managing the application of medical codes (ICD-10, CPT) for diagnoses and procedures, impacting reimbursement and data analysis.
• Staff Supervision and Development: Leading teams of HIM professionals, including technicians, coders, and specialists, providing training and managing departmental operations.
• Compliance and Regulations: Ensuring the organization adheres to federal, state, and local laws, as well as accreditation standards related to health information.
• Analytics and Reporting: Utilizing health data for quality improvement initiatives, operational efficiency, research support, and mandatory reporting.

These professionals act as a critical link between clinical care, administration, finance, and information technology, ensuring data flows efficiently and responsibly. Their work underpins safe patient care, operational effectiveness, and regulatory compliance within the healthcare environment.

Findings from McKinsey & Company's 2024 report reveal generally high satisfaction percentages among health system respondents regarding their digital investments. Satisfaction was notably high for robotics or physical automation at 82.1% and advanced analytics/AI at 80.8%. Strong satisfaction was also evident for core initiatives like ambulatory care enablement (75.0%), virtual health for patient experience (74.7%), digital front door (73.4%), and revenue cycle management (72.2%). Solid satisfaction levels continued for contracting or value-based care (71.7%), cross-site capacity management (71.1%), remote patient monitoring (70.6%), and acute care workflow (68.5%).

Comparatively lower, though still representing a majority in most cases, were the satisfaction rates for hospital at home (64.0%) and virtual health intended to address labor shortages (52.3%). Overall, the data, shown in the graph below, indicates broad respondent satisfaction across many digital investment areas, with particularly strong endorsement for advanced automation and analytics tools.

What are the educational requirements for becoming a health information manager?

Specific educational requirements for Health Information Managers often depend on the desired level of responsibility and the employer, but postsecondary education is standard. Accredited programs provide the foundational knowledge needed for certification and practice in the field.

• Associate's Degree: An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Information Technology/Management typically qualifies individuals for entry-level technician roles and eligibility for the RHIT certification.
• Bachelor's Degree: A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Health Information Management or Health Informatics is often the minimum requirement for management positions and is necessary for the RHIA certification.
• Master's Degree: A Master's degree (e.g., Master of Health Informatics - MHI, Master of Health Information Management - MHIM) can be beneficial for senior leadership roles, specialized areas like data analytics or informatics, research, or academic positions.
• Program Accreditation: Graduation from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) is crucial, as it is usually a prerequisite for taking AHIMA certification exams.

Higher levels of education generally correlate with greater career opportunities and responsibilities within the HIM field. Prospective managers should typically aim for at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Some online MBA programs can also be an asset to help improve your business knowledge and skills.

What skills are required for health information managers?

Health Information Managers require a diverse skill set that blends technical expertise, administrative capabilities, analytical thinking, and strong interpersonal abilities. These skills are essential for managing complex health information systems and leading departmental teams.

• Technical Proficiency: Understanding electronic health record (EHR) systems, database management, HIM software applications, and basic IT principles.
• Medical Coding and Classification: Knowledge of coding systems like ICD-10-CM/PCS, CPT, and HCPCS used for billing, reimbursement, and data analysis.
• Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of healthcare laws and standards, particularly HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act).
• Analytical and Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze health data, interpret statistics, generate meaningful reports, identify trends, and solve problems related to information quality or workflow.
• Leadership and Management: Skills in supervising staff, managing departmental budgets, project management, strategic planning, and fostering teamwork.
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with physicians, nurses, administrators, IT personnel, patients, and external agencies.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and consistency of health records and compliance documentation.
• Ethical Judgement: Strong sense of ethics regarding patient privacy, data security, and professional conduct.

This combination of skills allows HIM professionals to effectively navigate the technical, regulatory, and human aspects of managing vital health information. Continuous development of these skills is necessary due to the evolving nature of healthcare technology and regulations.

What is the certification and licensing process for health information managers?

In the United States, health information managers are generally not required to hold a state license to practice; however, professional certification is the industry standard and is highly valued by employers. After graduating from any of the cheapest online healthcare management degree programs, certification is quite desirable.

Certification demonstrates competency and adherence to professional standards, primarily through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).

• Primary Certifying Body: AHIMA is the leading organization offering credentials for HIM professionals in the US.
• Core Certifications
  • RHIT (Registered Health Information Technician): Requires completion of a CAHIIM-accredited Associate's degree program and passing the RHIT exam.
  • RHIA (Registered Health Information Administrator): Requires completion of a CAHIIM-accredited (Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education) Bachelor's or Master's degree program and passing the RHIA exam.
• Examination: Candidates must successfully pass the relevant multiple-choice certification exam administered by AHIMA upon meeting the educational eligibility criteria.
• Specialty Certifications: AHIMA offers additional certifications for experienced professionals seeking to specialize, such as:
  • CHDA (Certified Health Data Analyst)
  • CHPS (Certified in Healthcare Privacy and Security)
  • CDIP (Certified Documentation Improvement Practitioner)4
  • CPHI (Certified Professional in Health Informatics)
• Maintenance Requirements: All AHIMA certifications require holders to complete and report continuing education units (CEUs) periodically to maintain their credentials, ensuring ongoing professional development.

While licensure isn't mandated, achieving and maintaining professional certification is essential for career recognition, credibility, and advancement in the health information management field. These credentials signify a commitment to the profession and verified expertise in managing health information.

What ethical and legal guidelines should you observe as a health information manager?

Health Information Managers are custodians of highly sensitive patient data, making adherence to stringent ethical and legal guidelines paramount. Observing these principles ensures patient trust, protects individuals' rights, and maintains the integrity of the healthcare system.

• Patient Confidentiality: Strictly upholding the privacy of patient information as mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and relevant state laws, preventing unauthorized disclosure.
• Data Security: Implementing and maintaining robust administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect electronic and paper health records from unauthorized access, use, or breaches.
• Information Integrity: Ensuring that health information is accurate, complete, timely, and reliable throughout its lifecycle, from creation to storage and use.
• Professional Code of Ethics: Adhering to the AHIMA Code of Ethics, which outlines principles related to patient advocacy, responsible information governance, professional competence, and ethical conduct.
• Regulatory Compliance: Diligently following all applicable federal regulations (like HIPAA, HITECH Act), state laws, and institutional policies governing the management and release of health information.
• Authorized Access and Disclosure: Managing access controls carefully and ensuring that any release of patient information is legally permissible, properly authorized, and documented.
• Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Making decisions related to health information management that prioritize patient welfare and ethical principles over personal gain or competing interests.

Did you know that healthcare data breaches are quite common?  The largest healthcare data breach in U.S. history occurred in 2024 when Change Healthcare, Inc. experienced a hacking incident that affected 190 million individuals. The second-largest breach took place in 2015 when Anthem Inc., a health plan provider, was targeted by hackers, compromising the data of 78.8 million people. In 2023, Welltok, Inc. suffered a similar hacking incident, impacting nearly 14.8 million individuals. Another major breach in 2024 involved Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., where unauthorized access led to the exposure of 13.4 million records. In 2019, Optum360, LLC, a business associate, reported a hacking incident that affected 11.5 million individuals.

The data, shown in the graphic below, reveals that hacking and IT incidents remain the primary cause of large-scale healthcare breaches, with business associates and health plans being frequent targets. The increasing number of breaches in recent years underscores the growing cybersecurity risks facing the healthcare industry.

Ethical conduct and legal compliance form the bedrock of the health information management profession. Vigilance in these areas is crucial for protecting patients and avoiding significant legal penalties and damage to professional reputation.

How much can you earn as a health information manager?

Salaries for Health Information Managers in the United States can vary significantly based on factors such as education, certification, experience, location, and the specific type of employer. However, the field generally offers competitive compensation reflecting the critical nature of the role.

• Education and Certification: Individuals with a Bachelor's degree and RHIA certification typically earn more than those with an Associate's degree and RHIT certification; advanced degrees (Master's) or specialty certifications can further increase earning potential.
• Experience Level: Entry-level positions offer starting salaries, which generally increase substantially with years of experience and progression into management or specialized roles.
• Geographic Location: Salaries tend to be higher in major metropolitan areas and regions with a higher cost of living compared to rural areas.
• Type of Employer: Compensation can differ between settings like large hospital systems, smaller clinics, government agencies, insurance companies, consulting firms, or software vendors.
• Scope of Responsibility: Roles with greater management duties, budget oversight, and strategic input typically command higher salaries than technical or supervisory positions.

Based on 2025 data from Salary.com, average salaries for Health Information Management Managers show geographic variation, with a national average of $107,717, a lower figure in Texas at $105,455, and a higher average in California at $118,812. In contrast, Health Information Management Specialists report a significantly higher national average salary of $168,404. This specialist role also demonstrates considerable location-based differences in compensation.

Specifically for specialists, the average salary reaches $185,750 in California and is even higher in major cities like New York, NY ($196,696) and San Francisco, CA ($210,505), while Austin, TX reports an average of $166,720, slightly below the national specialist average. This data, shown in the graph below, clearly indicates that, on average, specialist roles earned more than manager roles, and compensation for both positions was strongly influenced by location, with major coastal metropolitan areas offering the highest salaries.

While specific figures change over time and depend on the variables mentioned, HIM is recognized as a professional field with solid earning potential. Pursuing higher education, relevant certifications, and gaining diverse experience are key strategies for maximizing compensation throughout one's career.

What is the job market like for a health information manager?

The job market for Health Information Managers in the United States is generally considered strong and projected to grow. Several key factors contribute to the ongoing demand for skilled HIM professionals.

• EHR Implementation & Optimization: The widespread adoption and continuous updating of Electronic Health Records require professionals to manage these complex systems effectively.
• Focus on Data Analytics: Increasing emphasis on using health data for quality improvement, population health management, research, and operational efficiency drives demand for data-savvy HIM professionals. If this is an area you're interested in improving your skills in, explore some of the cheapest online Masters in Data Analytics programs offered by top universities in the U.S.
• Aging Population: An older demographic typically utilizes more healthcare services, leading to a greater volume of health information that needs managing.
• Regulatory Environment: Complex and evolving regulations (like HIPAA updates, coding system changes) necessitate experts who can ensure compliance.
• Importance of Privacy and Security: Growing concerns about data breaches and patient privacy reinforce the need for skilled managers to protect sensitive health information.
• Diverse Employment Settings: Opportunities exist across various healthcare settings, including hospitals, physician practices, long-term care facilities, insurance companies, government agencies, consulting firms, and health IT vendors.

In 2023, medical and health services managers earned a median annual salary of $110,680, or approximately $53.21 per hour. The typical entry-level education required for this role is a bachelor's degree, with less than five years of related work experience needed. The total number of jobs in this field reached 562,700 in 2023, and employment is projected to grow by 29% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, shown in the graphic below. This growth is expected to result in an employment change of 160,600 new jobs over the decade. The high demand for medical and health services managers reflects the increasing complexity of healthcare systems and the growing need for efficient healthcare administration.

Individuals equipped with strong technical skills, analytical abilities, knowledge of current regulations, and relevant certifications (like RHIA or RHIT) are well-positioned for opportunities in this field. The evolving landscape of healthcare ensures that the role of the health information manager remains critical and in demand.

What future trends should health information managers prepare for?

Emerging technologies and evolving regulatory frameworks are set to redefine the role of health information managers. Advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain are poised to enhance data integrity and streamline interoperability, while increasing cybersecurity demands require proactive risk management. Additionally, integrating comprehensive digital strategies with clinical workflows will be essential in adapting to telehealth expansion and patient-centered care innovations. Professionals may also benefit from supplementing their expertise through interdisciplinary courses, such as exploring medical assistant programs online, to gain insights that complement their technical and managerial capabilities in a rapidly shifting healthcare landscape.

How can interdisciplinary certifications boost your HIM career?

Health Information Management now demands a multidisciplinary approach that extends beyond conventional administrative and technical proficiencies. Supplementing your expertise with targeted, interdisciplinary credentials can enhance your ability to tackle emerging challenges and integrate innovative digital solutions into healthcare operations. For instance, exploring opportunities such as medical assistant certification online provides practical insights into patient care processes that complement traditional HIM competencies. This additional qualification not only broadens your skill set but also reinforces your adaptability in an evolving digital health landscape.

What additional academic disciplines can support your health information management career?

Integrating complementary academic disciplines can offer health information managers broader insights into clinical and wellness perspectives. For instance, pursuing studies that provide a deeper understanding of patient physical health—such as an online bachelors kinesiology program—can enhance the ability to align data management strategies with overall patient care trends. This interdisciplinary approach not only supports more informed decision-making but also strengthens the connection between administrative efficiency and clinical outcomes, ultimately positioning professionals to navigate emerging healthcare models with greater adaptability.

How can public health integration enhance your career in health information management?

Health information managers can expand their impact by incorporating public health strategies into their roles. Integrating community health analytics, preventive care insights, and wellness trends into data management practices not only elevates patient outcomes but also supports strategic decision-making at the organizational level. Leveraging interdisciplinary knowledge—such as understanding nutritional influences on public health—can further refine data interpretation and support comprehensive care approaches. For example, exploring what does it take to be a nutritionist provides valuable insights that can complement your expertise and enhance collaborative efforts with clinical teams.

How can online education boost career development in health information management?

Online education offers a strategic advantage by providing flexible learning schedules, cost-effective program options, and access to up-to-date curricula that directly address evolving industry demands in digital healthcare. This educational model enables professionals to acquire advanced technical and managerial competencies while continuing to work, thereby accelerating career progression and enhancing skill adaptability. Additionally, exploring comparative affordability can be insightful; for instance, many learners examine options like cheapest online biology bachelor's degree programs to benchmark quality and cost in online education.

What subspecialties and career paths are available for health information managers?

The field of Health Information Management offers diverse career paths and opportunities for specialization beyond traditional department management. As the field evolves with technology and data needs, numerous specialized roles have emerged, allowing professionals to focus their expertise.

• Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) Specialist: Works collaboratively with clinical staff to ensure medical record documentation accurately reflects patient diagnoses and procedures, supporting data quality and proper reimbursement.
• Health Data Analyst: Focuses on extracting, analyzing, interpreting, and reporting on health data to support quality improvement, research, operational decisions, and strategic planning. Some cheap MS in Data Science courses in USA jurisdictions can help you improve in these skills.
• Privacy Officer: Specializes in developing, implementing, and overseeing privacy policies and procedures to ensure compliance with HIPAA and other privacy regulations.
• Security Officer: Concentrates on protecting electronic health information systems from unauthorized access, breaches, and other security threats.
• Compliance Auditor/Officer: Ensures organizational adherence to healthcare laws, regulations, and internal policies related to coding, billing, documentation, and information management.
• Health Informatics Specialist: Bridges the gap between HIM principles and information technology, focusing on EHR optimization, system implementation, workflow analysis, and data integration.
• Revenue Cycle Manager: Oversees the financial aspects related to patient encounters, including coding, billing, claims processing, and denial management, often requiring strong HIM knowledge.
• Consultant: Provides expert advice and services to healthcare organizations on various HIM topics, such as system selection, workflow redesign, compliance audits, or staff training.
• Educator/Academic: Teaches health information management or health informatics courses in colleges and universities.

These diverse pathways allow HIM professionals to tailor their careers to specific interests, whether technical, analytical, compliance-focused, or managerial. Pursuing advanced education or specialized certifications often facilitates transitions into these specialized roles.

What challenges should you consider as a health information manager?

While a career in Health Information Management is rewarding, professionals in this field face several ongoing challenges inherent in the dynamic healthcare environment. Awareness of these challenges is important for prospective and current HIM managers.

• Rapid Technological Change: Keeping pace with the constant evolution of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, data analytics tools, artificial intelligence applications, and interoperability standards requires continuous learning.
• Evolving Regulatory Landscape: Frequent updates and changes to healthcare regulations (like HIPAA, coding guidelines, quality reporting requirements) demand ongoing vigilance and adaptation to ensure compliance.
• Data Security Threats: The increasing sophistication and frequency of cyberattacks targeting healthcare data necessitate robust security measures and constant monitoring to protect patient information.
• Ensuring Data Integrity and Quality: Maintaining accurate, complete, and consistent data across disparate systems and diverse users is a persistent challenge requiring strong governance and auditing.
• Interdepartmental Collaboration: Effectively communicating and collaborating with various stakeholders, including clinicians, IT staff, finance departments, and administrators, who may have different priorities and perspectives.
• Information Governance Complexity: Managing the entire lifecycle of vast amounts of digital and paper health information according to legal, regulatory, and organizational requirements.
• Staffing and Skill Development: Recruiting, training, and retaining qualified HIM staff who possess the necessary technical and analytical skills in a competitive market.

Successfully navigating these challenges requires adaptability, strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and a steadfast commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining the value and integrity of health information within organizations.

Here’s What Graduates Say About Their Health Information Management Careers

Being a Health Information Manager is incredibly rewarding. I love ensuring data accuracy and contributing to better patient care, plus the career growth is fantastic. It's fulfilling to know my work directly impacts lives in a positive way. Jasper

I never imagined how much I'd enjoy managing health data. The blend of technology and healthcare is fascinating, and I'm constantly learning. Knowing that I'm helping to improve healthcare outcomes while enjoying a stable career makes me genuinely happy. Brian

This career has exceeded all my expectations. The work-life balance is great, and I feel valued as a critical part of the healthcare team. It's empowering to use information to make a difference in people's lives. Jenny

What is the return on investment for a health information management career?

Evaluating the financial and professional return on investment (ROI) in Health Information Management is critical for informed career planning. Several factors—including educational expenses, certification investments, and ongoing training—directly influence the value derived from entering this field. A comprehensive ROI analysis weighs the initial costs against long-term benefits, such as competitive salaries, career growth, and enhanced job stability. Prospective professionals can also examine cost-effective training options by reviewing the average cost of medical billing and coding program to gain further insight into managing educational expenditures while maximizing career prospects.

Key Findings

• Global digital healthcare market growth: The market, estimated at $220.10 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $836.10 billion by 2031, growing at a 21% CAGR.
• Highest digital investment satisfaction: Robotics or physical automation (82.1%) and Advanced analytics/AI (80.8%) reported the highest respondent satisfaction levels (McKinsey 2024).
• Strong core digital initiative satisfaction: High satisfaction continued for ambulatory care enablement (75.0%), virtual health for patient experience (74.7%), digital front door (73.4%), and revenue cycle management (72.2%) (McKinsey 2024).
• Lower digital investment satisfaction: Comparatively lower satisfaction was reported for hospital at home (64.0%) and virtual health for labor shortages (52.3%) (McKinsey 2024).
• Major healthcare data breaches: Notable incidents include Change Healthcare in 2024 (190 million affected), Anthem Inc. in 2015 (78.8 million), Welltok, Inc. in 2023 (14.8 million), Kaiser Foundation Health Plan in 2024 (13.4 million), and Optum360, LLC in 2019 (11.5 million).
• Medical/Health Services Manager outlook:: These managers earned a median salary of $110,680 ($53.21/hour) in 2023, with 562,700 jobs projected to grow 29% (160,600 new jobs) by 2033, typically requiring a bachelor's degree and <5 years experience (BLS 2023).
• HIM Manager salaries: The national average was $107,717, with variations seen in Texas ($105,455) and California ($118,812).
• HIM Specialist salaries: Specialists earned significantly more, with a national average of $168,404 and a California average of $185,750.
• HIM Specialist city salary variations: Top averages were found in San Francisco ($210,505) and New York City ($196,696), while Austin reported $166,720.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Health Information Manager

What are some myths and misconceptions about being a health information manager?

Understanding the reality of Health Information Management is key to appreciating its complexity and importance. Many misconceptions exist about the scope and nature of this vital healthcare profession.

• Myth no 1: It's just filing medical records. Reality: Modern HIM involves managing complex digital data systems, ensuring data governance, privacy, security, analytics, and compliance, far beyond simple filing.
• Myth no 2: It's a low-tech job focused on paper. Reality: HIM is heavily technology-driven, requiring expertise in Electronic Health Records (EHRs), databases, data analysis software, and information security tools.
• Myth no 3: HIM professionals work in isolation. Reality: The role requires extensive collaboration with clinicians, IT specialists, administrators, finance departments, and compliance officers.
• Myth no 4: Health Information Management is the same as medical coding. Reality: Medical coding is a crucial component of HIM, but the field encompasses broader areas like data governance, informatics, privacy, security, and departmental management.
• Myth no 5: HIM jobs are only available in hospitals. Reality: Opportunities exist in diverse settings, including clinics, physician practices, insurance companies, government agencies, consulting firms, software vendors, and long-term care facilities.
• Myth no 6: You don't need much education or training. Reality: Professional roles typically require at least an associate's or bachelor's degree from an accredited program and often professional certification (RHIT/RHIA).
• Myth no 7: It's a career with limited growth potential. Reality: HIM offers numerous pathways for advancement and specialization in areas like analytics, informatics, privacy, security, compliance, and senior leadership.
• Myth no 8: HIM doesn't directly impact patient care. Reality: Ensuring the accuracy, accessibility, and security of health information is fundamental to safe, high-quality patient care and clinical decision-making.
• Myth no 9: The main focus is just keeping records confidential. Reality: While privacy and security are critical, HIM also focuses heavily on data quality, accessibility for authorized users, data analysis for improvement, and operational efficiency.
• Myth no 10: Automation and AI will eliminate HIM jobs. Reality: While technology changes tasks, it increases the need for skilled professionals to manage complex systems, ensure data integrity, interpret analytics, oversee compliance, and manage AI implementation ethically.

What continuing education opportunities can I pursue as a health information manager?

Maintaining certification and staying current in the rapidly evolving field of Health Information Management requires ongoing learning. Numerous continuing education (CE) opportunities are available to HIM professionals.

• AHIMA Annual Conference & Exhibit: Attend the premier national event for networking, learning about industry trends, and earning significant CEUs.
• State HIM Association Meetings/Events: Participate in local chapter meetings, workshops, and conferences for regional networking and education.
• AHIMA Webinars and Online Courses: Access a wide range of virtual learning sessions on specific topics like coding updates, privacy regulations, informatics, leadership, and data analytics.
• Specialty Certification Preparation: Enroll in courses designed to prepare for advanced AHIMA certifications like CHDA (data analytics), CHPS (privacy & security), or CDIP (documentation improvement).
• Vendor-Specific Training: Complete training modules offered by EHR or healthcare software vendors to master specific systems used by your employer.
• Workshops on Regulatory Compliance: Attend seminars focusing on updates to HIPAA, HITECH, CMS regulations, or state-specific healthcare laws.
• University Courses: Enroll in individual college courses or certificate programs in related areas like healthcare administration, data science, cybersecurity, or public health.
• Industry Conferences (e.g., HIMSS): Attend conferences focused on broader health IT topics to gain insights into informatics and technology trends relevant to HIM.
• Professional Journal Subscriptions: Read peer-reviewed publications like the Journal of AHIMA or other relevant healthcare management journals to stay informed.
• Coding Update Training: Participate in annual workshops or online training focused on ICD-10-CM/PCS and CPT code set updates.
• Leadership and Management Seminars: Enhance management skills through workshops on project management, conflict resolution, strategic planning, or team building.
• Presenting or Publishing: Develop and deliver presentations at conferences or publish articles in professional journals, which often qualify for CEUs.
• Volunteering with Professional Associations: Serve on AHIMA or state association committees, contributing to the profession while potentially earning CEUs.

What resources can I consult to learn more about becoming a health information manager?

Several reliable resources can provide comprehensive information for individuals exploring a career in Health Information Management. Consulting these sources offers insights into education, certification, job roles, and industry trends.

• American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA): The primary resource for information on HIM careers, the RHIT and RHIA certifications, the Code of Ethics, educational pathways, and industry news.
• Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM): Provides a searchable directory of accredited Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's degree programs in HIM and Health Informatics, essential for certification eligibility.
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH): Search for "Medical and Health Services Managers" (which includes HIM roles) to find information on job duties, work environment, salary ranges, required education, and job outlook projections.
• State Health Information Management Association: Locate your state's AHIMA chapter website for local resources, networking events, regional job postings, and information specific to your area.
• College and University HIM Program Websites: Explore websites of institutions offering CAHIIM-accredited programs to learn about specific curricula, faculty expertise, admission requirements, and program outcomes.
• Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS): Offers resources related to health information technology and systems, valuable for understanding the informatics aspects of HIM.
• Online Career Exploration Platforms (e.g., O*NET OnLine): Use platforms like O*NET to find detailed descriptions of tasks, skills, knowledge, and abilities associated with health information management roles.
• Informational Interviews: Connect with professionals currently working in HIM roles (perhaps via LinkedIn or professional associations) to ask questions about their experiences and career paths.
• Academic Advisors/Career Counselors: Consult with advisors at educational institutions or career counselors knowledgeable about healthcare professions for personalized guidance.

References:

• Coherent Market Insights. (2024). Digital Healthcare Market Report. Coherent Market Insights.
• HIPAA Journal. (2025). Healthcare data breach statistics. HIPAA Journal.
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Manager Salary. Salary.com.
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Manager Salary in California. Salary.com. 
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Manager Salary in Texas. Salary.com. 
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Specialist Salary. Salary.com. 
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Specialist Salary in Austin, Texas. Salary.com. 
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Specialist Salary in California. Salary.com. 
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Specialist Salary in New York, NY. Salary.com. 
• Salary.com. (2025, January 1). Health Information Management Specialist Salary in San Francisco, CA. Salary.com. 
• Sewell, J., Kumar, S., Bazdaricka, A., & Van der Meulen, M. (2024, May 9). Digital transformation: Health systems’ investment priorities. McKinsey & Company. 
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). Medical records and health information technicians. Occupational Outlook Handbook.  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.