The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is the largest association of health information technicians and the premier certifying body in Healthcare IT. AHIMA issues in-demand certifications in health information management, coding, billing, and healthcare security.

The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) is the leading accrediting body of health IT degree programs.

AHIMA's Certified Coding Associate (CCA) credential demonstrates coding competencies across all settings, including hospitals and physician practices. Based upon job analysis standards and state-of-the-art test construction, the CCA is creating a larger pool of qualified coders to meet health IT employer needs.

AHIMA's Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) credential demonstrates mastery in classifying medical data from patient records. These coding practitioners review electronic health records and assign numerical codes for each diagnosis and procedure. CCS certified professionals know the ICD-9-CM and CPT coding systems, and are knowledgeable in medical terminology, disease processes and pharmacology.

AHIMA's Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) credential demonstrates expertise in health data analysis and the knowledge to acquire, manage, analyze, interpret, and transform data into accurate, consistent, and timely information, all while balancing the "big picture" strategic vision with day-to-day details.

AHIMA's Certification In Healthcare Privacy and Security (CHPS) credential is the only combined privacy and security certificate in the healthcare industry. The CHPS proves competence in designing, implementing, and administering comprehensive privacy and security protection programs in all types of healthcare organizations.

An acronym for "Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System," HCPCS is a set of health care procedural codes based on the American Medical Association's Current Procedural Terminology (CPT). Healthcare industry insiders often pronounce HCPCS as "Hick-Picks."

A practicum is a college course, usually in a specialized field of study, where students practice their skills in the field and under the supervision of an active practitioner.

AHIMA's Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) credential is designed for managers and supervisors of health information technicians. As the vital link between care providers, payers, and patients, the RHIA is an expert in managing health records, administering computer systems, collecting and analyzing patient data, and using classification systems and medical terminologies.

*RHIA certification candidates must hold a CAHIIM-accredited degree.

The Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification from AHIMA proves that a health information technician can ensure the quality of electronic health records by verifying their completeness, accuracy and proper entry into EMR computer systems. RHIT is the most demanded certificate for entry-level health information professionals.

AHIMA's Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) credential demonstrates the ability to effectively manage medical records by verifying their completeness, accuracy, and proper entry into EMR computer systems. Combined with job experience or a bachelors degree, the RHIT holds solid potential for advancement to supervisory positions.

*RHIT certification candidates must hold a CAHIIM-accredited degree.