Augusta University

Bachelor of Science in Health Information Administration (BS-HIA)

Health Information Administrators manage people and information. They must supervise others, think logically, understand how systems function and interact, apply business theory for effective work processes, write and speak clearly, and discreetly handle confidential information. HIAs who have interests in computer science, business administration, health science, and health care facility administration are well suited for a career in the health informatics field.

RHIAs organize the evidence used in evidence-based medicine. They are the provider with organized evidence to support patient care, reimbursement, teaching, research, quality improvement, and legal inquiries. Accomplished in the art and science of electronic information systems, these professionals serve as advocates of the patient-provider relationship and the information suppliers for the business side of evidence-based medicine.

This degree prepares graduates for informatics-related roles in the health care delivery system. A student graduating with a major in Health Information Administration from Augusta University will assume an entry-level position in this professional field. Specifically, program outcomes are designed to assure that graduates of the program will be prepared to demonstrate:

professional knowledge, skills, and competencies fundamental to the health information management profession;

self-directed learning skills using a variety of resources and technology;

critical thinking and systems thinking skills; and

effective communication skills.

HIA professionals work in a growing diversification of settings in addition to the traditional hospital environment. They may be employed as:

Clinical data specialist

Patient information coordinator

Data quality manager

Information security manager

Data resource administrator or researcher

Decision support specialist

Our graduates are eligible to sit for the AHIMA national registration examination. Passing this examination entitles one to use the Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) designation after their name. Employers recognize the RHIA credential throughout the continuum of health care.