CHIMA-Recognized Health Information Management Program Offered Now through Online Learning

SYDNEY, NS, May 23, 2012 /CNW/ - For students wanting to obtain a Health Information Management (HIM) Diploma through online learning, and the vast job opportunities that HIM provides, the Canadian Centre for Distance Education (CD-ED) now offers a customized solution. In February, the Centre launched a 102-week HIM Diploma Program where students will learn to confidently collect, maintain, manage and secure health information.

Sandra Cotton, HIM Program Coordinator, stated "Key e-health occupations require a solid educational background such as the HIM program offered at CD-ED where students receive an unparalleled education that prepares them for the new challenges of the health care system."

This completely on-line program combines instructor-led web courses with hands-on experience in different settings. CD-ED provides ongoing support. This is the first completely online HIM program recognized by the Canadian Health Information Management Association (CHIMA), and is based on the highest education standards established in the Learning Outcomes for HIM.

"We are excited about this two-year distance education program. It will meet a real need in Canada for students and professionals to take this program in a distance education format," said Gail Crook, CEO of CHIMA. "CHIMA and the Canadian College for HIM wishes the Centre for Distance Education great success with its program."

In 2009, the Health Informatics - HIM Human Resources Report stated that labour and skills shortages will constrain the successful implementation of Electronic Health Information System technologies in Canada. With an anticipated 12,000 jobs required in HIM by 2017, it recommended that system-based, human resources planning measures be a priority.

Subsequently CD-ED developed this critical program whereby students will learn skills in the collection and analysis of health data to provide information used by clinicians, the health system, government agencies and researchers. Graduates may also use HIM-acquired skills in the educational and legal sectors. "As a completely on-line, real-time program, learning materials are updated as new information is learned from the constantly changing health care environment," said Cotton.

Canada's Centre for Distance Education has been providing online college courses with career-focused training since 1996. Its head office is located in Sydney, Nova Scotia with offices in Newcastle and London Ontario and Tampa, Florida.

Media Contact:
Sandra Cotton, HIM Program Coordinator
Centre for Distance Education
1.866.446.5898
[email protected]