The Health Information Management Systems (HIMS) Associate Degree from Northeast Community College prepares students for a career field focused on health-related information. This program trains students to manage systems that collect, store, retrieve, process, analyze, and communicate data within medical settings. Whether working with paper-based or electronic health records, graduates are equipped to contribute to hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, insurance companies, and government agencies.
As a comprehensive health information technology degree program, the HIMS curriculum at Northeast includes training in medical coding, billing and reimbursement, medical office procedures, legal and compliance issues, and advanced health informatics. Students also study the structure and function of the human body, pathopharmacology, medical terminology, reimbursement methodologies, and quality management principles.
Program options include:
- Certificate – Complete in one semester; gain foundational skills to enter the workforce quickly.
- Diploma – A one-year program that deepens your understanding of health information concepts and prepares you for more advanced roles.
- Medical Billing Diploma - A one-year program that focuses on billing and the financial operations of health organizations.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree – A two-year degree offering comprehensive training for long-term career growth.
Why Students Choose This Program
Northeast’s Health Information Management Systems (HIMS) programs are designed with flexibility to support your individual goals and schedule. Northeast offers flexible pathways with both online and in-person options for the HIMS program. Students can start with a short-term credential like the one-semester certificate or one-year diploma, or students can pursue a full degree—each level builds on the last, creating a seamless path toward career advancement. With multiple pathways available, an academic advisor can help you determine the best option to meet your career objectives and educational needs.
Health Information Management Systems is a growing field in healthcare, with strong demand for skilled professionals who can manage and protect patient data. The program prepares students for these roles by combining healthcare knowledge with technology and data management skills. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and government agencies.
Small class sizes in the HIMS program give students personalized attention from experienced faculty. Instructors are dedicated to helping student success. The small class sizes also foster strong peer relationships, creating opportunities for collaboration, networking, and mutual support throughout the program. These faculty and peer connections help students build confidence and lay the foundation for long-term academic and professional success.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
In the HIMS program, students also engage in learning that prepares them for real-world applications. Through course projects and assignments, students gain practical experience that deepens their understanding of health information systems principles. Additionally, students can join the Health Information Management Club, where they network with peers and professionals, engage in industry-related activities, and further develop skills outside the classroom.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:
- Medical Office Procedures
- Coding and Lab
- Medical Billing and Reimbursement
Program Details
Associate of Applied Science Degree: 2 years (63 credits)
Diploma: 1 year (39 credits)
Medical Billing Diploma: 1 year (33 credits)
Certificate: 1 semester (17 credits)
BlendFlex: This means the student has the flexibility to do the course online, in person, or virtually, or any combination.
The application for admission at Northeast is free. Apply for admission, and learn more about your next steps.
The Health Information Management Systems program accreditor of Northeast Community College is the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). The College's accreditation for Associate degree in Health Information Management Systems has been reaffirmed through 2028. All inquiries about the program's accreditation status should be directed by mail to CAHIIM, 200 East Randolph Street, Suite 5100, Chicago, IL, 60601; by phone at (312) 235-3255; or by email at info@cahiim.org.
CAHIIM
200 East Randolph Street, Suite 5100
Chicago, IL 60601-5800
telephone: (312)235-3255;
info@cahiim.org
Website
The Nebraska Health Information Management Association (NHIMA) is the state HIM association. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is the national HIM association.
Angie Wilker, Midtown Health Center
Brenda Machmueller, RHIT, CPC
Chelsea Neal, MBA, AFC
Christina Ingram, Faith Regional Health Services
Courtney Burbach, RHIA
Gina Glaser, BS
Gretchen Jopp, MS, RHIA, CCS, CPC
Julie Hable, MBA, RHIA
Kathy Nordby
Kimberly Semerad, RHIT, Franciscan Healthcare
Lisa Fix, RHIT
Lori Richter, MA, RHIA, CPHIMS, CHPS
Marilyn Blunck, BS, RHIT
Melinda (Mindi) Benis, RHIA, CCS
Robin Poole, RHIA, CRCR
Sandy Cubillos, Midtown Health Center
Sheila Augustine, MHA, FHFMA, CRCL, Nebraska Medicine
Terri Mcintosh, RHIT, CDIP, CCS
Tom Cleary, Retired HIM Professional
Tina Mazuch, MS, RHIA, CCS
Dr. Jeffery Hoffman, Dean HPS
|
HIMS Program Outcomes |
2020-2021 |
2021-2022 |
2022-2023 |
2023-2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
First Time RHIT Pass Rate: |
100% |
40% |
78% |
78% |
|
First Time RHIT Pass Rate: |
70% |
71% |
80% |
78% |
|
Graduation Rate |
42% |
33% |
22% |
35% |
|
Employment Rate |
75% |
100% |
100% |
100% |
|
Related Employment to HIMS field |
100% |
83% |
100% |
100% |
