Health Information Technology Program Preparing for New Students

The Health Information Technology (HIT) Program at Panola College is again preparing to train students to become health information specialists. “Health information technicians are professionals who have a diverse background of clinical knowledge, computer skills, and information and personnel management training,” said Professor Sandy Payne, HIT Director.  “Our graduates are typically employed in a variety of healthcare settings as well as insurance companies and legal firms. The duties usually include maintaining paper medical records, but today may include coding, analyzing, and processing health information in an electronic or mixed media format.” 

“I have been involved with this program since 1997 and am excited about the training we are able to provide,” said Payne. “We offer a quality program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education.

“Students have several training options and can choose to pursue either an Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) in Health Information Technology, or complete a one year Certificate as a Medical Coding Technician or Medical Administrative Assistant/Secretary. If they only need a class or two to improve their skills they can select from courses such as Medical Terminology, Health Data Content and Structure, Legal and Ethical Aspects of Health Information, Computers in Health Care, ICD-9-CM and CPT Coding,” said Payne.

Graduates of the AAS program are eligible to apply to write the national qualifying examination for certification as a registered health information technician (RHIT). Medical Coding graduates can take the exam to become Certified Coding Associates (CCA).

“Classes begin on August 21,” commented Professor Payne. “Students interested in the HIT program should sign up now if they would like to join the fall session.” Information about the HIT program is available online at www.panola.edu or by calling 903-693-1116.