This AAS degree program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (www.cahiim.org) and prepares students for employment in maintaining and processing health information in hospitals, nursing facilities, ambulatory care clinics and health insurance agencies. Training in a realistic work environment include managing computer databases, coding and abstracting clinical data, quality control management of information, health-related legal principles and policies, and knowledge of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and HITECH Act regulations. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification exam offered by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).A 2.5 grade is required for all HIM prefix courses and a 2.0 grade or better must be maintained in all other courses required for a degree. All HIM courses must be completed within five years. Prerequisite/Admission Requirements:High School diploma or GED certificateStudents desiring a course of study leading to an associate in arts degree should consult the college catalog for the specific degree requirements. The AA degree is recommended for students who may consider continuing their education in health information management or administration.