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Health Information Management


Location(s):  Regina    Distance Learning Option

Health Information Management is a diploma program. It provides knowledge and skill development that encompasses biomedical sciences, information science and technology, the legal aspects of health information and the integration of clinical and financial information.

You will learn how to provide leadership and expertise in the following areas:

  • data collection and coding

  • data quality

  • record content and retention

  • record/systems management

  • patient access to health information

  • privacy, security and confidentiality

  • interpretation and analysis of health data

  • transition to the electronic health record

  • E-HIM (electronic health information management)


Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Health Information Management Association's national certification examination to attain the status of a certified Health Information Management professional.

For more information on the Health Information Management program, join us for the New Student Information Session:

Friday, April 23, 2010
12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
SIAST Wascana Campus, Regina

This session is open to accepted applicants and anyone who is interested in the Health Information Management program. If you are an accepted, qualified applicant or a qualified applicant who is waiting for a program seat to become available, attendance is expected. This session will cover topics involving an overview of the Health Information Management program, expected student workload, workplace and practicum expectations, support services, and presentations from a current student and an employer (topics subject to change).

To register for the New Student Information Session or for more information, please contact Raylene Lutz, Health Information Management Administrative Assistant, at (306) 775-7639.

Length: 66 weeks

Year 1 - 34 weeks; Year 2 - 32 weeks


Career Opportunities

Graduates may find employment in a variety of settings. These include:

  • hospitals (within the departments of health information management, admitting, quality management, research and statistics, information systems, utilization management and risk management)

    • government agencies

    • educational institutions

    • community health clinics

    • city police and the RCMP

    • law offices

    • insurance companies

    • pharmaceutical companies

    • primary care agencies

    • home care, mental health and outreach programs

    • nursing homes and long-term care facilities

    • research agencies

    • consulting firms


    Please note that the Saskatoon Health Region, and the Saskatoon and Regina Cancer Centers consider certified Health Information Management professionals difficult to recruit, and in high demand. There are often job vacancies in these organizations.

    For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

    Program Details

    Start Date(s): September

    Apply Now

    Admission Requirements


    • Grade 12 with a minimum overall average of 65% in the following subjects: English Language Arts A30, English Language Arts B30, one of Social Studies 30, History 30 or Native Studies 30, one 30 level math* and one 30 level science (one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics)

    • Minimum keyboarding speed of 30 words per minute

    • English Language Requirement


    Note

    • Accepted applicants may be required to provide evidence of a criminal records check prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the criminal records check. The cost of the criminal records check is your responsibility.

    • Practicum placements are located throughout Saskatchewan; therefore, all students must be willing to relocate in order to complete their practicum experiences.

    • Keyboard testing is available from SIAST Test Centres for a reasonable fee.

    • It is strongly recommended that all applicants take a Microsoft Word class. Students are expected to have a working knowledge of this program.


    *Revised Mathematics Curriculum Requirement
    (Effective July 1, 2013)


    • Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30
      (replacing one 30 level math above)

    • All other admission requirements remain unchanged



    Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.


    The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.


    ACCUPLACER ©     

    ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
    for this program

    80Arithmetic
    80Elementary Algebra
    85Reading
    85Sentence
    5WritePlacer
    Post-Secondary Success

    Post-Secondary Success Requirements
    for this program

    One year post-secondary studies including a post-secondary level English and math, plus a 30-level science


    Admission Method

    First Qualified/First Admitted

    The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

    Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

    Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

    Tuition and Fees

    • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

    Learning Method(s)

    SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
        Classroom
        Clinical/Practicum
        Home Study
        Online
        Sask. Communications Network
        Work Experience
        Work-based Training

    Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


    Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

    SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

    Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Fact Sheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.





    Transfer Credit and Future Study Options

    SIAST may recognize formal learning from other educational institutions.



    Year 1 - Semester 1
    expand/contract all

  • APHY 162  Anatomy and Physiology 1
  • You will study the human body, how it is constructed and how it functions to maintain homeostasis. You will focus on the interaction between the structures of the body cells, tissues, organs and organ systems. The course content includes levels of organization of the human body, cells, tissues, integument and the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular and respiratory systems. You will apply your theoretical knowledge in practical setting by performing dissections of specimens as part of the mandatory lab component.

    4.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Lecture hours
    22.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   ANAT 160    NURS 111   


  • CLIN 161  Clinical - Semester 1
  • Your clinical experience will focus on basic health record procedures. It will take place at SIAST and in local health care agencies.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

    Prerequisites:
    HINF 160 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • COMM 262  Workplace Communication
  • You will examine relationships in the workplace with emphasis on teamwork skills. You will acquire effective writing skills including business reports, letters, memos, minutes and resumes. You will learn and apply theory on effective oral communications, presentations, meeting management and interview skills and you will apply strategies to prepare for employment including job search skills. Your studies will improve the quality of your work relationships and enable you to effectively meet demands and challenges of the workplace.

    2.0 Credit Units
    34.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    COMM 160


  • COMM 291  Interpersonal Communications
  • You will develop employability skills by studying interpersonal communication theory and applications in the workplace. The course content includes the importance of self-awareness and self-esteem, perception problems, verbal and non-verbal messages, listening skills, creating positive communication climates and resolving interpersonal conflict.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 135    COMM 155    COMM 160    HUMR 182    JOBS 190    NEPS 114    NURS 114   


  • COMP 173  Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint and Web Publishing
  • Your studies will introduce you to basic skills in the use of PowerPoint software for designing, editing and delivering presentations. You will learn the fundamentals of web publishing for simple web page development.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 196    COMP 120   


  • COMP 174  Introduction to Microsoft Excel 1
  • You will study the basic features of Excel. You will learn to format spreadsheet elements, create simple charts and use simple formulas and functions.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Course Attributes:

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 138    COAP 197    COAP 344    COMP 120   


  • HINF 160  Health Record Systems
  • You will explore the structure of the health care system and uses of health information. You will study federal and provincial legislation regarding health records and the ethical/legal considerations involved in the confidentiality of health information. You will examine basic health record procedures.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   HLRC 162   


  • MED_ 161  Medical Terminology
  • Your studies will focus on medical language and its use in practical situations. You will be introduced to the structure and function of medical language and the medical terms relating to body systems.

    2.0 Credit Units
    34.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   MED 160   


  • PATH 161  Pathophysiology 1
  • The course provides an introduction to the study of various disease processes that can affect normal body structure and function. You will examine the diagnostic investigations and treatments associated with each disease process. You will also learn about the effects of drugs on the human body.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    MED 161 Minimum Grade of 60 and APHY 162 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


    Year 1 - Semester 2A

  • APHY 262  Anatomy and Physiology 2
  • You will study the human body, how it is constructed and how it functions to maintain homeostasis. The course builds on the information you learned in APHY 162 (Anatomy and Physiology 1). You will focus on the study of systems involved with integration, control, absorption, excretion and reproduction. You will apply your theoretical knowledge in practical setting by performing dissections of specimens as part of the mandatory lab component.

    4.0 Credit Units
    42.0 Lecture hours
    20.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   ANAT 265    NURS 111   

    Prerequisites:
    APHY 162 Minimum Grade of 60


  • CLIN 259  Clinical - Semester 2
  • Your clinical experience will focus on coding with the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision, Canada/Canadian Classification of Health Interventions (ICD-10-CA/CCI) and electronic abstracting. It will take place at SIAST and in local health care agencies.

    12.0 Credit Units
    177.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

    Prerequisites:
    APHY 162 Minimum Grade of 60 and CLIN 161 Minimum Grade of P and PATH 161 Minimum Grade of 60 and APHY 262 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and PATH 270 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • HINF 161  Health Information Analysis 1
  • You will learn how to retrieve, analyze and present data/information. You will also become familiar with the use and content of the basic Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) reports, data presentation and graphic techniques.

    2.0 Credit Units
    35.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    HINF 160 Minimum Grade of 60


  • PATH 270  Pathophysiology 2
  • Building on the skills you developed in PATH 161 (Pathophysiology 1), you will examine disease processes as they affect the musculoskeletal, skin, digestive, urinary and reproductive body systems.

    3.0 Credit Units
    38.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    PATH 161 Minimum Grade of 60 and APHY 262 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • PATH 271  Pathophysiology 3
  • Building on the skills you developed in PATH 161 (Pathophysiology 1) and PATH 270 (Pathophysiology 2), you will continue to examine disease processes as they affect the cardiovascular, respiratory and endocrine body systems. You will also examine neurological and psychiatric disorders.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    PATH 270 Minimum Grade of 60 and APHY 262 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


    Year 1 - Semester 2B

  • PRAC 165  Health Information Practicum 1
  • You will apply your previously-learned theory and experience in health information management while working in a health care agency in the province.

    13.0 Credit Units
    188.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Work Experience - Group

    Prerequisites:
    APHY 262 Minimum Grade of 60 and CLIN 259 Minimum Grade of P and HINF 161 Minimum Grade of 60 and PATH 271 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMP 173 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMP 174 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 262 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 291 Minimum Grade of 60


    Year 2 - Semester 3

  • COMP 175  Introduction to Microsoft Excel 2
  • You will study the intermediate features of Excel. Using the skills and knowledge you acquired in COMP 174 or COMP 172, you will learn to work with multiple worksheets, create and modify several chart types, perform data manipulation features and use more advanced spreadsheet functions.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Course Attributes:

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 344   

    Prerequisites:
    COMP 172 Minimum Grade of 60 or COMP 174 Minimum Grade of 60


  • COMP 176  Introduction to Microsoft Access 1
  • You will study the basic features of Access. You will create simple tables, queries, forms and reports. You will also modify database elements such as fields and records.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard Individual, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   CDBM 190    COAP 197    COAP 345    COMP 120    COMP 284   


  • COSC 262  Database Programming
  • You will learn the structure of program design, development, testing and documentation. You will learn to design single and multi-table databases using SPSS and Access. The course content includes the fundamentals of algorithms and algorithm analysis.

    3.0 Credit Units
    50.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    COMP 175 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMP 176 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • HINF 260  Health Care Delivery and Epidemiology
  • You will examine the health care delivery system in Canada. Your studies will include the nature and scope of epidemiology (especially as these relate to health information systems).

    3.0 Credit Units
    50.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    HINF 160 Minimum Grade of 60 and HINF 161 Minimum Grade of 60


  • HINF 261  Health Information Analysis 2
  • Your studies will focus on the research, design and methodology of health information analysis, utilization and total quality management. You will also review various health information sources and documentation. Building on the skills you developed in HINF 161 (Health Information Analysis 1), you will use Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) regular and special reports and be introduced to report writing and other information analysis skills.

    3.0 Credit Units
    50.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    HINF 161 Minimum Grade of 60 and CLIN 259 Minimum Grade of P


  • HINF 262  Health Care Law and Ethics
  • You will become familiar with health law (especially as it pertains to health information) and the issues associated with the privacy, confidentiality and security of health information. You will identify appropriate ethical conduct in pursuing your professional role and gain an overview of legislation relating to health care and health information. You will be able to design policies for the release of health information and participate in risk management activities, privacy impact analyses and threat and risk assessment activities. You will acquire these skills through a combination of independent study, lectures and discussions.

    3.0 Credit Units
    50.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    HINF 160 Minimum Grade of 60 and HINF 264 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • HINF 264  Selected Topics in Health Information Management
  • You will gain an understanding of health information systems, project management, policies and procedures and needs assessment. Your studies will prepare you for business and strategic planning and program development.

    2.0 Credit Units
    32.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    HINF 160 Minimum Grade of 60


  • HINF 265  Health Information Systems
  • Your studies will prepare you to deal with changes in computer technology and information systems. You will acquire the skills to participate in analysing and planning for system changes that affect health information files.

    4.0 Credit Units
    64.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Prerequisites:
    COMP 175 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and COMP 176 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent)


  • STAT 260  Statistics for Health Sciences
  • Your studies will focus on an introduction to statistical methods of analysis and inference. You will be introduced to descriptive measures, frequency distributions, probability, hypothesis testing, tests of significance and inference, correlation and regression techniques, analysis of variance and nonparametric methods. Computer software will provide a visual, interactive tool to help you investigate fundamental statistical concepts in a unique and useful manner. The course is applications-oriented with problems chosen from the health sciences field.

    5.0 Credit Units
    74.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   STAT 190   


    Year 2 - Semester 4

  • CLIN 288  Clinical - Semester 4
  • To prepare you for the workforce, you will develop your skills in International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision, Canada/Canadian Classification of Health Interventions (ICD-10-CA/CCI) coding and abstracting through classroom and lab experiences. Your studies will include a review of coding practices and guidelines, data quality issues, report writing and data presentation.

    10.0 Credit Units
    150.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

    Prerequisites:
    APHY 262 Minimum Grade of 60 and CLIN 259 Minimum Grade of P and HINF 261 Minimum Grade of 60 and PATH 271 Minimum Grade of 60


  • HINF 263  Human Resource Management in Health Care
  • Your studies will focus on management theories, maintaining collaborative relationships, managing and evaluating staff performance and development, committee structure and involvement, human rights and labour standards.

    2.0 Credit Units
    32.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Correspondence-Structured Time


  • PSYC 160  Psychology 1
  • The course provides an introduction to the study of psychology as a science. You will explore the study of human behaviour by examining concepts. These include perception, learning, memory, intelligence, motivation, emotion, states of consciousness, personality, health and stress.

    2.0 Credit Units
    34.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Correspondence-Structured Time


    Year 2 - Semester 4B

  • PRAC 262  Health Information Practicum 2
  • Your selected work experience will take place in agencies throughout Saskatchewan. Your practical experience will help you acquire experience working in the health information field using the skills you have acquired over the two years at SIAST. You will develop your professional skills by promoting both the health information profession and program.

    19.0 Credit Units
    280.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Work Experience - Group, Online/Blackboard

    Prerequisites:
    CLIN 288 Minimum Grade of P and COSC 262 Minimum Grade of 60 and HINF 260 Minimum Grade of 60 and HINF 262 Minimum Grade of 60 and HINF 263 Minimum Grade of 60 and HINF 264 Minimum Grade of 60 and HINF 265 Minimum Grade of 60 and PRAC 165 Minimum Grade of P and STAT 260 Minimum Grade of 60 and PSYC 160 Minimum Grade of 60



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