American Health Information Management Association

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  Logo of the American Health Information Management Association

American Health Information Management Association

The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is a professional organization dedicated to the field of health information management (HIM). AHIMA is committed to advancing the HIM profession through education, certification, advocacy, and collaboration with other healthcare organizations.

History

AHIMA was founded in 1928 as the Association of Record Librarians of North America (ARLNA). The organization was established to improve the standards of clinical records in hospitals and other medical institutions. Over the years, the association underwent several name changes, reflecting the evolving nature of the profession and its expanding scope. In 1991, it adopted its current name, the American Health Information Management Association, to better represent its focus on health information management.

Mission and Vision

AHIMA's mission is to "empower people to impact health" by advancing the professional practice and standards of health information management. The organization envisions a world where trusted information transforms health and healthcare by connecting people, systems, and ideas.

Membership

AHIMA offers membership to individuals involved in the health information management field, including health information technicians, health information administrators, coding specialists, and data analysts. Members benefit from access to professional development resources, networking opportunities, and industry updates.

Education and Certification

AHIMA provides a variety of educational programs and certifications to support the professional development of its members. These include:

• Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT)
• Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA)
• Certified Coding Associate (CCA)
• Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
• Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA)

These certifications are recognized as standards of excellence in the HIM field and are designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals.

Advocacy and Policy

AHIMA actively engages in advocacy efforts to influence health information policy at the national and state levels. The organization works to ensure that health information management professionals have a voice in the development of policies that impact the management and use of health information.

Related Pages

• Health information management
• Medical coding
• Electronic health record
• Health informatics