The Profession

The overall employment outlook for an RHIA is excellent. As patient records evolve toward computerization, and as more entities such as third-party payers require sophisticated health data, registered health administrators benefit from a wide selection of jobs.

The registered health information administrator (RHIA) manages health record/health information services, designs patient information systems, helps determine the flow of the medical information, what equipment will be purchased, and the staffing level necessary to provide the services required. The RHIA also plays an important role in quality improvement activities and contributes to the financial viability of an organization. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities are expected to grow much faster than average for all occupations for the next several years. More information about the field of health information management can be obtained from the website of the American Health Information Management Association at www.ahima.org.