Healthcare administration is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by demographic and technological factors. With the expansion of the field comes a demand for individuals to fill healthcare administration jobs.
To be prepared to succeed in those roles, interested candidates must build up their healthcare administration expertise. Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) offers an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Administration program that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in health information management.
What Is Driving Job Growth in Healthcare Administration?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 28% increase in employment for medical and health services managers through 2032, resulting in one of the fastest-growing occupation categories in the country. Several key factors are contributing to the surge in healthcare administration job opportunities. First, the aging Baby Boomer population is increasing the need for healthcare services. People typically require more medical care as they age, creating a demand for more healthcare facilities and services. This demographic shift necessitates a corresponding increase in healthcare administrators who can manage these growing demands effectively.
Second, integrating technology in healthcare has revolutionized how patient information is stored, accessed and managed. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) has become nearly universal, requiring healthcare facilities to employ administrators who are not only familiar with traditional management roles but also adept at navigating complex health information systems. Managing and analyzing vast amounts of data has become essential for improving patient outcomes, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
What Is Health Information Management?
Health information management (HIM) is the practice of acquiring, analyzing and protecting both traditional and digital medical information that is vital to providing quality patient care. It is a crucial aspect of modern healthcare, ensuring patient information is accurate, accessible and secure.
HIM professionals manage and ensure the integrity, confidentiality and availability of healthcare data. They play a pivotal role in maintaining the quality and accuracy of medical records, facilitating efficient healthcare delivery and supporting decision-making processes. Health information management encompasses several key functions, including:
- Medical records management. Ensure patient records are accurate, up-to-date and easily accessible to authorized personnel.
- Data management. Oversee the collection, storage and retrieval of healthcare data, including patient information, treatment histories and outcomes.
- Data analysis. Use data analytics tools to interpret and leverage healthcare data for improving patient care, optimizing operations and identifying trends.
- Health information technology (HIT). Implement and manage electronic health systems, including EHRs, to streamline workflows and enhance data accessibility.
- Informatics. Apply informatics principles to manage healthcare data and information systems, supporting clinical and administrative decision-making.
Become a HIM Expert With TAMIU’s Online MBA in Healthcare Administration Program
The online MBA in Healthcare Administration program at TAMIU focuses on various aspects of healthcare IT integration, applications and ethical considerations — preparing graduates to become leaders in the rapidly evolving field of healthcare administration. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to address the critical areas of health information management. Some of the key learning outcomes include:
- Healthcare IT integration. Understand the implementation and management of electronic health systems and their role in improving patient care and operational efficiency.
- Data analysis and management. Develop the ability to analyze healthcare data to inform decision-making, optimize resources and enhance patient outcomes.
- Ethical and legal considerations. Gain insight into the ethical and legal issues surrounding health information management, including patient privacy, data security and regulatory compliance.
- Strategic leadership. Build leadership skills to manage healthcare organizations effectively, focusing on strategic planning, policy development and change management.
- Informatics systems. Learn to apply informatics principles to manage and analyze healthcare data, supporting clinical and administrative functions.
By enrolling in TAMIU’s online MBA in Healthcare Administration program, students can become proficient in health information management and position themselves for success in a rapidly growing field.
Shaping the Future of Healthcare Administration
The impressive growth in healthcare administration jobs highlights the critical role of health information management in the healthcare industry. As the aging population drives the demand for more complex healthcare services, and the adoption of EHRs necessitates skilled professionals in health information technology, the need for knowledgeable healthcare administrators continues to rise.
By gaining expertise in health information management, TAMIU graduates can play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare administration, ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of quality patient care.
Learn more about TAMIU’s online MBA in Healthcare Administration program.
