How to Obtain a Health Information Technology Certificate

The health information technology area is growing fast; because of that, many people are looking for ways to obtain a health information technology (also known as "health informatics") certificate. This certificate covers many areas concerning a patient's health, such as a patient's past medical exam reports, symptoms and medical history, doctors' diagnoses, laboratory and X-ray results and a list of past treatment plans. In sum, those employed in the health information technology area are responsible for a patient's medical records. Several online schools that offer this certificate are University of Phoenix, Walden University and Capella University.

Instructions

• 1

  Contact a health care professional about this career field. Ask about the requirements needed to prepare for employment. Research programs and compare their tuition costs, benefits, courses available, course prerequisites and job titles. Some online sites offer tours and samples of courses that you can review, to see if the course material is to your liking, and introduce you to the school's policies and procedures.

• 2

  Fill out an application form and pay the course fee. Take time to fill out the form clearly and be accurate and honest with all your answers. A typical application form contains the following required information: name, address, phone number, email address, previous colleges and universities attended if any, what program or programs you're applying for, and a short essay. Also include questions you might have about the program, as well as your transcripts.

• 3

  Write your letter of application and include your experience in this field, why you're interested in this profession, how and why you expect this program to help you meet your personal and professional goals and your decision on completing the program. Fill out your resume and keep it clear, accurate and neat. Don't exaggerate, but put down all of your experience (educational and professional). In addition, add any prerequisite courses you have taken or plan on taking.

• 4

  Send your transcripts from schools attended, to your online college. Also include transcripts from any college or university where you have taken prerequisite courses.

• 5

  Pay your tuition immediately upon approval and enrollment. You'll receive written notification of acceptance from the school. You'll then be sent registration information for your first-term courses. You'll then be offered an opportunity to register for the class.