Program Overview
Graduates will champion patient privacy, build skills in informatics, clinical coding, and analytics, and enter a profession with many career options. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical experience through industry placements and real-world case studies. Graduates will be equipped with the ability to utilize digital health technologies and contribute to data-driven decision making in the healthcare sector.
Program Outline
- To prepare graduates for a career in health information management, with a diverse range of career options available.
- To instill a strong foundation in informatics, clinical coding, and analytics, allowing graduates to contribute to the efficient and effective delivery of healthcare services.
Description:
The Bachelor of Health Information Management is a three-year program offered at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Bendigo, Sydney, and online. It is designed to meet the growing demand for qualified health information professionals in Australia and internationally. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical experience through industry placements and real-world case studies. Graduates will be equipped with the ability to utilize digital health technologies and contribute to data-driven decision making in the healthcare sector.
- Clinical coding and classification systems
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Health informatics and information systems
- Health policy and ethics
- Research methods and statistics
- Communication and interpersonal skills
Structure:
The program consists of 24 subjects, typically completed over six semesters. There is a mix of core and elective subjects, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career aspirations.
Course Schedule:
- Semester 1: Introduction to Health Information Management, Health Informatics, Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology
- Semester 2: Health Data Analysis, Clinical Coding Fundamentals, Healthcare Systems, Introduction to Research Methods
- Semester 4: Health Information Management Practice, Data Visualization, Research Methods in Health, Health Informatics Applications
- Semester 5: Health Information Leadership, Clinical Data Analytics, Research Project, Elective
Health Data Analysis:
Develops skills in data analysis and interpretation using statistical software and methods.
Clinical Coding Fundamentals:
Introduces clinical coding systems and classification systems, including ICD-10 and SNOMED CT.
Statistics for Health Professionals:
Develops understanding of statistical methods applied to health data analysis and interpretation.
Health Information Management Practice:
Provides practical experience applying health information management principles in a simulated or real-world setting.
Data Visualization:
Develops skills in creating clear and informative visualizations to communicate health data effectively.
Research Methods in Health:
Further explores quantitative and qualitative research methods and their application in the health information management field.
Health Informatics Applications:
Focuses on the practical application of health informatics tools and technologies in managing health information data.
Health Information Leadership:
Develops leadership skills and knowledge, preparing graduates to take on supervisory or management roles in health information management teams.
Clinical Data Analytics:
Deepens proficiency in health data analytics, including utilizing advanced statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms.
Research Project:
Students undertake an independent research project on a topic related to health information management with faculty guidance.
Professional Development in Health Information Management:
Prepares graduates for entry into the workforce with career planning, resume writing, and interview skills development.
Health Policy and Ethics:
Explores the ethical and legal considerations of health information management, including privacy, data security, and patient rights.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
- Written assignments
- Practical assessments
- Presentations
- Case studies
- Research projects
- Analytical skills
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking
- Ethical awareness
- Problem-solving skills
- Research skills
- Teamwork abilities
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Workshops
- Tutorials
- Practical exercises
- Group projects
- Simulations
- Guest lectures
- Online learning
Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced academic staff with expertise in health information management, informatics, clinical coding, and health policy. Faculty members are actively involved in research and consulting, bringing real-world insights to the classroom.
Unique Approaches:
The program utilizes a blend of traditional and innovative teaching methods, including simulations, case studies, and guest lectures from industry professionals. Students have the opportunity to participate in a research project, allowing them to apply their learning to real-world problems. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and promotes responsible data management practices.
- Clinical coder
- Data analyst
- Health informaticist
- Privacy officer
- Quality improvement specialist
- Healthcare consultant
- Research coordinator
Employment Opportunities:
Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Information Management are highly sought after in hospitals, clinics, government agencies, private health insurance companies, and other healthcare settings. The program prepares students for diverse career paths, offering excellent employment prospects in a rapidly growing field.
Career Outcomes:
Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Information Management have reported high levels of satisfaction with their careers, enjoying competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development.
Other
The Bachelor of Health Information Management is open to domestic and international students. The program is ranked in the top 400 in health management globally by the Financial Times 2021 Business School Global Ranking