How to Become A Health Information Manager

Steps to Become a Health Information Manager

Step 1: Complete a HIMAA-accredited Bachelor of Health Information Management

Enrol in a Bachelor of Health Information Management at a HIMAA-accredited university. La Trobe University offers this degree in three years full-time or part-time. The program covers health data management, medical coding, clinical informatics and health law. On graduation, you qualify for full HIMAA membership and can enter the profession.

Step 2: Consider the Master of Health Information Management if You Already Have a Degree

If you already have a bachelor degree in another field, consider the Master of Health Information Management. La Trobe University offers this two-year full-time program. It covers the same core skills as the bachelor pathway. Completion also qualifies you for HIMAA professional membership.

Step 3: Join HIMAA as a Student Member During Your Studies

Apply for HIMAA student membership as soon as you start your degree. It gives you access to industry events, mentoring and a peer network before you graduate. State branches run local events that connect you with Health Information Managers across Australia.

Step 4: Complete Your Work Placement and Apply for Professional Membership

Your degree includes a supervised work placement in a healthcare setting. This practical experience is key for learning how real-world health data systems work. After graduating, apply for HIMAA professional membership to join Australia’s peak body for the field.

Step 5: Pursue HIMAA Credentialing to Advance Your Career

Once employed, apply for HIMAA credentialing to show your skills are current. Successful applicants earn the post-nominals CHIM (Certified Health Information Manager) or CHIP (Certified Health Information Professional). This credential can open doors to senior and specialist roles.

Health Information Managers plan, build and run the data systems that keep Australian healthcare working. Each day, they design and update medical record forms and oversee central records systems. They check that all data meets legal and ethical rules. They train staff, audit records and work with IT teams. The role also covers meeting Privacy Act rules, handling patient requests and working on digital health projects.

Health Information Managers keep Australian healthcare running by managing the data and records systems that clinical and administrative staff rely on. They combine technical skills with a deep understanding of privacy law and clinical workflows.

• Designs and revises medical record forms to meet current standards and regulations
• Manages the organisation’s central health records system for accuracy and security
• Implements and maintains electronic health record (EHR) systems
• Ensures compliance with the Privacy Act and the Australian Privacy Principles
• Conducts audits of health information systems and patient records
• Trains clinical and administrative staff on data management best practice
• Analyses health data to support quality improvement and planning
• Develops policies for managing, storing and sharing health information
• Manages patient information requests in line with privacy legislation
• Works with IT teams and clinical staff on digital health projects

• Health information systems management
• Medical coding (ICD-10-AM)
• Electronic health records (EHR) administration
• Data analysis and reporting
• Compliance with the Privacy Act and health regulations
• Attention to detail
• Organisational and project management skills
• Written and verbal communication
• Leadership and team management
• Policy development and implementation
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Knowledge of clinical workflows and healthcare settings
• Adaptability to new health technologies
• Stakeholder engagement across clinical and non-clinical teams
• Commitment to ongoing professional development