How to become a health information manager

Pathways to this career

1. Complete an undergraduate degree in science or health science, majoring in health information management.

2. If you've studied an undergraduate degree in a similar field or have other recognised qualifications, you may be able to qualify as a health information manager by completing a relevant postgraduate degree.

3. Join recognised industry associations and keep on top of advancements and legalities in the industry.

What does a health information manager do?

Health information managers develop, manage and maintain files, records and information processing systems and databases for healthcare facilities. They must have strong organisational and implementation abilities and train others in how to operate and maintain information systems.

Duties and tasks

• Advance new methods for digital record keeping and classification.

• Train and help users navigate systems.

• Apply security to protect classified information and control access.

• Design, implement and modify medical records and forms.

• Develop and manage health facilities' central records systems and databases, including cataloguing, coding and classification.

• Evaluate organisational needs of record keeping, and monitor and optimise systems.

• Implement procedures for archiving data and create classification systems, indexes and guides for inputting information.

• Interpret a variety of records and preserve or archive them in files and databases for administrative, legal and patient use.

Industry bodies

• Health Information Management Association of Australia(HIMAA)

• The Records and Information Management Professionals Australasia (RIM)

Related jobs

• Archive executive

• Archivist

• Information officer

• Librarian

• Records officer

• Research officer

Step up your career with these resources

Juggling family, work and study: how online uni enables career development for mums

Between raising children, working full-time, and supporting her family, Bernis’ life was already full. But quietly persisting in the back of her mind was her desire to grow professionally and prioritise career development.

Leadership styles in nursing: which is best for you?

If you’re a nurse who’s keen to lead a team one day, what will your leadership approach be? Here are six common leadership styles you might like to try on for size.

5 qualities that make you a leader vs a manager

While managers dole out tasks, leaders take things a step further by inspiring everyone around them. Discover how you can become this kind of leader, no matter where you work.

Chemist vs pharmacist: Which career is right for me?

One focuses on helping people manage their illness with medication. The other, on studying things at a molecular level. Find out more and never confuse the two again.