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Building Skills to Thrive

AHIMA is proud to announce the launch of six innovative microcredentials specifically designed for health information (HI) professionals. The first of their kind in the HI field, AHIMA Microcredentials are a flexible, time-efficient, and cost-effective solution for individuals seeking to enhance their skills and gain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving health care industry.

As skills-based hiring continues to gain momentum across industries, employers are increasingly prioritizing candidates with specialized expertise. According to a Coursera survey of 5,000 students and employers across 11 countries, 77% of employers already utilize or explore skills-based hiring practices, and 97% are considering it.

Recognizing this shift in health care and the increasing importance of HI integrity, AHIMA has developed microcredentials for high-demand skill sets demonstrating the HI professional’s proficiency in specialized areas, commitment to skills-based competency, and understanding of industry priorities.

"The launch of AHIMA Microcredentials is a game changer for the HI profession," says AHIMA Board Secretary Thea Campbell, MBA, RHIA. "These specialized credentials provide a unique pathway for individuals to validate their skills, stand out in a competitive job market, and accelerate their career growth. The focus on skills-based hiring aligns perfectly with the evolving needs of employers and offers professionals the opportunity to continually upskill and expand their knowledge."

AHIMA is currently offering the following six AHIMA Microcredentials and will deploy more in the coming months:

• Clinical Documentation Integrity Outpatient;
• Release of Information;
• Risk Adjustment Coding;
• Auditing: Inpatient Coding;
• Auditing: Outpatient Coding; and
• Patient Identification and Matching.

AHIMA harnessed the wealth of knowledge held by credentialed professionals in developing these microcredentials. To ensure its microcredentials are relevant, practical, and impactful and address the emerging challenges and skills demanded in today's health care landscape, AHIMA collaborated with approximately 30 credentialed HI professionals who provided valuable insights and industry-specific perspectives.

"I am honored to have partnered with AHIMA and a talented group of HI professionals in developing microcredentials for the profession,” says AHIMA member Monica M. Watson, RHIA, CPC, CCS, CCS-P, CPMA, CIC, CRC, CDEO, RAP. “As the health care landscape continues to change and evolve, HI professionals play an increasingly expanding role. I applaud AHIMA for its commitment to being at the forefront, offering professionally differentiating credentials to enhance our expertise and attract new talent to the HI profession."

— Source: AHIMA