Just Breathe
Archive for March, 2010
Choosing the HIM Career Path
Mar 31st
I’m sure like most people, I had no idea HIM existed until I discovered while trying to desperately find a major. Not that I turned to it as a last resort. I knew I wanted to work in the health care industry, I just had no desire to be a doctor, nurse, or other clinician. I always enjoyed working with computers and problem solving. Then along came Health Information Management. A combination of health care, computers, and problem solving.
What exactly is HIM all about? Essentially, HIM is the study of medical record science. Back in the day, HIM was centered in the medical record department in Hospitals. Clerks filing paper and keeping track of patients medical records. Nowadays, HIM was evolved to encompass medical coding and reimbursement, management of a hybrid medical record (both paper and electronic), and the knowledge of ever increasing technology advances. My career has always been focused on the electronic side of the medical record. In my current position, I’m akin to a liaison between my Coding and Reimbursement Department and the IT department. I understand computers and technology and can speak the language.
HIM classes involve coding, medical sciences (study of anatomy and disease), documentation, and More >
Health Care Reform – Why I’m Tired of Everyone
Mar 30th
Health care in this country is in trouble. Between soaring costs and costly mistakes, it’s a wonder anyone makes it to their doctor anymore. As someone who works in the health care industry, albeit not in a clinical capacity, I see day in and day out the many reasons for health care reform. Insurance companies charge expensive premiums to only fight you on coverage. Doctors are caught between caring for their patients and filling out endless reams of paperwork. Patients have no clue how to handle their medical bills or deal with the insurance companies.
With the latest health reform legislation, I see good and I see bad. But what I find most irritating, is not one politician is into telling the truth. I feel the republicans are more interested in lying and coming up with the most absurd comment for the day than actually helping the American people. Being the party of “No” is not helping anyone. We need jobs, health care, and more funding for education. We don’t need politicians blocking every bill just because they can.
I’m frustrated with the democrats, as well, and I consider myself one. I feel they are more interested in gloating and trying to More >