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?? Frequently Asked Questions ??

The following are some frequently asked questions about the Health Information Systems (HIS) programs.

• What programs are available? 
  Health Information Systems offers the following program options in health information technology and medical transcription.
  • Health Information Technology - Associates of  Applied Science
  • Documentation Coding Specialist - Certificate of Completion
  • Coding Specialist - Certificate of Completion
  • Health Information Specialist - Certificate of Completion
  • Specialty Medical Transcriptionist - Certificate of Completion
  • General Transcriptionist - Certificate of Completion
      
• What are the prerequisites for admission? 
  Prerequisites for admission to any of the Health Information Systems program include the following:
  • 12th grade reading, writing, and math (math for AAS only)
  • HITT 1305 Medical Terminology
  • BIOL 2404 Anatomy and Physiology
  • Allied Health Application Packet
     
• How much does the program cost? 
  Costs will vary with each program option and number of semester hours enrolled.  Students can expect costs to include tuition, enrollment/other fees, textbooks, software (for some courses), and appropriate supplies.  Cost per semester generally range between approximately  $500.00 to $700.00 per semester.
    
• How long is the program? 
  Program length will vary with each program option.  Most certificate program options vary from one to four semesters.  Associate Degree program options vary from four to five semesters. 
    
• Are classes available in the evenings, weekends, or on the internet? 
  All HIS courses are delivered via the internet.  Students access and submit assignments utilizing their own workstation and internet service.  Faculty are available for assistance via phone, email, online interactive sessions, and on campus.  Other on-campus resources are available for student assistance.
    
• Do I have to attend classes full time? 
  Students may complete any program option on a full time or part time basis.  Courses within each program option are offered on a regularly scheduled, sequenced basis.  Students should consult with an HIS advisor for assistance with scheduling whether attending on a full or part-time basis.
    
• When can I start classes?  
  Most HIS program options begin each Fall.  However, application for admission for any HIS program are accepted throughout the year, and prerequisite and program courses are available each semester.  Students should consult with an HIS advisor for assistance.
    
• How can I get enrolled?  
  Enrollment in any HIS program courses requires an application for admission and completion of prerequisite courses.  Students may enroll for prerequisite and academic courses upon meeting admission requirements (see Admission Requirements page).  Enrollment procedures are available with printed schedule of courses, online at SPC web site, and through the counseling office and department advisors.  It is recommended interested students contact the Allied Health Student Advisor in Residence for enrollment and application assistance.
    
• What kind of jobs are available?   Jobs are available in various settings, including physician offices, hospitals, insurance companies, and even at home.  Additional information on job type availability can be found through the professional organization site for each HIS career field (see Professional Organization page).
    
• Can I work from home with this job?   Employment is available in the home setting for various health information positions.  In particular, medical transcription, coding, and consulting positions are current popular options.  Additional information on home employment options can be found through the professional organization site for each HIS career field (see Professional Organization page).
    
• What is average salary for this job?   Salaries will vary with each HIS career field, location facility, and various other factors.  Information on salary expectations is available through the professional organization site for each HIS career field (see Professional Organization page).
    
• Do you offer the certification or licensure examination for this field?   Credentialing examinations are administered by the respective professional organization for each of the various HIS careers.  Completion of HIS program options prepare students for completion of credentialing examination but do not award licensure or certification credentials.
    
  Completion of the HITT Associate Degree program option successfully provides for student eligibility to apply for and write the accreditation examination to become a Registered Health Information Technician.
    
  Completion of HIS certificate program options in coding prepare students for completion of credentialing examination to become a Certified Coding Specialist or a Certified Coding Specialist-Physician Based.
    
  Completion of HIS certificate program options in medical transcription prepare students for completion of credentialing examination to become a Registered Medical Transcriptionist or a Certified Medical Transcriptionist.