SAN JUAN COLLEGE - Health Information Technology Student Handbook Effective Fall 2020
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SAN JUAN COLLEGE
Health Information Technology
Student Handbook
1
Effective Fall 2020TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome .............................................................................................................................3
Introduction.........................................................................................................................4
Faculty and Staff.................................................................................................................4
Program Contact Information.............................................................................................5
Program Mission and Vision..............................................................................................5
Program Accreditation Status............................................................................................5
Description of the Programs..............................................................................................6
Program Outcomes.............................................................................................................7
HIT/MCB Program Admission Requirements...................................................................8
Program Policies and Procedures...................................................................................9
Synopsis of Curriculum (HIT)...........................................................................................13
Synopsis of Curriculum (MCB)........................................................................................14
Professional Practice Experiences.................................................................................15
HIM Associate Degree Entry Level Competencies........................................................16
Health Information Technology Programs Technical and Professional......................16
Skills and Standards........................................................................................................18
AHIMA Code of Ethics......................................................................................................22
Frequently Asked Questions...........................................................................................25
General Information..........................................................................................................27
Appendix I – Computer Skills Necessary to be Effective in Online Learning.............28
Appendix II – Sample Program Plans.............................................................................29
Acknowledgement and Consent Form...........................................................................30
2WELCOME
Dear New HIT Student
Congratulations on your acceptance into the HIT Program at San Juan College. You
should be proud of your accomplishments. You have satisfied all of the prerequisites and
are entering the professional phase of your education. You are on your way to an exciting
career as a HIT professional.
This Student Handbook and the San Juan College Academic Catalog contain policies and
procedures pertinent to the HIT Programs and the college. This handbook is meant to
supplement the policies of San Juan College and has been developed in accordance with
CAHIIM accreditation standards. Updates will be made as needed. You are responsible to
adhere to these policies and any updates. Keep this handbook readily available for your
reference.
On behalf of the faculty and staff in the HIT department, it is with great pleasure that I
welcome you to the HIT Program at San Juan College. Please let us know if there is
anything that we can do to help make this a successful experience for you.
Sincerely,
Deb Honstad, EdD, RHIA
San Juan College
Program Director
3INTRODUCTION
This handbook has been prepared to supplement the information in the San Juan College
Academic Catalog. Its purpose is to educate you about the HIT Program and its policies
and procedures. This handbook will give you an understanding of what is expected of all
students in the Health Information Technology Programs.
FACULTY AND STAFF
Deb Honstad, EdD, RHIA, Program Director, Professor
Phone – (505) 566-3563
Email – honstadd@sanjuancollege.edu
EdD in Leadership, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, 2018
MA in Organizational Management, Concordia University Saint Paul, 2007
BA in Health Information Management, College of St. Scholastica, 2001
Tina Bruce, MHIM, RHIA, CCS, CDIP, Assistant Professor
Phone – (505) 566-3823
Email – brucet@sanjuancollege.edu
MS in Health Information Management, College of St. Scholastica, 2016
BS in Health Information Management, Louisiana Tech University, 2009
AHIMA Approved ICD-10 Trainer
Angie Campbell, MSHI, RHIA, Instructor
Phone – (505) 566-3078
Email – campbella@sanjuancollege.edu
MS in Healthcare Informatics, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, 2018
BS in Health Information Administration, Stephens College, 2011
BA in General Studies, Eastern Illinois University, 2010
Medical Coding Specialist Certificate, Lake Land College, 2010
AAS in Liberal Arts, Lake Land College, 2009
AHIMA Approved ICD-10 Trainer
Melody Conrad, Administrative Assistant
Phone – (505) 566-3597
Email – conradm@sanjuancollege.edu
4PROGRAM CONTACT INFORMATION
Location – Health Sciences Center, Room 3409
Phone – (505) 566-3597
Fax – (505) 566-3820
Email – hitp@sanjuancollege.edu
Homepage – http://www.sanjuancollege.edu/hit
PROGRAM MISSION AND VISION
Mission
To help satisfy the needs of the health care community by preparing HIT professionals by
means of an online learning program and to successfully contribute in a dynamic work
environment.
Vision
To be the model of online HIT education by providing a broad spectrum of strategic courses
employing the latest technology to advance our curriculum and developing the critical
thinking skills of our students.
PROGRAM ACCREDITATION STATUS
The Health Information Management accreditor of San Juan College is the Commission on
Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management (CAHIIM). The College’s
accreditation for associate degree in Health Information Management has been reaffirmed
through 2020-2021.
Students who complete the AAS in Health Information Technology (HIT) will be eligible to
take the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Registered Heath
Information Technician (RHIT) exam.
5DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAMS
The San Juan College HIT Department offers programs designed to meet the increasing
demands for well-educated and professionally trained Health Information Technicians in
health care agencies such as managed care organizations, ambulatory clinics, hospitals,
physician and dental practices, long term care facilities, cancer centers, State Health
Departments, and other organizations concerned with health information such as large
insurance agencies, regional health information organizations, and regulatory agencies.
The Associate Degree, Health Information Technology Program at San Juan College is
accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information
Management Education (CAHIIM). Students who complete the A.A.S. in Health
Information Technology (HIT) will be eligible to take the AHIMA Registered Heath
Information Technician (RHIT) exam.
The Health Information Technology Program at San Juan College includes two courses
that make up the Revenue Management (RM) track of the American Health Information
Management Association’s (AHIMA's) 2018 Curriculum. The program anticipates offering
the Data Management (DM) track option for students beginning in 2021-2022.
The HIT Programs are selective majors. Specific requirements must be met in order to
declare a Health Information Technology or Medical Insurance Coder/Biller major. For
additional information contact the Health Information Technology Department.
A limited number of students will be admitted each semester. Acceptance to the college is
granted to most applicants and does not constitute nor guarantee admission to the HIT
Programs. Taking prerequisite courses for the HIT Programs does not guarantee
admission to the programs; enrollment is limited.
6PROGRAM OUTCOMES
HIT Program Level Outcomes
1. Apply policies, regulations, and standards to the management of information to
achieve data integrity. (Domain I)
2. Apply privacy and security strategies and compliance requirements to protect health
information. (Domain II)
3. Apply health informatics and data analytics concepts to the management of health
information. (Domain III)
4. Apply diagnostic and procedural codes and groupings in accordance with official
guidelines. (Domain IV)
5. Apply regulatory requirements and reimbursement methodologies as part of revenue
cycle management. (Domain IV)
6. Apply ethical practices, policy, and legal processes impacting health information to
ensure compliance with external forces. (Domain V)
7. Utilize appropriate management and leadership principles, strategies, and
performance improvement techniques to effectively manage human, physical, and
financial resources. (Domain VI)
RM Track Outcomes
1. Evaluate diagnosis and procedure codes and groupings according to official
guidelines. (Domain IV RM)
2. Evaluate compliance with revenue cycle processes, regulatory requirements, and
reimbursement methodologies. (Domain IV RM)
MCB Program Level Outcomes
1. Apply policies, regulations, and standards to the management of information to
achieve data integrity
2. Apply privacy and security strategies and compliance requirements to protect health
information
3. Apply diagnostic and procedural codes and groupings in accordance with official
guidelines
4. Apply regulatory requirements and reimbursement methodologies as part of revenue
cycle management
5. Apply ethical practices, policy, and legal processes impacting health information to
ensure compliance with external forces
7HIT/MCB PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility:
• All prerequisite courses completed. Must earn a “C” or higher in each course.
• Achieved a minimum college cumulative GPA of 2.75.
• Apply to San Juan College if not a San Juan College student and complete enrollment
process as a San Juan College student.
• Submitted a completed HIT or MCB Program application. A new application is
required if reapplying.
It is expected that students applying to the HIT Programs have solid computer skills.
Examples of the types of skills required to successfully complete the online programs can be
found in Appendix I. If you feel that you do not have the necessary skills, please contact the
HIT Program office to discuss ways to gain the skills needed to work effectively in the online
environment.
Students who are admitted to the program will be contacted by the HIT Office. Students must
meet via telephone or email with a program advisor to develop a Program Plan. The program
advisor will also assist students with registration for classes. Students who are not admitted
to the program will be sent a letter from the HIT Office. Students may reapply the following
semester; however, in order to be reconsidered for admission a new application must be
submitted. It is recommended that you speak to the HIT Program Director prior to reapplying.
All courses are offered online. Students must have access to a computer and the Internet
(DSL or cable recommended). Once admitted to the program, all coursework for the AAS
degree program must be completed within 3 years; all coursework for the certificate program
must be completed within 2 years. Students must earn a “C” or higher in all courses. Courses
may be repeated once, for a total of two attempts. A minimum GPA of 2.75 must be
maintained throughout the student’s time in the program. All HITP coursework must be
current within 5 years at the time of graduation.
Failure to meet these current program requirements will result in the student being dropped
from the Program.
Students who have been dismissed from the program may not take core HITP courses until
they have been readmitted to the program.
8PROGRAM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
**All students must adhere to the policies and procedures of the HIT Program, as
well as the policies and procedures of San Juan
College(http://catalog.sanjuancollege.edu/)
Maximum Time to Complete the Programs
Students must complete the HIT degree program within 3 academic years (Coding
certificate program within 2 academic years). This policy is in place to ensure that students
graduate from the Programs with current knowledge and skills and are able to successfully
pass the RHIT or CCA credential exam and enter the professional field. You must work
closely with your advisor to ensure that you are on track to complete the program within
these time limits. Sample Program Plans can be found in Appendix II of this handbook.
Grading Scale
92-100 .......................A
84-91..........................B
76-83..........................C
68-75..........................D
67 and below..............F
* Only applies to HITP courses, other courses’ grading scales may vary
Grade Requirements
Students in the Health Information Technology Programs must pass all courses with a C
(76%) or better. Courses may be repeated once, for a total of two attempts. If a student
withdraws from a course and earns a “W,” this constitutes one of their two attempts. A
minimum GPA of 2.75 must be maintained throughout the student’s time in the program.
Academic Honesty
San Juan College expects all students to adhere to the Academic Honesty Rules. These
are the official guidelines for all classes at San Juan College (July 2006).
9Late Work
Late work is subject to a reduction in credit. Late work policies will vary by course and
instructor. Policies will be clearly stated in course materials (i.e. syllabus). Contact your
instructor for more information on the policy in affect for your course.
Transfer of Credits
Transfer of credits will only be considered if the credits were taken with another CAHIIM
accredited program. Courses must adhere to all other program requirements. The final
decision whether or not to accept HITP courses for transfer credit will be made by the
Program Director. A course description and syllabus may be requested to help determine
acceptance of courses.
Experiential Learning
Credits will not be granted for experiential learning or work experience. However, you can
do credit by exam, but only up to five courses or 15 credits. Students are responsible for
both the tuition and fees for the course(s) being challenged as well as any additional fees
that are not included in the regular tuition charged.
AHIMA Membership
A $49.00 fee will be assessed in conjunction with HITP120 which pays for the student’s
membership in the American Health Information Management Association. This fee is
nonrefundable. All students in HITP120 will sign up for student membership. Students will
work with the HITP120 instructor, as appropriate, and the HIT Program office to sign up for
student membership.
It is the student’s responsibility to maintain (renew) this membership for the duration of his
or her time in the program. Please send a copy of your membership card to the HIT
Program office each year for your file. Current AHIMA membership is required for all
students. Students who allow their membership to lapse will be responsible for the full
amount of the RHIT Exam.
10RHIT Certification Exam (HIT students)
A $229.00 fee will be assessed in conjunction with HITP270 which pays for the student’s
application fee for the RHIT exam. This fee is nonrefundable. Students will work with the
HITP270 instructor and the HIT Program office to register for the RHIT certification exam.
Means of Communication
All communication must be submitted through your official San Juan College student email
account. You can access this email account from the SJC Portal. From the SJC Portal, you
can also register for classes, view your schedule, view your financial aid, review your
academic plan, and much more.
Drop for Non-Attendance
Students will be dropped from classes based on faculty reporting non-
attendance. Financial Aid will not be awarded for classes that are dropped for non-
attendance. Being dropped and losing Financial Aid does not negate your financial
obligation to pay for these classes. You will be required to pay any tuition penalty owed
based on the institution's fee schedule. Students who do not attend and do not wish to incur
any financial liability must drop classes before they begin. This action is being taken to
remain in compliance with Federal Financial Aid Regulations. Should you have any
questions, please contact Enrollment Services or Financial Aid. Remember, if you do not
plan to attend, please drop your classes before the first day of class.
Dress Code
Students are considered professional people representing the College and the health
information management profession.
When the class or an individual student is visiting a health care facility as a representative
of the Health Information Technology Program, he/she must dress appropriately.
Appropriate attire for field trips, clinical visits and professional practice experiences is as
follows:
11• Visible body piercing is limited to two earrings per ear. All other body piercing
will not be visible, including tongue piercing.
• Hats will not be allowed on educational outings or in the clinical setting.
• Students will contain mouth and body odor by using antiperspirant and
mouthwash/gum and attending to daily personal hygiene.
• Distracting hairdos such as Mohawks, hair dyed unnatural colors, etc. are not
considered professional for the student enrolled in the San Juan College HIT
Program.
• Clothing must not be torn, tattered, display pictures or words related to
vulgarities or controlled substances, show the stomach/low back area, or
reveal the buttocks area.
• All body art must be covered on educational outings and in the clinical setting.
• Students are required to wear appropriate undergarments on educational
outings and in the clinical setting.
• Sleeveless shirts or tank tops should not be worn unless covered with another
shirt.
• Denim garments of any type should not be worn.
• Casual or dress shoes should be worn. Sport shoes or sneakers are not
permitted.
Students not following the HIT Program dress code will be at risk for dismissal from the
program
.
12SYNOPSIS OF CURRICULUM (HIT)
Prerequisites Credits
HITP 110 Medical Terminology 3
HITP 116 Computerized Business Applications 3
General Education
Requirements *Must be completed as part of prerequisites Credits
FYEX 1110 First-Year Seminar 3
ENGL 1110 OR Composition I OR 3
ENGL 1210 Technical Composition 3
ENGL 2210 OR Professional & Technical Communication OR 3
ENGL 1110 Composition II Composition 3
MATH 1350 Introduction to Statistics 4
BIOL 1130 Introductory Anatomy/Physiology Non-Major 3
BIOL 1130L Introductory Anatomy/Physiology Lab Non-Major 1
PSYC 1100 Introduction to Psychology 3
Total Prerequisites and General Education Credits 26
Core Curriculum Credits
HITP 120 Introduction to Health Info Technology 3
HITP 130 Pathophysiology and Pharmacology 3
HITP 150 Legal & Ethical Issues in HIT 3
HITP 170 Basic Principles of CPT-4 & HCPCS Coding 3
HITP 182 Introduction to Data Management 3
HITP 202 Basic Principles of ICD-10-CM ICD-10-PCS 3
HITP 212 Advanced Coding and Rev Cycle Mgmt (RM) 3
HITP 230 Healthcare Reimbursement Methodologies 3
HITP 240 Health Statistics & Quality Improvement 4
HITP 264 Professional Practice Experience HIT 2
HITP 268 Prof Practice Exp Coding Rev Cycle Mgmt. (RM) 3
HITP 270 HIT Seminar 1
HITP 286 Organizational Management & Leadership 3
Totals Program Credits 60-63
* All HITP coursework must be current within 5 years at the time of graduation.
13SYNOPSIS OF CURRICULUM (MCB)
Prerequisites Credits
BIOL 1130 Introductory Anatomy/Physiology Non-Major 3
BIOL 1130L Introductory Anatomy/Physiology Lab Non-Major 1
FYEX 1110 First-Year Seminar 3
HITP 110 Medical Terminology 3
Total Prerequisites Credits 10
Core Curriculum Credits
HITP 120 Introduction to Health Info Technology 3
HITP 130 Pathophysiology and Pharmacology 3
HITP 150 Legal & Ethical Issues in HIT 3
HITP 170 Basic Principles of CPT-4 & HCPCS Coding 3
HITP 202 Basic Principles of ICD-10-CM ICD-10-PCS 3
HITP 212 Advanced Coding and Rev Cycle Mgmt. (RM) 3
HITP 230 Healthcare Reimbursement Methodologies 3
HITP 272 Coding Seminar 1
Total Program Credits 29-32
* All HITP coursework must be current within 5 years at the time of graduation.
14PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE EXPERIENCES
The PPE courses are designed to provide students with practical work experience in the
HIM competencies and domains that focus on skill building and practical application of
theory. The PPE is an experience so there may be several ways in which to gain this
experience. The nature, location, and time in the field is outlined in the PPE Student
Manual. All student outcomes and course objectives are clearly identified in the course
syllabi for each of the courses in the PPE.
Format and Structure
• HITP264 Professional Practice Experience HIT
o Hybrid (combination of externally supervised activity and simulation)
o 60 hours total (40 hours externally supervised activity and 20 hours
simulation)
• HITP268 Prof Practice Experience Coding Rev Cycle Mgmt (RM)
o Simulation (in Canvas)
o 90 hours
152018 HEALTH INFORMATION MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATE DEGREE
CURRICULAUM COMPETENCIES
Supporting Body of Knowledge (Prerequisite or Evidence of Knowledge)
Pathophysiology and Pharmacology
Anatomy and Physiology
Medical Terminology
Computer Concepts and Applications
Math Statistics
Additional Notes
The DM and RM competencies are to be completed in addition to all other competencies, specific to the
program’s chosen specialization.
DM: Competency for Associate Degree Data Management Track
RM: Competency for Associate Degree Revenue Management Track
Curriculum Guidance is provided in a separate document
Domain I. Data Structure, Content, and Information Governance
Competency Bloom’s Level
I.1. Describe health care organizations from the perspective of key stakeholders. 2
I.2. Apply policies, regulations, and standards to the management of information. 3
I.3. Identify policies and strategies to achieve data integrity. 3
I.4. Determine compliance of health record content within the health organization. 5
I.5. Explain the use of classification systems, clinical vocabularies, and nomenclatures. 2
I.6. Describe components of data dictionaries and data sets. 2
I.6. DM Evaluate data dictionaries and data sets for compliance with governance standards. 5
16Domain II. Information Protection: Access, Use, Disclosure, Privacy, and Security
Competency Bloom’s Level
II.1. Apply privacy strategies to health information. 3
II.2. Apply security strategies to health information. 3
II.3. Identify compliance requirements throughout the health information life cycle. 3
Domain III. Informatics, Analytics, and Data Use
Competency Bloom’s Level
III.1. Apply health informatics concepts to the management of health information. 3
III.2. Utilize technologies for health information management. 3
III.3. Calculate statistics for health care operations. 3
III.4. Report health care data through graphical representations. 3
III.5. Describe research methodologies used in health care. 2
III.6. Describe the concepts of managing data. 3
III.7. Summarize standards for the exchange of health information. 2
III.6. DM Manage data within a database system. 5
III.7. DM Identify standards for exchange of health information. 3
Domain IV. Revenue Cycle Management
Competency Bloom’s Level
IV.1. Validate assignment of diagnostic and procedural codes and groupings in accordance 3
with official guidelines.
IV.2. Describe components of revenue cycle management and clinical documentation 2
improvement.
IV.3. Summarize regulatory requirements and reimbursement methodologies. 2
IV.1. RM Determine diagnosis and procedure codes and groupings according to official 5
guidelines.
IV.2. RM Evaluate revenue cycle processes. 5
IV.3. RM Evaluate compliance with regulatory requirements and reimbursement 5
methodologies.
17Domain V. Health Law & Compliance
Competency Bloom’s Level
V.1. Apply legal processes impacting health information. 3
V.2. Demonstrate compliance with external forces. 3
V.3. Identify the components of risk management related to health information 3
management.
V.4. Identify the impact of policy on health care. 3
Domain VI. Organizational Management & Leadership
Competency Bloom’s Level
VI.1. Demonstrate fundamental leadership skills. 3
VI.2. Identify the impact of organizational change. 3
VI.3. Identify human resource strategies for organizational best practices. 3
VI.4. Utilize data-driven performance improvement techniques for decision making. 3
VI.5. Utilize financial management processes. 3
VI.6. Examine behaviors that embrace cultural diversity. 4
VI.7. Assess ethical standards of practice. 5
VI.8. Describe consumer engagement activities. 2
VI.9. Identify processes of workforce training for health care organizations. 3
HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS TECHNICAL AND
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND STANDARDS
The goal of San Juan College's Health Information Technology (HIT) Programs is to
prepare students for the practice of the professions in Health Information Technology and
Medical Coding/Reimbursement. HIT professionals must be able to do the following
essential functions either with or without reasonable accommodation. If you believe you
would need accommodations to do these essential functions as a student, please consult
with SJC’s Services for Students with Disabilities.
181. Verbal communication: This includes speaking and listening using the English
language and medical terminology. The individual must be able to communicate
clearly with instructors, fellow students, physicians, staff, patients, attorneys, third
party payers, government officials, and others. The individual must be able to listen
and speak clearly over the telephone.
2. Written communication - reading and interpretation: This includes extensive
reading ability using English and medical terminology when reviewing medical
records and reference books (medical dictionaries, coding books, etc.) needed to
perform jobs/duties. While going to school, the individual must be able to read and
interpret textbooks, online materials, handouts, etc.
3. Written communication - writing: This includes using English and medical
terminology for college assignments and job-related documents. Examples of
writing required on the job include telephone messages, memos, letters,
professional e-mail messages, business proposals, job descriptions, policies,
procedures, quality improvement reports, etc.
4. Visual needs: This includes the ability to read names and numbers on medical
records, distinguish colors for color coded file systems, read voluminous medical
records in paper or computer format, read code books and other reference
materials, read information in a variety of computer programs and databases, read
handwritten or electronic documents. Also, the ability to prepare office layouts,
design forms, and computer screens.
5. Motor function: This includes the ability to type at a minimum of 40-45 words per
minute. Some HIT positions require the ability to sort medical record forms,
assemble records in correct order, and file records in open shelf files. This may
include overhead reaching and stooping/bending/kneeling to the lowest shelves at
near floor level and the ability to lift to waist height and carry 20 pounds of paper
records for a distance of 50 feet in an office.
6. Computer skills: This includes the ability to work with a wide variety of computer
software programs following written instructions, reading and inputting/responding to
information displayed. This includes PC word processing, spreadsheet,
19presentation, database and flow-charting software, as well as specialized health
information programs (e.g., electronic health records, encoders, chart tracking
systems, etc.). Jobs may include up to eight hours per day of computer work.
7. Mathematical ability: This includes the ability to calculate mathematical
information such as hospital statistics, productivity information, quality improvement
studies, budgets, equipment and supply needs/costs, medical bills, etc. The
individual must also have the ability to apply appropriate algebraic formulas when
preparing computerized spreadsheets.
8. Walking, sitting and standing abilities: This includes the ability to walk or
move (50 feet minimum) from one job station to another in an office environment,
and ability to sit for long periods (two hours in succession) in an office job. Typical
jobs are eight hours with a meal break and two short rest breaks during the shift.
Many HIT positions require the ability to stand for average periods of time (one
hour).
9. Intellectual or conceptual abilities: This includes the ability to synthesize
information from a variety of sources and apply it in making decisions related to
either the class/lab assignment or performing work assigned on the job. Examples
include the ability to take information learned in class theory and apply it in a lab or
practice setting, or taking information learned in a previous class and applying it to a
later class. Another example is the ability to read and interpret information in a
patient's medical record, remember information learned regarding coding principles,
check references when needed, and then to code that patient's record independently
with accuracy and speed.
10. Behavioral/Social abilities: This includes responding effectively in situations of
stress while placing the needs of others first, and demonstrating emotional stability
and flexibility. Examples of this type of behavior include demonstrating willingness
to alter plans or change approaches to the learning or work environment, express
concern for the well-being of others during times of stress, maintain composure
when stressful events occur and continue to function with accuracy. This person
must have the ability to perform the assigned work according to the quality and
20timeliness standards required by the facility. The HIT student and professional must
be able to work independently when required. These individuals must also be able
to function effectively as part of a team (consult, negotiate, share). HIT students and
professionals must show respect to self, peers, instructors, fellow employees,
physicians, patients, other professionals, and supervisors. HIT students and
professionals must show dependability in attendance and completing work according
to deadlines.
11. Confidentiality, honesty and ethics: The HIT student and professional must
protect the confidentiality and security of health records, as well as
facility/practitioner business information. These individuals must comply with all
laws, regulations and standards regarding the practice of health information
management. HIT students must demonstrate honesty and ethics in the learning
environment by not cheating on exams or assignments and not plagiarizing
assignments, etc. HIT professionals must demonstrate honesty and ethics as
defined by the employer and the professional association.
21AHIMA CODE OF ETHICS
Preamble
The ethical obligations of the health information management (HIM) professional include
the safeguarding of privacy and security of health information; disclosure of health
information; development, use, and maintenance of health information systems and health
information; and ensuring the accessibility and integrity of health information.
Healthcare consumers are increasingly concerned about security and the potential loss of
privacy and the inability to control how their personal health information is used and
disclosed. Core health information issues include what information should be collected;
how the information should be handled, who should have access to the information, under
what conditions the information should be disclosed, how the information is retained and
when it is no longer needed, and how is it disposed of in a confidential manner. All of the
core health information issues are performed in compliance with state and federal
regulations, and employer policies and procedures.
Ethical obligations are central to the professional's responsibility, regardless of the
employment site or the method of collection, storage, and security of health information. In
addition, sensitive information (e.g., genetic, adoption, drug, alcohol, sexual, health, and
behavioral information) requires special attention to prevent misuse. In the world of
business and interactions with consumers, expertise in the protection of the information is
required.
Purpose of the American Health Information Management Association
Code of Ethics
The HIM professional has an obligation to demonstrate actions that reflect values, ethical
principles, and ethical guidelines. The American Health Information Management
Association (AHIMA) Code of Ethics sets forth these values and principles to guide
conduct. The code is relevant to all AHIMA members and CCHIIM credentialed HIM
professionals [hereafter referred to as certificants] regardless of their professional
22functions, the settings in which they work, or the populations they serve. These purposes
strengthen the HIM professional’s efforts to improve overall quality of healthcare.
The AHIMA Code of Ethics serves seven purposes:
• Promotes high standards of HIM practice.
• Identifies core values on which the HIM mission is based.
• Summarizes broad ethical principles that reflect the profession's core values.
• Establishes a set of ethical principles to be used to guide decision-making and
actions.
• Establishes a framework for professional behavior and responsibilities when
professional obligations conflict or ethical uncertainties arise.
• Provides ethical principles by which the general public can hold the HIM professional
accountable.
• Mentors practitioners new to the field to HIM's mission, values, and ethical
principles.
The code includes principles and guidelines that are both enforceable and aspirational. The
extent to which each principle is enforceable is a matter of professional judgment to be
exercised by those responsible for reviewing alleged violations of ethical principles.
Principles and Guidelines
The following ethical principles are based on the core values of the American Health
Information Management Association and apply to all AHIMA members and certificants.
Guidelines included for each ethical principle are a non-inclusive list of behaviors and
situations that can help to clarify the principle. They are not meant to be a comprehensive
list of all situations that can occur.
I. Advocate, uphold, and defend the individual's right to privacy and the doctrine of
confidentiality in the use and disclosure of information.
II. Put service and the health and welfare of persons before self-interest and
conduct oneself in the practice of the profession so as to bring honor to oneself,
peers, and to the health information management profession.
23III. Preserve, protect, and secure personal health information in any form or medium
and hold in the highest regards the health information and other information of a
confidential nature obtained in an official capacity, taking into account the
applicable statutes and regulations.
IV. Refuse to participate in or conceal unethical practices or procedures and report
such practices.
V. Advance health information management knowledge and practice through
continuing education, research, publications, and presentations.
VI. Recruit and mentor students, staff, peers, and colleagues to develop and
strengthen professional workforce.
VII. Represent the profession to the public in a positive manner.
VIII. Perform honorably health information management association responsibilities,
either appointed or elected, and preserve the confidentiality of any privileged
information made known in any official capacity.
IX. State truthfully and accurately one’s credentials, professional education, and
experiences.
X. Facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration in situations supporting health information
practice.
XI. Respect the inherent dignity and worth of every person.
24FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you work closely with another online college to obtain a bachelors’ degree after
completing the AAS HIT program? No, but we refer our students to CAHIIM where you
can obtain a list of accredited colleges and universities.
Do you have a proficiency exam for some of the classes that I can take to test out of
some of the courses? Yes, you can do credit by exam, but only up to five courses or 15
credits.
Are campus visits required? No, our program is completely online.
How are final exams proctored? Most final exams in the HIT Program are proctored
using Smarter Proctoring. Information on Smarter Proctoring can be found in your Canvas
course.
Will most if not all of my course preparation/studies/admissions/financial
arrangements be able to be done remotely if I am an out of state resident? All of the
HITP courses and required General Education courses are offered online through San
Juan College. If you need a developmental course, those can be taken at an accredited
community college near you.
What incentives does your school provide for out-of-state students in regards to
tuition? SJC’s out-of-state tuition is $164 per credit hour, plus appropriate fees (effective
for the 2020-2021 academic year), which is less expensive than most schools in-state
tuition. For more information on tuition rates, please visit Enrollment Services. (These rates
are subject to change)
How is tuition payable (per class, per semester, for the entire AAS degree,
etc.)? Tuition is $164 (out-of-state) per credit hour, plus fees, effective for the 2020-2021
academic year; for example, if you take a typical three credit course with a four-credit
course the tuition is 7 x $164= $1,148, plus $305 in general fees which is a total of
$1,463.50 for out of state tuition If this is your first semester it is a good idea to contact the
Business office so there will not be any surprises.
Is there someone to help me with the financial aspect of attending school? Check
Financial Aid. The professional association AHIMA has FORE (Foundation of Research
and Education) scholarships, grants and loans. Check with your employer about tuition
assistance.
If an internship is required, can I use my current employer? Sometimes this may be
possible (subject to Program Director and/or instructor approval). If your current employer
is willing to release you to other departments and does not expect any compensation from
San Juan College this option may be considered. We can sign an agreement, but will need
several months for the school’s attorney to review it and obtain signatures.
What type of internship if any is required? Our professional practice courses are tailored
to the individual student’s needs. Much of these experiences can be completed online.
However, an amount of time must be spent on site in a health care facility. For example,
HITP 264 requires students to spend 40 hours on site in a facility.
25Will you help me find a job after I graduate? AHIMA is invaluable. From time to time we
hear of nationwide positions that are available and these are posted on our program’s
website or sent to recent graduates via e-mail.
What software is used for online classes? At the present time we are using Canvas as
our learning management system. Students are required to have Microsoft Office
Professional 2007 or later (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access). Certain courses will
use medical office management and EHR software (provided with the textbook). In
addition, we use AHIMA’s Virtual Lab system in some courses.
Will someone be able to assist me with which classes need to be taken and in what
order? Your HIT advisor will create a Program Plan for you. You will need to contact the
HIT advisor no less than three or four weeks prior to the beginning of each semester
registration deadline. Advising periods are posted on the SJC Academic Calendar.
Is there a minimum/maximum # of classes per semester? Students must complete the
HIT degree program within 3 academic years (Coding certificate within 2 academic years).
This policy is in place to ensure that students graduate from the programs with current
knowledge and skills and are able to successfully pass the RHIT/CCA credential exam and
enter the professional field. You must work closely with your advisor to ensure that you are
on track to complete the program within these time limits. Sample Program Plans can be
found in Appendix II of this handbook.
How long does each online course last? San Juan College is on a semester system.
Spring and Fall semesters run 15-16 weeks depending on holidays. HITP Summer
sessions are slightly shorter and may range from 4 to 12 weeks.
Where can I buy the books that are required for classes? We highly recommend that
you purchase your textbooks from the San Juan College bookstore. However, you can also
buy your books from AHIMA, Amazon, or any other online vendor if you find a cheaper
price. Please keep in mind however, that most books come bundled with access codes
and other material. These bundles are only available at the SJC bookstore. Please check
with the bookstore to make sure you have all materials required for each class before
ordering them from an online retailer. Note: If you purchase a book that does not come with
the required software or access code, you will have to buy what you are missing from the
publisher, which may end up costing you more than if you purchased the bundle from the
bookstore.
Is there a graduation ceremony offered to distance students? Graduation is held on
campus in Farmington in May each year. Distance learners are welcome to participate.
You can of course finish your degree and not attend graduation.
If I don’t attend the graduate ceremony do I still need to submit an Application for
Graduation? All students must submit an Application for Graduation, in order to
receive their diploma. Submitting this application does not require participation in the on-
site graduation ceremony. If the Application for Graduation is not submitted, students will
not receive their diploma or be considered a graduate of San Juan College. You will
receive your official transcript within 6-12 weeks after the semester has ended.
26GENERAL INFORMATION
Please refer to the San Juan College Academic Catalog regarding San Juan College’s
policies in the following areas:
• Academic Honesty
• Academic Renewal
• Admission to the College
• Appeal of Academic Renewal
• Academic Standing
• Americans with Disabilities Act
• Attendance
• Choice of Catalog
• Complaints
• Credit Hour Load
• Enrollment Status
• Degree/Certification Programs
• Financial Aid
• Grades
• Graduation
• Honors
• Official San Juan College Records
• Reactivation of Student Status
• Registration Information
• Residency Status for Tuition Purposes
• Repeat of a Course for Grade Substitution
• Sexual Harassment Policy
• Student Conduct
• Student Records Policy: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
• Student Services
• Transcripts – Credits Earned at SJC
• Transfer of Credits to San Juan College
• Tuition and Fees Deadlines
27APPENDIX I
COMPUTER SKILLS NECESSARY TO BE EFFECTIVE IN ONLINE LEARNING
It is expected that students in the HIT Programs have, at a minimum, the following skills to
be effective in the online learning environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to send and receive emails
• Ability to attach a file to an email
• Ability to download files
• Ability to perform an Internet search
• Ability to create folders and folder data structures
• Ability to move/copy files from one folder to another
• Ability to zip/unzip files
28APPENDIX II
SAMPLE PROGRAM PLANS
The following are sample Program Plans for the Health Information Technology and
Medical Insurance Coder/Biller Programs.
Health Information Technology AAS Degree:
Fall 1 Spring 1 Fall 2 Spring 2 Summer 2
BIOL 1130 ENGL 2210 HITP 120 HITP 170 HITP 212
BIOL 1130L HITP116 HITP 130 HITP 182 HITP 264
ENGL 1110 MATH 1350 HITP 150 HITP 230 HITP 268
FYEX 1110 PSYC 1110 HITP 202 HITP 240 HITP 270
HITP 110 HITP 286
Medical Insurance Coder/Biller Certificate:
Fall 1 Spring 1 Summer 1 Fall 2
BIOL 1130 HITP 120 HITP 150 HITP 212
BIOL 1130L HITP 130 HITP 202 HITP 272
HITP110 HITP 170 HITP 230
Curriculum requirements are subject to change. For up-to-date information, please
contact the HIT Program Office at 505-566-3597.
29ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND CONSENT FORM
By signing this form, I acknowledge that I have received the San Juan College Health
Information Technology Student Handbook. I have read and I understand the contents of
this handbook, and agree to abide by the information stated within.
I acknowledge that I have also reviewed the San Juan College Academic Catalog and the
Academic Honesty Policy and agree to abide by the information stated within.
Printed Name________________________________________
Signature___________________________________________
Date____________________________
Please return this form via email, fax, or mail to the HIT Department prior to
being advised for your first semester core courses:
Email: hitp@sanjuancollege.edu
Fax: (505) 566-3820
Mailing Address:
SJC HIT Program
4601 College Boulevard
Farmington NM 87402
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