Understanding HIM Credentials
AHIMA offers several professional credentials that validate expertise across the health information management field, with the Registered Health Information Administrator, RHIA, and the Registered Health Information Technician, RHIT, being the two foundational credentials most closely tied to formal academic pathways. RHIA candidates should understand how these credentials differ and how they fit within the broader HIM career ladder.
Educational Requirements
The RHIA credential requires graduation from a baccalaureate-level health information management program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education, reflecting a broader management and leadership-oriented curriculum. The RHIT credential requires graduation from an associate-level accredited program, with a curriculum more focused on technical skills such as coding and data quality at an operational level.
Examination Structure
Both credentials require passing a certification examination covering domains specific to each credential level, with the RHIA exam placing greater emphasis on leadership, information governance, revenue cycle management, and organizational strategy, while the RHIT exam emphasizes coding, data analytics, and health record content at a more operational level.
Maintaining Certification
- Both credentials require ongoing continuing education units accumulated over a two-year cycle to maintain active certification
- AHIMA members typically face a different continuing education requirement than non-members, incentivizing membership
- Failure to complete required continuing education within the cycle can result in credential suspension or revocation
- Certain specialty credentials, such as those in coding or privacy, may be pursued in addition to the foundational RHIA or RHIT credential
Career Progression Between Credentials
Many professionals begin their careers with an RHIT credential and later pursue additional education to qualify for the RHIA credential as they move into management and leadership roles, though a professional entering directly into a bachelor's program can pursue RHIA eligibility without first obtaining RHIT.
Value of Credentialing
Employers often require or strongly prefer AHIMA credentials for HIM positions because they provide a standardized, nationally recognized validation of competency, supporting both individual career advancement and organizational confidence in staff qualifications.
Exam Tip
Know the distinct educational prerequisites for RHIA versus RHIT and understand the continuing education cycle length required to maintain active certification status.