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Should I go for my RHIT or - JC


Posted: Sep 20, 2012

take a coding course? I cannot afford to do both at this time. I was also wondering if I were to go through HIM to get my RHIT if I could also get my CCS and CPC with just the HIM courses? I hope that makes sense. Thanks.

What is so attractive about an RHIT? - Better options now

[ In Reply To ..]
RHIT was ok when you had to attend in person and there were few RHIA programs. Now, there are better options.

Look at the AHIMA salary surveys to see the income difference between RHIT and coding, and RHIA. That is going to help with your decision.

Coding is a higher credential than RHIT. Look at the kind of jobs RHITs do and do not buy that stuff about it being a management degree. It can be, but not always. It can also take nearly 3 years full time.

If you are thinking aling RHI* lines, do the health informatics program at WGU. I think it can be done in about the same time as an RHIA, but you will have an RHIA, CCA, several computer certifications, and a bachelor's degree. You should be able to pass the CPC, too. It is interesting, timely, and is the only program I would ever take a loan out for.

I would never consider loans for coding or an RHIT, but WGU is worth it. The faster you finish, the less it will cost, so get motivated! WGU is not a diploma mill, either.

If you do a regular RHIT will you be able to code? Maybe. It depends on the college. Will you get a CPC? Probably. A CCS? Unlikely, as they teach to the lower CCA. Can you get a CCA? Maybe, but the failure rate on that is around 50%.

Thank you for the info. - JC

[ In Reply To ..]
I just noticed that a lot of the coding jobs in my area, central Maine, want an RHIT, as well as CPC or CCS. Thanks for the info. I will look into WGU. Have a great day!!


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