HIT120 week 1 discussion (dq1 & dq2) latest 2016 december

• In this first thread, we will explore the healthcare system in the United States (US). As you will learn by reading chapter 11 in Sayles' textbook, healthcare services have evolved over the years and the US has become one of the world leaders in healthcare technologies. Yet, we face various challenges in terms of access, cost, and quality. Learning about healthcare system in general is important for a health information professional for many reasons:
  

  1. We work in healthcare, so we need to know our work environment and adapt accordingly;
  2. Many HIT and coding practices vary depending on the type of healthcare setting;
  3. Learning about the healthcare system helps you understand the big picture and the impact of health information technology in patient care;
  4. General knowledge about healthcare systems along with HIT or coding specialization prepares you to move up the ladder and advance your career.

  In starting this topic, identify and elaborate on some of the healthcare challenges. In your responses, reflect on your textbook readings as well as any other literature and your experiences.

This topic is dedicated to discussing the role of health information professionals, medical coders, and billers. What do you know about these professions? What education is required to work in these professions? What certifications or credentials are required or preferred? What job skills are required to accommodate the shift towards greater automation and the electronic medical record environment?