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Showing posts from January, 2025

"Many HIM Professionals Felt Invisible, Underappreciated During COVID-19 — Olamitundun Akinjide Reavels How 2019 Pandemic Inspired Creation of Ace Medformatics

Olamitundun Akinjde, the strategic head of Ace Medformatics, a prominent advocacy group in the health information management (HIM) field, has said in a recent interview that the organisation has rapidly become a vital voice advocating for the recognition and advancement of HIM professionals.  She stressed that the organisation was born out of the frustrations experienced by young HIM professionals at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital; Ace Medformatics aims to bridge critical gaps in the healthcare system. How It All Began In an interview with HIM Media NG , Mrs. Olamitundun Akinjide shared how the creation of Ace Medformatics was driven by the frustrations faced by HIM professionals.  “During the 2019 COVID-19 pandemic, it became clear that the role of HIM professionals was underappreciated,”. Olamitundun explained.  “Many of us felt invisible, especially during the pandemic. That’s when we realized the need for a platform that could advocate for our profession and...

IJHRIM Launches Online Platform to Advance Health Records and Information Management Research

International Journal of Health Records Goes Online, Targets Global Audience The International Journal of Health Records & Information Management (IJHRIM) has officially launched its online presence, making its volumes accessible via Nigerian Journals Online .  This milestone aims to enhance global access to groundbreaking research in health records and information management. With a mission to foster collaboration and innovation, the journal offers a platform for health professionals, researchers, and academics to exchange ideas and solutions that address the complexities of modern healthcare systems. The International Journal of Health Records & Information Management (IJHRIM) emerged as a pioneering platform dedicated to advancing the academic discipline Health Records and Information Management. This journal seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and practical healthcare delivery, empowering primary care providers across diverse settings Driving Innovation...

Health Minister Assures Support for HIM Development in Nigeria

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziak Adekunle Salako, has emphasized the critical role of Health Information Management (HIM) in advancing healthcare services in Nigeria . He made this statement during a visit to the Health Records Officers Registration Board of Nigeria (HRORBN) headquarters in Abuja. During the visit, Dr. Salako lauded the Board’s efforts in digitalizing its operations and ensuring efficient health information management across the country. The Registrar/CEO of HRORBN, Alhaji Babagana Mustapha, briefed the Minister on the Board’s progress, including strides in promoting effective health data management and addressing emerging challenges. “The Board has made significant strides in promoting effective health information management in Nigeria. Despite the challenges we face, we remain committed to ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of health data management,” said Alhaji Babagana. Among the Board's key achievements, the Registrar highlight...

“The Problem Lies with Professionals, Not the Profession” — Idowu Mercy

In a thought-provoking webinar, Mr. Idowu Mercy, the National Secretary of the Association of Clinical Coding and Documentation Improvement Specialists, Nigeria (ACCDISN), delivered a powerful message to Health Information Management professionals. He emphasized that the challenges facing the clinical coding profession are not inherent to the field itself but stem from the actions and mindset of those practicing it. “There are no problems in this profession; the problem lies with the people,” Mr. Mercy declared, highlighting the need for professionals to take ownership of their roles and embrace accountability. Mr. Mercy also stressed the universal nature of the profession, stating, “The profession is the same from Nigeria to Canada.” Despite this global uniformity, he highlighted the pressing need to address existing challenges through actionable solutions. The Role of ACCDISN in Driving Change In his address, Mr. Mercy underscored the vital role of ACCDISN in fostering excellence a...

Beyond Paper Work: Unveiling the Truth About A Career in Health Information Management

Health Information Management (HIM) plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry by ensuring patient data is accurate, secure, and readily accessible .  However, the profession is often misunderstood and surrounded by myths. Whether you're considering a career in HIM or simply looking to deepen your understanding, this article aims to dispel common misconceptions and highlight the true essence of the field. Misconception #1 : HIM Is All About Paperwork A common belief is that HIM professionals primarily handle administrative tasks and paperwork. However, the role goes far beyond filing and documentation. HIM experts are deeply involved in organizing, analyzing, and securing health data. They utilize technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, and problem-solving skills to manage digital health systems, perform data analytics, ensure healthcare information security, and optimize electronic health records (EHR). Misconception #2 : A Medical Degree Is Necessary for HIM Contrary to p...

Why Health Information is Key: Saving Lives and Improving Care

Health information is crucial for effective healthcare management, raising awareness, combating misinformation, and ensuring proper care. It empowers informed decisions, improving outcomes and strengthening healthcare systems. Key Reasons Why Health Information is Vital  Foundation of Medical Science Health information forms the basis of diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. Medical science relies on accurate data to advance research, improve treatment protocols, and design effective public health interventions. Poor or incomplete health records can lead to misdiagnoses, delayed treatments, and compromised patient outcomes. Improving Patient Care With accurate patient information, healthcare providers can make informed decisions, prescribe the right medications, and monitor progress effectively. Electronic health records (EHRs) enable seamless sharing of patient information, improving care coordination, especially for chronic conditions. Health Communication Saves Lives ...