UM-Flint Health Informatics and Information Management program graduates first class
The University of Michigan-Flint College of Health Sciences will graduate its first cohort from the Bachelor of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management program this summer.
The online program prepares students to manage medical records, safeguard sensitive data, and provide information-driven solutions in health care settings such as hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and government agencies. The curriculum covers topics including big data, information security, document integrity, health care policy, and public health statistics, along with hands-on training through internships and applied coursework. Graduates are also eligible to sit for the Registered Health Information Administrator exam.
As the health information field expands – the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 29% growth in health information technician employment by 2033 – students are reporting positive experiences and strong preparation for their careers.
Wendy Wagner, of Millville, PA, a member of the inaugural class, said the HIIM program's flexible format and practical content were a perfect fit for her full-time career in health care fraud, waste and abuse investigation.
"I work full time and was looking for health information management or health data analytics," Wagner said. "An ad for the HIM program for UM-Flint popped up, and I looked into it and found that it would meet my needs, and it was fully online, plus I am a Wolverine fan, so that was a plus."
Wagner said the program's coursework has been both challenging and relevant, and highlighted the value of her Ethics in Health Care class. "It was interesting learning about the different case studies and how ethics played a part in them," Wagner said. She encourages prospective students, saying, "Do it and stick with it. It's a great program, and all the professors are nice and very helpful."
Jesse Cummings of Battle Creek is also graduating this semester, came to UM-Flint with a dual passion for computers and health care, shaped by years of personal medical experience.
"After four decades of managing my own health challenges and experiencing numerous interactions with doctors, nurses, and medical systems at the University of Michigan Hospitals, I see firsthand how critical information technology is to patient care," Cummings said. "UM-Flint's program offers the perfect blend of advanced technology and health care, allowing me to channel my personal experiences as a patient and my technical expertise into a meaningful and amazing career."
Cummings plans to use his training to address provider stress and burnout by piloting initiatives to streamline data management in health care settings. "I'm eager to create an environment where technology serves as a seamless partner in healing, empowering both patients and professionals to thrive," he said. He advises future HIIM students to value collaboration and persistence, adding, "Complex problems in health care IT often require teamwork and patience."
R'reanna Davis, of Saginaw, MI, said the HIIM program's integration of technology and health care closely aligned with her interests and career goals.
"UM-Flint's HIIM program offers the perfect blend of advanced technology and health care, allowing me to channel my personal experiences and technical expertise into a meaningful career," Davis said. "I've seen how critical information technology is to patient care, and I'm excited to help bridge the gap between providers and patients."
Linda Sorensen, HIIM director at UM-Flint, said that the program's first students are poised to make a real difference in the nation's health care system.
"I am deeply grateful to this cohort of Health Informatics and Information Management students, not only for their enthusiasm and drive, but also for how wholeheartedly they have embraced the program and the necessary changes along the way. From day one, these students have actively connected with their coursework, engaged with me and their peers, and consistently brought thoughtful perspectives into class discussions," she said. "Watching them navigate a rigorous curriculum with such determination, flexibility and collaborative spirit has been truly inspiring. Their journey showcases not only impressive academic growth, but also their readiness to shape the future of health care information management."
Applications for the HIIM program are currently open. For information, contact Sorensen at slinda@umich.edu or 810-762-3172.
HELEN GARBARINO
Helen Garbarino is the communications specialist for the College of Health Sciences. Her role encompasses a broad scope of tasks including communications, outreach, marketing efforts, alumni engagement, graphic design, and much more. She can be reached at helund@umich.edu.