Behind every successful healthcare system lies an intricate web of data management professionals whose work, though often invisible to patients, forms the backbone of modern medical care. Saskatchewan Polytechnic has responded to this critical industry need by introducing its Health Information Management (HIM) program—a specialized pathway that’s opening doors to careers at the intersection of healthcare and information technology.
“The healthcare system simply cannot function without proper information management,” explains Jane Harrison, program head at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. “Our graduates become the custodians of health records that follow patients throughout their entire healthcare journey.”
The two-year diploma program, offered primarily through distance learning with periodic on-campus sessions, trains students in the specialized skills of collecting, analyzing, and securing health information. This approach makes the program accessible to students across the province while maintaining hands-on learning components essential for real-world application.
What distinguishes the program is its direct alignment with industry needs. According to the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the demand for qualified health information professionals has increased by 18% over the past three years, with projected growth continuing as healthcare systems digitize and expand their data analysis capabilities.
Students develop expertise in medical terminology, health information analysis, coding classification systems, and privacy regulations—a comprehensive skill set that healthcare facilities increasingly value. The program culminates in a 15-week practicum where students apply their learning in actual healthcare environments.
“The practicum experience was transformative,” shares Michael Chen, a recent program graduate now working at Regina General Hospital. “Classroom learning provided the foundation, but seeing how health information impacts real patient care solidified my career choice.”
Career opportunities for graduates extend beyond traditional hospital settings. Health information management professionals find roles in public health agencies, research institutions, insurance companies, and government health departments. Starting salaries typically range from $55,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals commanding higher compensation.
The program’s certification is particularly valuable, as graduates qualify to write the national certification examination from the Canadian Health Information Management Association (CHIMA), an essential credential for career advancement in the field.
Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s investment in this program reflects broader economic trends showing healthcare information technology as one of the fastest-growing sectors in Canada’s employment landscape. The specialized training positions graduates at the forefront of healthcare transformation, where data-driven decision making is reshaping patient care.
For those considering the program, applications are currently being accepted for the next intake. The blend of healthcare knowledge and technical skills offers a stable career path with diverse opportunities for advancement in an essential service industry.
As healthcare continues its digital evolution, how will these information specialists shape the future of patient care in Saskatchewan and beyond?
