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HIM Transitions

Traditional Learning vs. Online Learning

Published April 21, 2008 8:55 AM by Carol Dantzler, MEd, RHIA
As I look through my AHIMA journal, there is a tremendous increase in online learning institutions offering degrees. If you go on the AHIMA website, pop-up ads appear for online degrees. There is much debate regarding the value of obtaining an online degree verses going the traditional route.  When I started out in my educational adventure years ago, I obtained both my associate and bachelor's degree by attending the traditional institutions.  The experience required me to carry a full class load and work part-time to pay for my classes. Because of the affiliation of my university with the health care community, I landed a part-time job with the HIM department at a local hospital. I couldn't quit my job or drop any classes. I had to make everything else work around my classes.

When I decided to obtain a master's degree, I knew that the online learning environment was the only option for me. For most adults returning to school, the responsibilities of family obligations and holding down a job are all factors in choosing online learning.  In my case, I was working full time and responsible for two elementary age children.  The online learning option allowed me the flexibility to pursue my degree without disrupting my personal and professional life.

Although I did my homework on choosing an online institution, I was filled with anxiety. I was accustomed to learning in the traditional learning environment.  After settling in to the virtual world of learning, I settled down and embraced the change. The expectations were clearly spelled out and the instructors were available to provide support via online or by conference call.  The amount of research was mind boggling. Instead of having to go to the library to conduct research, I did not have to leave my home. Thank God for the Internet.  Some of the criticism of online learning is the sense of isolation that some students feel.  I found this to be exactly the opposite. I received tremendous support from my instructors and classmates. There encouraging words got me through the difficult times.

I had the same concerns that most people associate with online degrees. I was concerned that employers would not see the value in an online degree. Some online degrees are just correspondence courses, which can leave you with a degree that is worthless.  I consulted an HR director and she informed me that employers place the same value on online degrees from accredited facilities. I would recommend to anyone choosing an online institution to do their homework. The institution must be accredited and be in good standing with accreditation bodies. The Higher Learning Commission warns of the number of on line institutions that are unaccredited or accredited by agencies that are not recognized by the the U.S. Deparment of Education. To check on the legitimacy of any accrediting agency you may call the U.S.D.E. at (202) 219-7011 or go to the website.

It is clear that online learning is here to stay. It has become so popular that mainstream traditional institutions are all embracing it. I would love to hear your experiences with online learning.

Carol Dantzler, MEd, RHIA

Allied Health Instructor

posted by Carol Dantzler, MEd, RHIA

8 comments
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Tammy,

Working in a busy physician practice is extremely stressful.  I am sorry that your career in medical billing did not work out for you.  The nursing shortage continues and I am sure that you will not have any trouble finding a job after graduation.  However, you will find that nursing is more stressful due to the long hours and the number of patients each nurse must take care of.   Although you will  be compensated more as a nurse, this profession has a high burn out rate.  I have friends that are nurses in hospitals, hospices,home health and offices who have gotten out of the profession because they are overwhelmed by the system.  Many have gone on to work in the insurance industry, education and coding and billing.  I wish you success in your decision to transition into another career.  
Carol Dantzler, Educator May 15, 2008 11:55 AM

In 2007 I graduated college with an Associated Degree in Applied Science in Office Systems Technology in Medical Administrative. My course of studies included 2 semesters of Medical Transcription, Medical Coding, Billing and Insurance to name a few. I received 2 Diplomas and several certificates along with my degree. I did my Internship at a rural hospital 35 miles from my home, and after the Internship was hired in Medical Billing for 1 doctor, a general practicioner. A couple of months later I was given the task of completing the accounts for another Doctor who had moved his practice, a rheumatologist; and then the accounts of a urologist/surgeon. The pay was low, not to mention the amount of work to be completed. The office I worked in managed several doctor practices from scheduling, staffing and billing. Each biller took a turn at a designated time to relieve check out as well. It was a very stressful job, and not enough hours in the day to finish tasks. I was thankful for the job, which I had gone to school for, but with the rising costs of gasoline, and the low pay I opted to go back to school this spring and ended up quitting my job, and going back to work at the resort right down the road from me. I have been accepted in the Nursing Program this fall, and feel as if I am finally realizing my dream. My hat goes off to all those employed in Medical Billing ...... it's a tough job, and often underpaid. I had tried to obtained a job in Medical Transcription, but could not find one that would take someone right out of college without at least 2 years of experience.  One contact sent me directly to a Medical Transcription school. I couldn't see spending any more money for more Transcription schooling with the experience and Transcription classes I had previously taken.  It appears that college education isn't always helpful.
Tammy , Customer Service - Front Desk Clerk, Moors Resort May 14, 2008 9:28 AM
Gilbertsville KY

Carol, Congratulations on your wonderful new opportunity to blog about our great profession.  You are right on-line learning is wonderful and as a faculty member of the on-line Med Trans program at Kaplan University I know how wonderful it is to be a part of this learning environment, and how important it is to have our students who are literally all over the country achieving their education goals, on-line, at home, in their time frame.  Keep up the great work and I appreciate all of your help keeping us on the cutting edge with our MT program at Kaplan.
Kathleen, Medical Transcription - Professor, Kaplan University May 4, 2008 2:55 PM
Delray Beach FL

Thank you for your response. My ultimate passion is coding. In 2002 I graduated from a vocational school in the medical/billing program that was not accredited so I ran into problem of not being able to land a job. Before that I took an at home course for medical billing. So I have 2 certificates of study in the field but there are not recognizeable by employers. I got very discouraged so I just continued in my current profession as a Law Enforcement dispatcher. 10 years in this job now and I am getting burned out. So now my focus is back to HIM. Everyday I research to see what's new and look for job postings to keep up with what employers are looking for. I am starting to network and will apply for student memberships in AHIMA and AAPC. I do receive periodicals from Adavance and For The Record.  Now going more into my schooling I am more excited than ever and a bit overwhelmed because there are so many areas that I want to master in this field. Being a woman of color I feel like the skies the limit for me so we will see how it goes. I have made a long term goal of wanting to be a coding consultant and own my own consulting business. When I get experience under my belt and specialize and stack my credentials, I want to give back by educating newcomers to this profession. I understand it's not that easy to break in because a lot of employers are looking for at least 1-2 years experience but  I want to help change that. For those of us who want to make a mark in this profession we just need a chance to prove it. Thanks for your words hope to talk to you throughout my journey. %0d%0a%0d%0aMara
Mara Thomas, HIM - Student, IRCC April 30, 2008 6:47 PM
Wpb FL

Hi Mara,

It is good to hear from an HIM student.  I think that you have made a wise choice with the HIM field.  The field has changed tremendously since I started out twenty years ago.  There are so many directions your career can take you.  Coding/reimbursement will continue to be one of the most sought after areas in which employers are looking for people with expertise. Also, an HIM degree with knowledge of computer applications would be a hot ticket.  With the advances in technology, the electronic medical record has transformed the HIM profession.  If you have a particular interest in a certain area of HIM,  go with your passion for that area.  

Carol
Carol Dantzler, Educator April 30, 2008 10:39 AM

Mrs Dantzler-Harris,

Do you do any mentoring? I am a student and looking to network and receive advice from established professionals as well as networking with other students. Any suggestions, comments and/or concerns would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.

Mara

djoycethomas@comcast.net

Mara , HIM - Student, IRCC April 29, 2008 8:44 AM
FL

I'm currently a sophomore in the HIM program at Regis University in Denver, CO, but I live in Florida.  I couldn't find any programs here in the state (although I think they're available now) and my job schedule (10-6:30) makes it difficult to get to morning or early evening classes.  I love online learning.  You really aren't as disconnected from your classmates or professors as the assumption seems to be.  There are forums to post in, chatrooms to discuss projects in, and email.  It's been challenging to say the least, as a single parent, but it's definitely worth it.

Barbara LeMaster, Dermatopathology - Transcriptionist, Ameripath South Florida April 25, 2008 3:55 PM
Pompano Beach FL

I'm happy to see another career-changing blogger here , but I can't decide if her narratives are more
April 25, 2008 1:29 PM

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