Hi,

Has anyone heard about the Transformation of HIM to a Graduate-level Profession by 2016? Today, HIM is externally viewed as an undergraduate profession. Due to projected changes in the master’s degree level, the bachelor's program will transition to a master's degree program to provide a career ladder for HIM professionals. If someone would find more on this “hot” issue as to whether the transformation actually will be took place by 2016 or not. Please feel free to respond, since one reply could help many of us who are there in the HIM profession.

Thank you in advance.

This "Vision 2016" was a white paper put out by AHIMA (I believe in the Fall, 2008 or thereabouts).

In it, AHIMA recommended a number of "adjustments" to the HIM curricula.  Indeed, one recommendation was that HIM be expanded to a Master's level curriculum.  AHIMA also recommended consideration of doctoral level. 

The language of the white paper was at times suspect; I think AHIMA intended the Master's level programs to supplement those at the bachelor's level.  Regardless, the Master's level programs exist already!  While there is demonstrated need for the mastery level academic programs, I do not think those were designed to be replacements. 

Included in this white paper was AHIMA's recommendation for "specialization" at the associate's level.  The push for all of these is to create a viable workforce for the future.  AHIMA also hopes to incorporate HIM outsiders into the mix at these graduate levels.  I cannot ever see those programs replacing the bachelor's level.  Honestly, the fundamentals taught at the associate and bachelor's levels cannot necessarily be obtained through the graduate work.  I'm not sure this was the discussion you had in mind, but I guess it's what I have to offer.  I'd be interested in seeing or hearing the progress so far.