The History of Health Information Professionals Week

Health Information Professionals (HIP) Week, observed annually, has a history rooted in recognizing and raising awareness about the crucial role of health information management (HIM) professionals in the healthcare ecosystem.

Here's a breakdown of the history:

• Early Recognition of the Profession: The field of health information management traces its origins back to 1928 with the establishment of the Association of Record Librarians of North America (ARLNA) by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This organization was formed to elevate the standards of clinical records in hospitals. This marked the formal beginning of HIM as a profession.
• Evolution of the Profession and the Association: Over the decades, the profession evolved significantly, especially with the advent of technology and the increasing importance of data in healthcare. Reflecting these changes, the association underwent several name changes:
  • 1938: The Association became the American Association of Medical Record Librarians (AAMRL).
  • 1970: It was renamed the American Medical Record Association (AMRA).
  • 1991: Finally, it adopted its current name, the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), to accurately represent the impact of technology and data analytics on health information.
• The Inception of Health Information Professionals Week: Health Information Professionals Week was first established in 1990 by AHIMA.
• Purpose of HIP Week: The primary aim of creating this dedicated week was to:
  • Raise awareness: To highlight the importance of the work that HIM professionals do, often behind the scenes.
  • Recognize contributions: To acknowledge their vital role in the social healthcare and medical ecosystems.
  • Promote the profession: To inform individuals about career opportunities within health information management and health informatics.
• Annual Observance and Themes: Since its inception, HIP Week has been observed annually, typically in the third week of April. The dates may slightly vary each year. AHIMA often sets a theme for the week to focus on specific aspects of health information management. For example, past themes have revolved around data quality, information governance, and the evolving role of HIM professionals.
• Growth and Impact: Over the years, HIP Week has grown in significance. It provides an opportunity for HIM professionals to engage in focused activities within their organizations and communities to educate others about their work. It also serves as a platform for professional development and networking.
• AHIMA's Continued Role: AHIMA continues to be the driving force behind HIP Week, providing resources, tools, and ideas for organizations and individuals to celebrate and recognize their health information professionals. They emphasize the critical role of these professionals in ensuring accurate, secure, and accessible health information, which ultimately contributes to better patient care and a more efficient healthcare system.

In essence, Health Information Professionals Week emerged from the recognition of the foundational role that HIM professionals play in healthcare. It's a dedicated time to celebrate their expertise, raise awareness about their contributions, and promote the ongoing importance of this vital field.