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Thriving in HI: Advice from Kimberly McGhee, RHIT, CRCR

By Kimberly McGhee, RHIT, CRCR

Kimberly McGhee, RHIT, CRCR is currently the HI manager of centralized release of information at UnityPoint Health. She leads the Release of Information (ROI) teams for hospital medical records for UnityPoint System Services. Prior to joining UnityPoint, Kimberly was a regional HI manager and a medical records director for Wexford Health Sources with the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Kimberly has a decade of experience in HI Management, predominantly in leadership positions. She's an AHIMA member and will represent Illinois Health Information Management Association (ILHIMA) as a delegate for 2024-2025. Kimberly previously served on the Central Illinois Health Information Management Association (CIHIMA) board and spoke at ILHIMA and Wisconsin Health Information Management Association (WHIMA) conferences.

Check out Kimberly's advice for fellow HI professionals on how to thrive in the dynamic world of HI


Challenges and opportunities in HI in 2024

  • HI is experiencing changes with automation. Traditional HI roles with scanning and indexing are turning into automated roles with Office for Civil Rights (OCR) recognition. Some coding roles are automated with computer-assisted coding software or are being outsourced as well. Also, some areas of ROI can be automated and interfaced with payor platform systems. Overall, there are many opportunities with AI that can be explored within all areas of HI.

Recommended steps for HI pros to maximize impact on healthcare/patient care in 2024

  • Get involved in state advocacy. Oftentimes the elected state legislators are waiting to hear from professionals when they vote on bills. Your voice can help shape and change the outcome of legislation that affects healthcare and our patients. 

Steps HI pros can take in 2024 to thrive in the profession

  • Adapting to changes and trying to stay ahead of trends. I constantly stay abreast of new information, technology, and trends in the HI field. Always remain open to taking on a new challenge, and don’t forget to network with your fellow peers.

AHIMA-specific steps HI professionals can take to advance their careers

  • Continue to learn and find an area of specialty. Obtain the credentials that pertain to your field and that will make you stand out as a professional.

Anything additional you would like to include

  • As you enter the HI profession, get involved in state and local HI chapters. The networking you will experience will be invaluable.
Kimberly McGhee, RHIT, CRCR

Kimberly McGhee, RHIT, CRCR

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