An overview of health information management education in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: In Saudi Arabia, Health Information Management (HIM) programs are established in universities and colleges that offer studies at the Bachelor's and Master's level. Purpose: The main objective of this study was to assess the different HIM programs available in Saudi Arabian universities and colleges, in terms of the names of the programs, year of establishment, and other specific differences between them. Another objective was to have input for the establishment of future HIM degrees across Saudi Arabia. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the number, date of establishment, and location of HIM programs available in Saudi Arabian universities and colleges. In this retrospective study, information was collected from the Ministry of Education and updated online websites of universities and colleges. Results: A total of 81 universities and colleges across Saudi Arabia were reviewed for the availability of Health Information Management (HIM) programs. Out of the 81 reviewed institutions, 16 had at least one HIM program available. 6 programs were established in private colleges and 10 were in public universities. In terms of the level of education, all of the 16 institutes were offering Bachelor's degree programs; and, 5 of them were offering a Master's degree program. Conclusions: HIM undergraduate programs in Saudi Arabia are better established than postgraduate programs. The adequacy of HIM programs in Saudi Arabia can only be judged by a careful analysis of the HIM alumni job placement and workforce needs. The results of this research can be useful to predict the workforce needs to ensure an adequate supply of highly skilled HIM professionals in Saudi Arabia. In this regard, it would be important to systematically monitor trends in healthcare technology and the healthcare industry to identify the level and types of skills required by these professionals.