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UAS health information management program earns highest recognition from national accrediting agency

October 17, 2025

The University of Alaska Southeast Health Information Management program has been recognized as a program of distinction by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). 

The Sitka-based associate degree program was awarded commendation for its leadership as an early adopter of the CAHIIM Future Education Model. The new model emphasizes experiential learning as a pathway to real-world performance, with a focus on mastering skills and competencies that will meet the rapidly evolving demands of the industry. 

Students have the opportunity to engage with industry professionals in the classroom, gain hands-on experience using electronic health record and claim form simulations, and practice interview skills with potential employers. As a capstone, students complete a 75-hour clinical or facility-based practicum in a real healthcare environment. 

“The Future Education Model aligns seamlessly with the university’s commitment to providing an immersive and practical learning experience,” said UAS Health Information Management Program Director Terissia Bell. “This innovative model integrates real-world applications directly into the classroom, ensuring that students are well prepared for professional success.” 

UAS blazed the way to the new 2026 standards as one of 40 schools to participate in a CAHIIM demonstration program. Bell, along with Assistant Professor Becky Deroos and collaborators from across the country, spent a year collecting data to evaluate the new education model, identifying evidence-based practices and barriers, and developing methods to assess student outcomes.

“CAHIIM commends the UAS program director, faculty, and leadership for their vision, diligence, and collaborative spirit,” said Angela Kennedy, CAHIIM’s chief executive officer. “The program’s success serves as an inspiring example for other programs looking to evolve their educational models to meet the demands of the future and ensure graduates are workforce-ready.” 

The UAS Associate of Applied Science degree program in prepares students to manage the non-clinical aspects of healthcare, including data analytics, patient registration and accounts, medical records, and coding. It is the only accredited health information management program in the State of Alaska.