Frequently asked questionsCHIM NCE

There are two ways to become a Certified Health Information Management (CHIM) professional in Canada:

1. By attending an HIM program accredited by the Canadian College of Health Information Management.
2. By holding a recognized certification from an international association under a reciprocal agreement with the Canadian College of Health Information Management:

• Health Information Management Association of Australia (HIMAA)
• American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
• Korean Accreditation Board for Health and Medical Information Management Education (KAHIME)

Both of the above pathways require candidates to successfully pass the CHIM National Certification Examination (NCE).

The requirements for upholding and maintaining this professional designation are as follows:

• Annual membership renewal with the Canadian Health Information Management Association (CHIMA)
• Upholding of the professional code of ethics
• Completion of the required continuing professional education (CPE) credits as per the timeframe set forth in the CPE policy

Failure to meet any of these criteria may result in decertification.

Reciprocal agreements:

• Health Information Management Association of Australia (HIMAA)
• American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
• Korean Accreditation Board for Health and Medical Information Management Education (KAHIME)

Please visit the program directory to browse HIM programs accredited by the Canadian College of Health Information Management.

Please review the eligibility requirements.

Please visit the program directory to browse HIM programs accredited by the Canadian College of Health Information Management.

The recognized professional designation for classification and coding specialists (medical coders) in Canada is the CHIM professional designation. Please visit the program directory to browse HIM programs accredited by the Canadian College of Health Information Management.

The recognized credential for classification and coding specialists (medical coders) in Canada is the CHIM professional designation. Previous experience with coding is valued; however, for a career as a coding specialist here in Canada, we recommend taking an accredited HIM program. 

There are a number of different HIM programs across Canada that are accredited by the Canadian College of Health Information Management. Please visit the program directory to browse a full list of accredited HIM programs. Please direct all inquiries to the program coordinator at the school of interest; the College is unable to answer program-specific questions related to cost, entrance requirements, length, or advanced standing for previous academic education.

Please visit the program directory to browse accredited HIM programs that can be completed online. Please direct all inquiries to the program coordinator at the school of interest; the College is unable to answer program-specific questions related to cost, entrance requirements, length, or advanced standing for previous academic education.

The College has a reciprocal agreements with:

• Health Information Management Association of Australia (HIMAA)
• American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
• Korean Accreditation Board for Health and Medical Information Management Education (KAHIME)

Please visit the program directory to browse a full list of accredited HIM programs.