CIHI and CCHIM: Strengthening standards and certification in support of data literacy in Canada
The strategic partnership announced in 2020 amongst the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), the Canadian College of Health Information Management (CCHIM, the College), and the Canadian Health Information Management Association (CHIMA) is strengthened today in support of modernized standards and certification.
The collaboration recognizes the opportunity to leverage the College’s modernized standards and certification approach to prepare a new generation to meet the needs of a world-class health data system. The College is the accrediting body for academic institutions and certifying body for health information professionals in Canada. Its new standard frameworks combine remodelled professional certifications with micro-credentials for an expanding audience of new and existing professionals such as doctors, researchers, technology workers, health information management (HIM) professionals, and more.
The modernized standards support general and specialized knowledge, enabling a wide range of professionals to gain knowledge in data quality, ethics, interoperability, analytics, privacy, and information governance. Accessible learning pathways are offered through an accredited network of educational partners across the country, leading to nationally recognized licensing certification in health information from the College.
“CIHI, the College and CHIMA understand that certified health information professionals are critical to ensuring the supply of high-quality health data and information in Canada,” says David O’Toole, President and CEO, CIHI. “That’s why CIHI is pleased to support and endorse the College’s modernized educational and professional certification standards. The revamped standards are the product of extensive consultations with industry and academic leaders.”
“CIHI’s strengthened recognition of the College’s academic standards and professional certifications appreciates the critical role of data and information in informing policy and enabling the care people receive across the country,” says CEO and Registrar of the College and CHIMA, Jeff Nesbitt. “Employers acknowledge that accessible learning pathways and ongoing professional certification foster a learning health system and human resource capacity building.”
About CIHI
The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) provides comparable and actionable data and information that are used to accelerate improvements in health care, health system performance and population health across Canada. Our stakeholders use our broad range of health system databases, measurements and standards, together with our evidence-based reports and analyses, in their decision-making processes.
About the College
The Canadian College of Health Information Management is a national, not-for-profit organization that sets the accreditation standards for educational institutions and certification standards for health information professionals in Canada. Learn more at www.cchim.ca
About CHIMA
CHIMA is a national organization that represents over 5,800 members across the country. It advocates for the profession, monitors industry trends, develops and facilitates continuing education, creates networking opportunities and connects members with employment opportunities in health care and other sectors. Learn more at www.echima.ca