HIMSS has expanded eligibility for the Certified Associate in Healthcare Information and Management Systems certification, creating a new pathway for high school students preparing to enter the health information and technology workforce.

Under the updated eligibility criteria, high school students in the final stages of an approved health informatics career and technical education program are now eligible to sit for the CAHIMS exam. The change is designed to make professional certification accessible earlier for students who have developed foundational health informatics knowledge through CTE programs and are considering careers in the field.

The CAHIMS certification is designed for individuals early in their digital health careers and validates foundational knowledge and skills needed to contribute to the planning, implementation and optimization of health technology. The two-hour exam covers the healthcare and technology environment, clinical informatics, the systems development lifecycle and management and leadership.

By extending eligibility to qualifying high school students, HIMSS is creating an opportunity for emerging professionals to demonstrate their knowledge before entering the workforce or pursuing further education. The pathway also helps connect health informatics education with an industry-recognized credential, supporting students as they begin exploring career opportunities across health information and technology.

The updated eligibility requirements are outlined in the CAHIMS Candidate Handbook, which provides information on eligibility, the application and examination process, exam preparation and certification requirements.

Learn more about CAHIMS certification and eligibility requirements.