This week we’re excited to feature Angela Ratliff, a recipient of the 2025 HIMSS Foundation Professional Certification Grant for Minority Professionals and Students. In this spotlight, Angela shares her perspective on the value of professional certification and the journey while preparing to become CPHIMS® certified.

Angela Ratliff has spent more than a decade working at the intersection of health information and technology, building on a background in health information management, data analysis, and IT system support. Drawing on her experience, Angela has helped hospitals improve workflows, strengthen data security, and make complex systems run more smoothly. Along the way, she discovered how much she enjoys solving challenges and finding ways for teams to work smarter together. For Angela, the work is about more than systems and processes; it is about using technology to make patient care better and more efficient. When she is not in the office, she enjoys traveling to historical sites and playing the bass, interests that keep her curious, creative, and inspired.

Congratulations once again, Angela! We at HIMSS are proud to celebrate your achievements and look forward to your continued growth and impact in the field.

For those interested in applying for the 2026 cohort of the HIMSS Foundation Professional Certification Grant for Minority Professionals and Students, be sure to visit the HIMSS Foundation website for more details. The application period is expected to open this Fall. Don’t miss the opportunity to advance your professional journey through HIMSS certification!

HIMSS: What inspired you to pursue certification in health tech?

Angela Ratliff: My passion for health information management comes from a desire to make healthcare more equitable and accessible through technology. Having been a patient myself, I’ve seen firsthand how critical care coordination and efficient systems are for both patients and providers. Those experiences inspired me to focus on advancing IT solutions that not only improve patient care but also help reduce disparities and ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need. Pursuing certification felt like a way to deepen my knowledge, challenge myself, and strengthen my ability to make a real impact in healthcare.

HIMSS: How has receiving this grant helped you on your certification journey?

Angela Ratliff: Receiving this grant has been a game-changer in my certification journey. Having access to the study materials and resources made a huge difference, and it allowed me to prepare with confidence and pass the CPHIMS exam on my first try. What truly made the experience special, though, was the community it connected me with. Talking with peers and mentors, sharing tips, and celebrating small wins along the way made the process feel less like a solo challenge and more like a shared journey. Their encouragement kept me motivated and made this achievement feel even more meaningful.

HIMSS: What advice would you give others from underrepresented backgrounds pursuing a similar path?

Angela Ratliff: I encourage others from underrepresented backgrounds to focus on what genuinely excites them and what they are good at. Finding work that aligns with your interests and strengths makes the journey more meaningful and helps you stay motivated. I also recommend seeking out networking and volunteer opportunities, since they can open doors, provide valuable learning experiences, and connect you with people who want to see you succeed. Most importantly, confidence matters. Believing in yourself and your abilities allows you to take up space, share your perspective, and contribute in ways that truly move healthcare IT forward.

HIMSS: What excites you the most about being part of the HIMSS community?

Angela Ratliff: I’m excited to learn from my peers and share ideas with like-minded professionals who are passionate about improving healthcare through technology. Being part of HIMSS allows me to contribute to meaningful innovation, collaborate on solutions that enhance patient care, and be part of a community driving the future of healthcare IT.