The Registered Health Information (RHIT) certification is offered by AHIMA. The exam is perfect for candidates who are planning to make their career as certified health information technicians. They have a great demand in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. The reason why 90% of the professionals opt to take the credential is that AHIMA is the most recognized provider. The real fear faced by the students is whether RHIT certification is worth taking? What is this credential about and how hard is it to obtain this certification? Lastly, one may be looking for tips to pass the exam. If so, you have landed on the right page. In this blog, we will provide a detailed synopsis of the RHIT certification.
Details of RHIT Certification Exam
The RHIT test has a time limit. Examinees have 3.5 hours to finish the test. There are 150 questions in all on the exam. There are 20 pretest items and 130 scored items in total. The test is administered using a computerized format. The RHIT has a passing score of 300.
In order to choose the right response, you must apply your knowledge, abilities, and/or experience to a range of questions and item categories found on AHIMA tests. Every exam has pretest questions that are dispersed at random throughout as well as scored questions. Test questions are not used to determine a candidate’s score; rather, they are used to gather data. Six domains comprise RHIT competencies. A certain portion of the questions on the certification exam are customized to each domain.
Eligibility to Earn the RHIT Certification
RHIT Certification exam is eligible for the candidates who fulfills any one of the following requirements:
- Candidates who have successfully completed the associate degree requirements of a Health Information Management (HIM) programme accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM) are eligible to sit for the Registered Health Information Technician exam.
- Graduate of a HIM program recognized by an international organization with which AHIMA has a reciprocity relationship
Cost of the RHIT Exam
The cost of the exam depends on various factors, as described below:
- Exam Registration Price
The exam registration cost of the RHIT exam is the same for AHIMA members and non-members. Usually, the cost varies for the members and non-members, but not in the case of the RHIT exam. For all applicants, the cost of the exam is $299.
- Ahima Membership Cost
The cost of Ahima membership depends on what category of membership you aspire to gain. They are given below:
- Professional Membership – $149
- Professional – Premier Membership – $199
- Professional – Global Membership – $123
- Student Membership – $49
Note: It must be noted that the membership of Ahima is not mandatory. However, due to the perks and benefits, many candidates prefer to earn the membership.
- Exam Preparation Cost
The preparation of the exam includes the course cost and the dumps cost. Some courses include lectures and practice questions. In other courses, there are lectures only. For such a course, a dump is required separately. The cost of the course and the dumps ranges from $30-$150.
- Exam Recertification fee
The RHIT exam certifications have to be renewed. The exam will get retired in 2 years without recertification. There are two ways of approval of recertification. You can earn the CEU credits. There are 20 CEU credits required for RHIT. Alternatively, you can pay the recertification fee, which costs $218.
Course Topics for RHIT Certification
The course comprises six domains. The course is divided into sub-topics. The percentage of the topics is proportional to the weightage of the questions included in the RHIT exam. You must prepare all the topics before taking the exam.

Domain 1 – Data Content, Structure, and Information Governance (19-25%)
- Apply health information guidelines (e.g., coding guidelines, CMS, facility or regional best practices, federal and state regulations)
- Apply healthcare standards (e.g., Joint Commission, Meaningful Use)
- Identify and maintain the designated record set
- Maintain the integrity of the health record (e.g., identify and correct issues within the EHR)
- Audit content and completion of the health record (e.g., validate document content)
- Educate clinicians on documentation and content
- Coordinate document control (e.g., create, revise, standardize forms)
- Assess and maintain the integrity of the Master Patient Index (MPI)
- Maintain and understand the data workflow
- Create and maintain functionalities of the EHR
- Create and maintain EHR reports to ensure data integrity
- Navigate patient portals and provide education and support
Domain 2 – Access, Disclosure, Privacy, and Security (14-18%)
- Manage the access, use, and disclosure of PHI using laws, regulations, and guidelines (e.g., release of information, accounting of disclosures)
- Determine right of access to the health record
- Educate internal and external customers (e.g., clinicians, staff, volunteers, students, patients, insurance companies, attorneys) on privacy, access, and disclosure
- Apply record retention guidelines (e.g., retain, archive, or destroy)
- Mitigate privacy and security risk 6. Identify and correct identity issues within the EHR (e.g., merges, documentation corrections, registration errors, overlays)
Domain 3 – Data Analytics and Use (12-18%)
- Identify common internal and external data sources
- Extract data
- Analyze data
- Report patient data (e.g., CDC, CMS, MACs, RACs, insurers)
- Compile healthcare statistics and create reports, graphs, and charts
- Analyze common data metrics used to evaluate Health Information functions (e.g., CMI, coding productivity, CDI query rate, ROI turnaround time)
Domain 4 – Revenue Cycle Management (19-25%)
- Identify the components of the revenue cycle process
- Demonstrate proper use of clinical indicators to improve the integrity of coded data
- Code medical/health record documentation
- Query clinicians to clarify documentation
- Recall utilization review processes and objectives
- Manage denials (e.g., coding or insurance)
- Conduct coding and documentation audits
- Provide coding and documentation education
- Monitor Discharged Not Final Billed (DNFB)
- Analyze the case mix
- Identify common billing issues for inpatient and outpatient
- Understand payer guidelines and requirements (e.g., LCDs, NCDs, fee schedules, conditions of participation)
- Collaborate with clinical documentation integrity (CDI) staff
- Review and maintain a Charge Description Master (CDM)
- Describe different payment methodologies and different types of health insurance plans (e.g., public vs private)
Domain 5 – Compliance (13-17%)
- Perform quality assessments
- Monitor Health Information compliance and report noncompliance (e.g., coding, ROI, CDI)
- Maintain standards for Health Information functions (e.g., chart completion, coding accuracy, ROI turnaround time, departmental workflow)
- Monitor regulatory changes for timely and accurate implementation
Domain 6 – Leadership (9-12%)
- Provide education regarding Health Information laws and regulations
- Review Health Information processes
- Develop and revise policies and procedures (e.g., compliance, ROI, coding)
- Establish standards for Health Information functions (e.g., chart completion, coding accuracy, ROI, turnaround time, departmental workflow)
- Collaborate with other departments for Health Information interoperability
- Provide Health Information subject matter expertise
- Understand the principles and guidelines of project management
Download Here: RHIT Certification Exam Domains
Who Is An RHIT Professional?
While most RHITs work in hospitals, they are also found in other healthcare settings, including office-based physician practices, nursing homes, home health agencies, mental health facilities, and public health agencies. RHITs may also be employed in any organization that uses patient data or health information, such as pharmaceutical companies, law and insurance firms, and health product vendors.
Job Roles Of RHIT Certified Professionals
Below are the job roles of the RHIT-certified professionals:
- Ensuring that health and medical records are accurate, full, and properly entered into computer systems.
- Utilise computer programs to compile and evaluate patient data in an effort to save expenses or enhance care.
- Taking part in the information’s access and release to patients and authorized entities.
- Focus on diagnosies and treatments coding in patient records for insurance purposes and scientific purposes. Additional responsibilities for RHITs could include gathering and managing patient data as a cancer, trauma, stroke, etc. registrar.
Sectors where Registered Health Information Technicians Are Employed
- Office-based physician practices,
- Nursing homes
- Home health agencies
- Mental health facilities
- Public health agencies
RHITS may also be employed in any organization that uses patient data or health information, such as
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Law firms
- Insurance firms
- Health product vendors.
Read more: AAPC OR AHIMA: Which one is worth taking
Salary Earned by the RHIT Professionals
The salary prospect of RHIT-certified professionals is bright. According to ZipRecruiter, they make a great deal of income in countries like the US, UK, Japan, and Australia.
Least salary | Average salary | Highest salary | |
Hourly | $14.66 | $27 | $39.90 |
Weekly | $587 | $1,076 | $1,596 |
Monthly | $2,542 | $4,666 | $6,917 |
Yearly | $30,500 | $55,995 | $83,000 |
Difficulty Level of the RHIT Certification Exam
The difficulty of the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam can vary from person to person, depending on their level of preparation and experience. However, in general, the RHIT exam is considered moderately challenging. It covers a wide range of topics related to health information management, including health data management, coding, compliance, and information technology. Success on the RHIT exam typically requires a solid understanding of these topics and a dedicated study effort. It’s recommended to review the exam content outline and consider using study materials or courses to prepare effectively.
15 Proven Tips to Earn the RHIT Certification
To pass the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam, you’ll need to prepare effectively. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Review the RHIT Exam Content Outline
Familiarize yourself with the content outline provided by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). It outlines the specific domains and topics covered on the exam.
- Use Study Materials
Invest in RHIT exam study materials such as textbooks, study guides, and online courses. AHIMA may also provide official study resources.
- Create a Study Plan
Develop a structured study schedule that covers all the exam domains. Allocate more time to areas where you feel less confident.
- Practice with Sample Questions
Use practice questions and sample exams to assess your knowledge and test-taking skills. This can help you get comfortable with the exam format.
- Focus on Weak Areas
Identify your weak areas and prioritize studying them. Don’t neglect any domain, but allocate extra time to areas where you need improvement.
- Make Flashcards
Create flashcards to memorize key terms and definitions. This can be especially helpful for topics like medical coding and terminology.
- Join Study Groups
Consider joining or forming study groups with fellow exam candidates. Discussing and explaining concepts to others can reinforce your understanding.
- Take Breaks
Don’t cram. Take regular breaks during your study sessions to avoid burnout and retain information better.
- Simulate Exam Conditions
Take practice exams under timed, exam-like conditions to simulate the real testing experience.
- Review and Revise
As the exam date approaches, review your study materials, notes, and practice questions. Ensure you understand the concepts thoroughly.
- Stay Calm and Confident
On exam day, stay calm and trust in your preparation. Read questions carefully and answer to the best of your ability.
- Manage Time Efficiently
Manage your time during the actual exam. Don’t spend too much time on a single question; move on and return to it if necessary.
- Mark Difficult Questions
If you’re unsure about a question, mark it for review and come back to it later. Sometimes, later questions may provide hints for earlier ones.
- Read Questions Carefully
Pay close attention to wording and details in the questions. The RHIT exam can be quite detailed, so be thorough in your reading.
- Verify Answers before Submission
Before submitting your exam, review your answers. Ensure you’ve answered all questions and haven’t made any careless mistakes.
Read more: RHIA OR RHIT: Which One is Best
Worth and Importance of the RHIT Certification-10 Reasons to Acquire It
The Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) exam holds significant importance in the field of health information management for several reasons:
- Credentialing
Passing the RHIT exam allows individuals to earn the RHIT credential, which is recognized and respected in the healthcare industry. This credential demonstrates a certain level of competence and knowledge in health information management.
- Career Opportunities
RHIT certification can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in health information management, including roles in hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, government agencies, and more.
- Compliance
Many healthcare organizations require RHIT certification for certain positions to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).
- Quality of Patient Care
Health information management professionals play a crucial role in maintaining accurate and secure patient records. RHIT-certified individuals contribute to the quality of patient care by ensuring that health information is properly managed and accessible when needed.
- Data Accuracy
RHITs are responsible for coding and classifying medical data accurately. Accurate coding is essential for billing, reimbursement, and statistical purposes, which are critical for healthcare organization’s financial stability and planning.
- Privacy and Security
RHITs are trained in healthcare data security and privacy regulations. They help protect patient information from breaches and ensure that healthcare organizations comply with privacy laws.
- Health Information Technology (HIT)
With the growing importance of electronic health records (EHRs) and health information technology, RHITs are in demand to manage and maintain electronic health data systems effectively.
- Career Uplift
RHIT certification can be a stepping stone for career advancement within the field of health information management. Many professionals with RHIT credentials go on to pursue higher-level roles and certifications.
- Professional Development
RHITs are expected to engage in continuing education and stay updated on industry trends and changes. This commitment to professional development helps ensure the continued accuracy and security of health data.
- Industry Standardization
The RHIT credential helps standardize the qualifications and competencies of health information management professionals, which benefits both employers and patients by ensuring a consistent level of expertise in the field.
Read more: 13 Best Medical Coding Certifications
In Summary
In summary, the RHIT exam and certification are essential components of the healthcare industry’s efforts to maintain accurate, secure, and accessible health information. RHIT-certified professionals play a vital role in ensuring the quality of patient care, data accuracy, and compliance with healthcare regulations.
Indeed, the RHIT certification is comprehensive, covering various aspects of health information management. Adequate preparation and a calm, focused approach on exam day can significantly increase your chances of passing.
Frequently Asked Questions -FAQ'S
How much time is required to learn the RHIT exam?
Usually, it would take 4-5 weeks to prepare for the exam. If you have prior knowledge about health information or you have a few months of experience, it would take less time.
How hard is the RHIT exam?
The RHIT exam is not as hard as expected. For students who have got a clear understanding of all the exam topics, it is easier for them to pass the exam. Almost all the candidates who take the RHIT exam are able to pass the exam in a single attempt.
Are there any reliable exam dumps for the RHIT certification exam?
Dumpsgate provides the most comprehensive and reliable dumps for the preparation of the RHIT certification. There are 300+ practice questions. The expert-verified questions are assembled and solved by the IT professionals.
Will RHIT certification guarantee career success?
Yes, RHIT certification is the best certification for health information technicians. The exam acts as a badge to showcase your skills in the field of health information, so it is recommended to take by every eligible candidate.