RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator
The RHIA certifies professionals who manage health information systems, privacy, and data governance across healthcare settings.
- Exam fee
- $229–$299
- Valid for
- 2 years
- Typical salary
- $65K–$95K
RHIA is ideal for HIM professionals who lead data, privacy, and operational functions in hospitals or health systems. If you work solely in coding or lack a HIM degree, another certification may suit you better.
What RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator covers
Issued by AHIMA (ahima.org), RHIA validates mastery of health information management, medical coding leadership, data governance, and healthcare compliance.
Key topics covered: Health Data Management, ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding, Revenue Cycle Management, Healthcare Privacy & Security, Informatics & Analytics, Organizational Management, Compliance & Regulations.
Best suited for: Health information management professionals in hospitals, insurance, and healthcare organizations.
Common career paths: Health Information Manager, HIM Director, Revenue Cycle Manager, Clinical Data Analyst.
RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator exam details
Exam domains
- Health Data Management
- ICD-10-CM/PCS Coding
- Revenue Cycle Management
- Healthcare Privacy & Security
- Informatics & Analytics
- Organizational Management
- Compliance & Regulations
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $229–$299
- Prerequisites
- Successful completion of a CAHIIM‑accredited HIM baccalaureate, master’s, post‑baccalaureate certificate, or an approved foreign HIM program
- Valid for
- 2 years
How to prepare for RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Confirm Eligibility Verify that you have completed a CAHIIM‑accredited HIM degree or approved certificate; gather transcripts and documentation. | Week 1 |
| 2 | Study the Official Outline Review AHIMA’s RHIA exam content outline and focus on the core domains of health information management, data governance, compliance, and analytics. | Weeks 2‑4 |
| 3 | Targeted Learning & Practice Use AHIMA’s optional study materials and other reputable resources to deepen knowledge; complete practice questions and the two full‑length practice exams. | Weeks 5‑8 |
| 4 | Final Review & Scheduling Take timed mock exams, identify weak areas, and schedule your Pearson VUE test date within the 120‑day eligibility window. | Week 9 |
| 5 | Recertification Planning Set up a CEU plan to satisfy the 2‑year recertification requirement and keep your credential current. | Ongoing |
Jobs and salary with RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $65K–$95K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator questions answered
What is the RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator certification?
The RHIA certifies professionals who manage health information systems, privacy, and data governance across healthcare settings. It is issued by AHIMA and sits in the Healthcare field.
Is RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator hard?
RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator is rated Intermediate. It assumes some foundational knowledge or entry-level experience.
How much does the RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $229–$299. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with AHIMA before you book.
How long is RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator valid?
RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator is valid for 2 years, after which it must be renewed under AHIMA's renewal rules.
Are there prerequisites for RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator?
Successful completion of a CAHIIM‑accredited HIM baccalaureate, master’s, post‑baccalaureate certificate, or an approved foreign HIM program
What salary can I expect with RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator?
Professionals with RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator commonly report pay in the $65K–$95K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to RHIA – Registered Health Information Administrator
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CPHIMS – Certified Professional in Health Informatics | HIMSS | Advanced |
| CPHQ – Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality | NAHQ | Intermediate |