Parker University’s Healthcare Business & Information Systems Programs Give You Direction Without the Doubt!

When it comes to your future, you don’t need more options; you need a clear path. The business of healthcare may be complex, but with the right preparation, you can lead it. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, Parker University gives you the skills, confidence, and career clarity to stop second-guessing and start making moves.

Healthcare business and information systems fields are booming. With Parker University’s flexible, online programs, you can stop doom-scrolling job boards and start securing a stable, in-demand career. Whether you’re launching something new or leveling up your current path, we’ve got the roadmap.

Lead Where it Counts: Behind the Scenes of Better Care

Not everyone is meant to hold a stethoscope. Some of us are wired to lead the systems, strategies, and data behind the scenes, and healthcare needs us just as much. Parker University’s Healthcare Business and Information Systems programs are built for people who like solving problems, managing processes, and making smart things happen. If you’re more into optimizing workflows than drawing blood, this is where you thrive. And unlike some career choices, this one actually feels simple.

Two Smart Paths. One Clear Direction.

Path 1: BS in Health Information Management (HIM)

Healthcare depends on fast, accurate, and secure data with professionals who can manage it. In Parker University’s HIM program, you’ll learn to organize, protect, and use patient data to improve care delivery, ensure compliance, and lead information systems that keep healthcare running smoothly.

Why it’s an easy choice:

Data is the backbone of modern healthcare, and this degree sets you up to manage it with confidence, clarity, and leadership.

Program outcomes:

Career outlets:

Path 2: MBA in Healthcare Business Management

Advance your career and your impact. This MBA prepares you to lead entire healthcare organizations with skill and strategy. You’ll master operations, finance, policy, and big-picture system thinking, equipping you to make bold, informed decisions that move healthcare forward.

Why it’s an easy choice:

Healthcare needs sharp, forward-thinking leaders, and this program gives you the real-world tools to become one.

Program highlights:

Career paths:

What You’ll Be Ready to Tackle

Parker University graduates show up ready to solve problems. From day one, you’ll be ready to step into some of healthcare’s biggest challenges and start solving them with confidence, clarity, and real-world skills. Here’s what you’ll be prepared to take on:

Disconnected health systems? You’ll build smarter, more connected care.

When hospitals, clinics, and insurance companies don’t talk to each other, patients feel it. With the right tools and training, you’ll help build smoother systems that make sure data flows where it needs to, quickly, securely, and without the usual headaches.

Inconsistent records? You’ll bring clarity to patient care.

Health records are the backbone of good care. When they’re wrong or hard to access, patients suffer delays in care. Parker University’s HIM program teaches you to keep data accurate, private, and easy to access, so care teams have what they need, when they need it.

Cybersecurity threats? You’ll protect what matters most.

Patient data is a target, and healthcare needs people who can help protect it. You’ll learn how to spot vulnerabilities, tighten security, and act fast when threats arise. You’ll help ensure patients can trust the systems designed to protect their health.

Inefficient operations? You’ll streamline the process.

From long wait times to overwhelmed staff, healthcare operations need smart, strategic leadership. With a Parker University MBA, you’ll know how to lead teams, streamline processes, and improve the day-to-day experience for everyone involved.

Public health challenges? You’ll help shape bold solutions.

Whether it’s advancing policy, launching community wellness programs, or responding to emerging health crises, Parker University grads are ready to think big. With a foundation in data, leadership, and people-first care, you’ll be equipped to take action and make it count.

Your Next Move Has Never Been More Clear

Parker University HIM and MBA grads leave with more than a degree; they leave with direction. You’ll gain the leadership skills, tech expertise, and strategic mindset to take on real-world challenges in today’s healthcare landscape. These programs are designed to turn ambition into action, with flexible learning and a clear path to advancement. No guesswork or wasted steps, just steady progress toward a career that’s stable, in-demand, and built to make a difference.

Whether you’re heading into an interview or stepping into a promotion, you’ll stand out as exactly the kind of leader healthcare needs. It’s not just a smart career move. It’s a clear one.

Request more information or talk to a Parker University advisor and take the first step toward a future you don’t have to question.

 

Accreditation: Parker University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. Parker University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Parker University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679- 4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

Parker University is proud to recognize its first Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR) graduate, Dr. Deborah Wright, DC, MS.

Parker University’s MSCR degree requires an extensive program of study and research experience designed for researchers and health professionals who plan to oversee clinical trials as investigators, study coordinators, and site managers. The Parker University curriculum provides students with a comprehensive understanding of clinical research methodology, biostatistics, research ethics, and regulatory principles.

For Dr. Wright, choosing Parker University was based on the combination of the people and the program. “Being a full-time clinician and having young kids, I wanted a program that could work around my busy schedule,” Dr. Wright says. “The MSCR program at Parker University fit that bill, but it was really the people that locked me in. When I learned who was running the program and who would be teaching and mentoring me, it was an easy choice.”

Dr. Wright was looking to get into doing research but needed to know more about all the things she didn’t know before setting off. She also wanted to collaborate with the researchers at Parker University who were working and researching in fields that interested her. And the Parker University MSCR program provided her with the perfect opportunity to do both.

After more than 20 years in practice and having completed 20 years of advocacy for her profession (most recently as Chair of the Canadian Chiropractic Association), Dr. Wright sought to add something new and challenging to her already rewarding career. “I have always admired researchers and had the opportunity to work closely with them both in my advocacy positions and as a data collector in my practice for several studies. I wanted to start researching to supplement my clinical role and to be able to contribute meaningfully to this profession in the years to come,” Dr. Wright shares.

When it comes to professional goals and research, Dr. Wright strives to work with exceptional people and help contribute to the vast knowledge base of the chiropractic profession. “I want to contribute to changing the conversation about substantial issues in this field,” she says.

Dr. Wright worked with Dr. Katie Pohlman, Director of Parker University’s Research Center, on a patient safety project for the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) as part of her graduation requirements. Drs. Wright and Pohlman’s work was titled “Patient Safety Culture Research within the Chiropractic Profession: A Scoping Review.”

Dr. Wright says that one of the highlights of working on this patient safety project for the WFC was the team she had the opportunity to work with. She recognizes that she was given a great project and was part of a supportive team that helped guide her along the way. “I want to give a big shout-out to Dr. Pohlman, who answered every insane question that I had with patience and grace. Being able to learn through coursework during this degree and then implement those skills seamlessly in my project was invaluable. It resulted in me being set up perfectly to get the job done,” Dr. Wright says.

Dr. Wright admires that Parker University takes research so seriously and has put together a fantastic team that is doing phenomenal work. She is passionate about shifting the conversation around patient safety in chiropractic. “This project has given me the ability to be involved in this process and to learn from people with such expertise in this field,” she says.

A highlight for Dr. Wright was being given the trust and mandate by her team to present this work to the chiropractic profession at the WFC Biennial Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark. “That was my first experience being the presenter of research (not the conference attendee), and it didn’t disappoint,” Dr. Wright shares.

To anyone considering Parker University’s MSCR degree, Dr. Wright says the program prepares students to enter the world of research and connects them with the people who can guide them along the way. “I would also say that you get out of it what you put into it. There are numerous opportunities to connect with others, explore ongoing research, and contribute to projects. Take advantage of it all,” she adds.

Will you be the next Parker University student honored for branching out and taking advantage of the incredible opportunities provided by the university? There is no time like the present.

Learn more about Parker University’s online MSCR program here.

The day you have somewhat impatiently waited weeks for is finally here. As you sit in the room at your doctor’s office, your sonographer enters and introduces themselves. The sonographer’s confident demeanor is helpful for your nerves!

Your sonographer quickly pulls up amazing images reflected from your belly to the screen on the wall in front of you. Suddenly, the sight of that little human you can’t wait to meet shows up on the screen in front of you. Smiles stretch across both your faces.

Your sonographer confirms what you already knew – there is a little bitty baby on board! Through images and the sonographer’s educated explanation, you can finally see the baby’s tiny form.

Your sonographer is here to check things out before you meet with the doctor who will be monitoring you for the next nine months. While there are many types of sonographers, at the OBGYN, your diagnostic sonographer’s job is to do an early check to make sure things look normal with your new, tiny baby. Using advanced technology that utilizes high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound), this sonographer can monitor the baby’s heart rate, size, surrounding fluid levels, and make sure there are no detectable abnormalities.

By simply doing their job, this sonographer has just played a part in one of your life-changing memories.

Why Parker University’s Diagnostic Sonography Program?

Can you see yourself behind the screen, delivering this kind of great news to patients? The profession of Diagnostic Sonography is a general ultrasound program specializing in abdomen and OBGYN, so this program could be perfect for you!

Parker University provides high-caliber, CAAHEP-accredited sonography students with small class sizes led by dedicated, experienced professionals who have seen the impact of sonography firsthand in the field. These professionals know how to master the diagnostic techniques required to approach a wide variety of critical sonography issues in the medical field.

Every Parker University student is prepared to become an industry leader through a unique on-campus program featuring thorough education, real-world experience, and research-based techniques. The Diagnostic Sonography program provides students with the academic and clinical knowledge needed for a successful healthcare career. The program prepares future sonographers to think critically and problem-solve at the highest level. Students are more than trained to meet the required examination protocol and technical needs. Parker University’s focused coursework prepares students for the certification examination required to become registered sonographers.

Know Your Stuff!

Diagnostic medical sonographers work closely with doctors, nurses, and patients ranging from infants to the elderly.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, sonography is projected to grow by 10 percent through 2031. By 2031, 14,700 new jobs are projected for diagnostic medical sonographers.

Join us at Parker University – Make Your Dream a Reality

Parker University graduates obtaining a Diagnostic Sonography degree are 100% prepared to start their career as sonographers at locations including:

Through constant innovation and an impulse to serve, Parker University students elevate healthcare education. Together, we are in the pursuit of higher health! Are you ready to start your future? Do you want to make a real difference through your work? Go to parker.edu today to learn more and get started!

Rachel Simpkins, a Parker University Lab Coordinator and Instructor of Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography, is also a student in the Bachelor of Science in Integrative Health program. She recently completed her Capstone project focusing on various musculoskeletal issues often faced by sonographers. As new sonographers enter this exciting field, it is essential for them to understand all the potential treatment options available to them, such as chiropractic, massage, Pilates, occupational therapy, etc. Check it out!

Sonography is the practice of scanning patients using sound waves to visualize patient anatomy and disease processes. Sonographers work to find the information physicians need to diagnose patients with a various symptoms. Not only do these professionals need to understand and be able to understand the physiology of the organ they are scanning, but they also have to manipulate their bodies into positions that cause pain to gain these specific images. Integrative healthcare areas have been proven to help patients in pain, but which of these areas most benefit the pain of the sonographer?

The Beginning

Musculoskeletal issues have long been an issue for practicing sonographers. These pains were first reported in a public forum in 1985 and have been discussed throughout the workday in hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices daily (Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, n.d.). Sonographers, unfortunately, are used to living in pain. We now call them Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMD)s.

First called “Sonographer’s Shoulder,” these disorders can affect muscles, nerves, ligaments, and tendons (Murphy, 2017). These WRMDs happen due to the repetitive nature of sonography maneuvers needed to complete a diagnostic examination. Over time, these small tears and strenuous activity take a big toll on the sonographer and their ability to function in their career. According to the statistics, 80-95% of sonographers experience work-related pain. 90% experience pain for more than half of their careers and 20% of sonographers sustain a career-ending work-related injury (Morrison, n.d.).

An explanation of WRMDs as they relate to sonographers is due to several reasons. The length of a proper exam can last anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes. While the sonographer is scanning, pressure must be applied to the probe and sustained for the entire duration of the exam. This isometric positioning causes an immense amount of strain on arm muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Another factor is the increase in portable exams. These exams are ordered to be completed at the bedside for patient comfort. While this is a wonderful addition to patient-centered healthcare, it takes a toll on the sonographer, who is now dealing with a much larger bed and machines to work around. When scanning in a more ergonomic area, such as an outpatient room, the technologists can maneuver and gain some use of ergonomics. In the patient’s hospital room, this is much more of a challenge even after transporting the ultrasound machine to this location.

There have been improvements made in sonographer comfort. These have come from machine companies and workstation equipment manufacturers, but not all sites have the luxury of this equipment. There are still too many scanning areas that go without daily. Also, technological changes in workflow have given way to an increase in digital patient charts and files, and the added strain of more computer work and the issues that come along with it. Staff shortages due to injuries and insufficient rest periods between exams, push the sonographer’s exposure to these musculoskeletal disorders even further (Murphy, 2017).

Treatment

Usually, sonographers or the public will seek out the advice of their general practitioner. Most of the treatment options include warm compresses and some form of painkillers ranging from ibuprofen to muscle relaxers. The problem is that this form of treatment may work for a short amount of time, but not for the chronic pain of daily scanning. Ibuprofen by itself should never be taken for an extended period and definitely not daily. So, what other treatment options does a practicing sonographer have?

Integrative healthcare has helped many individuals in many professions to become pain-free in their daily lives. Could some of these alternative medicine methods help the pain of a sonographer as well? There are various types of this form of medicine.

Chiropractic care has been praised by many of its patients for the relief of back and shoulder pain. Cervical spine manipulation can offer much relief from the daily strains of sonography work. The American College of Physicians (ACP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) created a guide to provide recommendations for musculoskeletal injuries in adults in the outpatient setting. This guidance is based on the current best available evidence about the benefits and harms of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic care for MSK injuries. This guide found that joint manipulation therapy reduced patient pain for less than 2 hours after treatment (Qaseem et al., 2020).

This source of pain relief appears to be effective, but only for an allotted amount of time. While this is a better option health-wise than NSAIDs, it still lacks the need for chronic pain relief of the working sonographer.

Massage therapy is another alternative medicine area that has been shown to affect the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system by promoting a relaxation response, decrease in muscle tension, and decreased muscle (Engen et al., 2010). Researchers at the Mayo Clinic established a study questioning the effects of chair massage on muscular discomfort in cardiac sonographers. Fifteen participants engaged in a 30-minute massage once weekly for 10 weeks. The pilot study found that the groups that participated in the massage therapy found an improvement in the relief of work-related pain but indicated that further research of more participants over a longer period of time was needed to unequivocally come to a conclusion regarding these forms of alternative medicine (Engen et al., 2010). This seems to be a promising pain-relieving option, but the amount of time after the massage, that a sonographer is pain-free, would be more a testament to the effectiveness of massage for sonographers.

In the journey of finding pain relief, another integrative heath option was noticed. Occupational therapy involves helping a patient to improve multiple areas in their life, including physical conditions, to increase the performance of their daily activities. These can include activity analysis, adaptive equipment, environmental modifications, assistive technology, therapeutic exercise, and patient education and training (Anonymous, 2023). For many, these changes that are taught to them can help the patient overcome obstacles in their daily lives. In sonography, a list of stretches is taught and meant to be utilized at the beginning and end of a shift or when the sonographer is in pain. Added to this are recommendations for ergonomic scanning. With evaluation from an occupational therapist or assistant, sonographers can position themselves when scanning to reduce the risk of injury. Some published stretches include the overhead reach, thumbs back reach, and head to shoulder reach (Roozen and Wuebben, 2022). A systematic review by Tater and Truluck (2017) of the literature was performed to determine whether sonographers taught to use proper body mechanics, stretching, and/or therapeutic techniques experience less pain. The results suggest that education workshops and stretching techniques have the potential to benefit sonographers. Sonographers who incorporate stretching into the workday may experience a reduction in pain.

Unfortunately, occupational therapy practitioners are commonly overlooked in the research and development of comprehensive pain management teams compared with fellow non-pharmacological providers (Reeves et al., 2022). This can be said for most of the alternative medical care that is available.

Yet another helpful tool in our quest may be Pilates. This form of muscle-strengthening focuses on core muscles. It is a low-intensity type of workout that promotes flexibility, posture, and mobility. Pilates classes can help keep the body in alignment. Your body alignment determines how evenly your head, shoulders, spine, hips, knees, and ankles line up with one another. In a properly aligned body, your bones are evenly positioned across your body, helping your joints and muscles work freely and properly. A misaligned body puts extreme pressure on the muscles, joints, and ligaments in your spine and other areas, forcing them to work in overdrive to support your everyday movement. This can lead to chronic pain, headaches, general stiffness, reduced mobility, and several other problems that could severely impact your everyday life (Circle Health Group, 2024). Having a stronger core can inadvertently set the sonographer up with better ergonomic positions to use when scanning.

Chiropractic care, massage therapy, occupational therapy, and Pilates all provide a degree of pain relief from sonography work. As to what works best, that may be a very individual choice. The evidence leans more in favor of occupational therapy stretches with a solid Pilates base since those are to be utilized daily throughout the workday. Knowing this, the repetition of the practice may be what is more important. If it were possible to get adjusted or have a massage daily, instead of once per week, it could produce the same results. That frequency is, unfortunately, just not possible.

Finding and utilizing the correct integrative health area for the sonographer, with the frequency that is right for their workload, would produce the best outcome. In pursuing a sonographer’s pain-free scanning, may the best complementary alternative medicine prevail!

References

Anonymous. (2023, October 25). St. Catherine University. https://otaonline.stkate.edu/blog/6-occupational-therapy-interventions/

Circle Health Group. (2024, January 17). Why you should take up Pilates in 2024. https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/health-matters/exercise-and-fitness/pilates

Engen, D. J., Wahner-Roedler, D. L., Nadolny, A. M., Persinger, C. M., Oh, J. K., Spittell, P. C., Loehrer, L. L., Cha, S. S., & Bauer, B. A. (2010). The effect of chair massage on muscular discomfort in cardiac sonographers: a pilot study. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 10, 50. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-10-50

Morrison, B. (n.d.). Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Sonographers [PowerPoint slides]. College of Medicine, University of Maryland. https://www.hagerstowncc.edu/sites/default/files/documents/17-coned-cardiac17-musculoskeletal-disorders.pdf

Murphey, S. (2017). Work related musculoskeletal disorders in Sonography. Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 33(5), 354–369. https://doi.org/10.1177/8756479317726767

Reeves, L., Sako, M., Malloy, J., Goldstein, A., & Bennett, K. (2022, May 2). Role of occupational therapy in comprehensive integrative pain management. Aota.org. https://www.aota.org/practice/practice-essentials/quality/quality-resources/role-of-ot-pain-management

Roozen, M., & Wuebben, D. (2022, October 1). Reach for Relief: Eliminating Neck and Shoulder Pain. Cardioserv. https://www.cardioserv.net/sonographers-the-pain-factor/

Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders. (n.d.). https://www.sdms.org/resources/careers/work-related-musculoskeletal-disorders

Tator, C. F., & Truluck, C. (2017). Musculoskeletal pain relief in sonographers: A systematic review of the effects of therapeutic techniques. Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, 33(5), 420–426. https://doi.org/10.1177/8756479317721673

Qaseem, A., McLean, R. M., O’Gurek, D., Batur, P., Lin, K., & Kansagara, D. L. (2020). Nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic management of acute pain from non–low back, musculoskeletal injuries in adults: A clinical guideline from the American College of Physicians and American Academy of Family Physicians. Annals of Internal Medicine, 173(9), 739–748. https://doi.org/10.7326/m19-3602

What makes Parker University unique? Its students! Our students are ambitious, compassionate, energetic, and prepared … along with having so many other admirable attributes! Parker University students stand out, as they graduate prepared for their chosen career, remain passionate about their futures, and are equipped with the techniques and knowledge gained through firsthand, real-world experience.

Students in Parker University’s popular Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management (HIM) online program learn to properly collect, integrate, and analyze healthcare information to advance vital healthcare services and systems. Mastering the business aspect of healthcare systems prepares these students to be educated leaders.

Parker University’s HIM program focuses on healthcare data and the management of healthcare information resources. The profession addresses the complex nature, structure, and translation of data into usable forms of information including the electronic health record for the advancement of health and healthcare of individuals and populations.

HIM professionals collect, integrate, and analyze primary and secondary healthcare data, disseminate critical information, and manage information resources related to the research, planning, provision, and evaluation of healthcare services. HIM professionals are an integral part of the overall planning, implementation, and utilization of electronic health record systems.

Education in Action

Rita Mbachick, a Parker University HIM program student, has been chosen for the prestigious Virtual Student Federal Service (VSFS) program within the HIM sector, administered by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

The VSFS is an eInternship program for U.S. citizen students (college-level and above) to work on global projects throughout the U.S. government. VSFS is managed by the Office of eDiplomacy in the U.S. Department of State’s Information Resource Management Bureau. Through VSFS, the government benefits from a new generation and U.S. citizen students who can help advance national priorities on projects around the world.

Ms. Mbachick’s educational journey began in 2017. She shares, “Though I encountered obstacles along the way, I remained determined not to abandon my aspirations. Despite setbacks, I persevered, and now, nearing the completion of my current program, I aspire to pursue further education, aiming for a master’s and potentially a PhD!”

The culmination of her hard work and efforts materialized with an offer from the VHA through the VSFS program, marking a significant milestone along the road of her academic and professional journey. Ms. Mbachick shares, “Throughout this process, the unwavering support and encouragement from my program director has played a pivotal role in my academic endeavors, fostering my dedication at Parker University, and ultimately leading to this prestigious internship opportunity at the VA!”

Parker University students are exposed to a variety of opportunities through their reputable education, regardless of the program. Congratulations, Ms. Mbachick! Thank you for representing Parker University in such a positive, professional way, and acting as a great inspiration for students.

To learn about the doctorate, graduate, and undergraduate programs available at Parker University, visit parker.edu.

An alumna of the 2020 class, Tonja Grimes, RHIA, CCHP, now the Health Information Management (HIM) director for two healthcare facilities, recently offered exclusive insight into what an HIM career really looks like!

Can You Relate to Tonja’s Story?

Tonja was a teenage mother when she first started college, eventually dropping out. She re-enrolled at the age of 32. She started at San Jacinto College and earned her associate degree. During a conference, Tonja met Parker University HIM Program Director Joe Lintz, whose unique insights into Parker University piqued her interest. “Drawn to the unique structure of their classes, I decided to transition to Parker University to complete my bachelor’s degree,” Tonja says.

Tonja is passionate about the HIM program because it aligns perfectly with her innate drive to solve puzzles and her analytical thought process. With a constant stream of challenges and complexities to unravel, whether ensuring accurate coding, maintaining data integrity, or navigating regulatory requirements, she says, “I find immense satisfaction in delving into these intricacies, applying my analytical skills to solve problems, and ultimately contributing to the efficient management of health information. It’s a field where I can continuously learn and grow while making a meaningful impact on patient care and healthcare delivery.”

Parker University’s One-of-a-Kind Online HIM Program – Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree on Your Schedule

Parker University’s Bachelor of Science with a major in HIM program is integrated with existing programs to provide a leading health and wellness education resource. The HIM program focuses on Health Information Technology, Medical Coding and Classification, Data Privacy and Security, Health Information Management Principles, and Legal and Ethical Considerations.

This degree provides additional educational opportunities and contributes toward filling the need for HIM personnel in the ever-changing job market. It prepares students to work in the real-life HIM profession, which focuses on healthcare data and the management of healthcare information resources. The profession addresses the nature, structure, and translation of data into usable forms of information, including electronic health records for advancing health, and the healthcare of individuals and populations. HIM professionals collect, integrate, and analyze primary and secondary healthcare data, disseminate information, and manage information resources related to the research, planning, provision, and evaluation of healthcare services. HIM professionals (could be you!) are integral to the planning, implementation, and utilization of electronic health record systems.

In addition, Parker University’s HIM graduates can sit for the national certification examination to become a Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA).

As a standout perk, Parker University’s HIM program offers an opportunity for individuals like Tonja who are eager to pursue higher education while managing other commitments, such as work or family responsibilities. Tonja says, “One of the standout features of Parker University’s program is its flexibility, which allows students to complete their bachelor’s degree while continuing to work. This program allows individuals to explore firsthand the different facets of HIM and find a niche that aligns with their interests, skills, and personality traits.”

Learn It. Live It.

Tonja’s combination of education, experience, leadership skills, problem-solving abilities, innovative thinking, and commitment to excellence helped her excel in her current role as the HIM director. Tonja shares, “I love teaching. I believe teaching goes hand in hand with leadership. I enjoy my job every day. I work for an amazing facility, Midland Memorial Health Hospital, with a ‘mission of leading healthcare for the greater Midland community.’”

As the HIM director at a 580-bed inpatient hospital, Tonja oversees a range of critical functions that ensure the efficient management and integrity of health information. “My responsibilities encompass several key areas, including Coding Management, Release of Information, Birth Registry, and Data Integrity. I collaborate closely with other departments and stakeholders to support the hospital’s overall goals and optimize the use of health information for patient care, research, and administrative purposes,” Tonja shares.

If you pursue a career in HIM, every day on the job will look different. Whether you’re delving into the intricacies of medical coding, navigating complex regulatory requirements, or collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize health information systems, every day on the job provides new challenges and opportunities for your professional growth.

Parker University’s HIM program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and versatility required to successfully carve out fulfilling and impactful careers. Whether you specialize in a specific area or embrace a lifelong journey of learning and development, the HIM field offers unlimited possibilities for professional fulfillment and advancement.

What’s the Wait?

Now, just like Tonja proved, it’s your turn to make a change and pursue all the future has in store for you. Can you see yourself as a Parker University graduate pursuing a successful career in HIM? We can too!

To learn more about Parker University’s versatile online HIM program, click here!

Through Parker University’s popular Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, alumni Kari Howard COTA saw her dream of becoming a nurse transform into a developed passion for being an OTA. After spending more than two decades as a devoted mom and crafting enthusiast, a fate-fueled conversation redirected Kari’s path to her OTA career, which changed her journey immensely.

Time for a Change

Kari was blessed with her dream job when she had her daughter and then son and became a stay-at-home mom. For the next 20 years, she raised kids, volunteered at church and schools, and tried her hand at all things “artsy-craftsy.” When her youngest child was in high school, Kari decided it was time to choose what she wanted to be when she grew up. “I thought about becoming a nurse, so I asked a friend if she had it all to do over again what she would choose to pursue. Immediately, she answered back with ‘OTA!’”

However, Kari had never even heard of OTAs. Her friend fondly described the career as one that required creative problem-solving but also greatly helped and healed people. That’s all it took to convince her to pursue this newfound career. “When I started my first class at Parker University, I thought this would be easy. I already had one degree. Within a few weeks, I learned that I would work harder for my OTA degree than for my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree,” Kari says.

Throughout her journey at Parker University, Kari did not see her future self working with children or making a career that involved home health. Fast forward to January 2020, when Kari had a last-minute opportunity to go on a medical mission trip to Uganda. “We came back just as COVID forced the world to social distance. I took my National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam on the last day in March that the testing center was still open. I didn’t have to find a job immediately because there were none to be found!” Kari shares.

During the pandemic, there were no elective surgeries taking place, which meant there really would be no knee, hip, or shoulder rehabilitation jobs looking for OTAs. Kari says, “By July, I started getting antsy, seeing that every job required at least a year of experience. I had to take a job. Any job! A student from my class raved about pediatric home health and encouraged me to give it a try. It turns out I like kids more than I thought, and I love the flexibility of home health!”

Learn It – Live It!

A post-graduation trip to Uganda in 2020 reshaped Kari’s perspective on the crucial role OTAs play worldwide – from villages and remote locations to rehabilitation centers and patients’ homes.

After returning and working with children again for two years, Kari realized she could go back to Uganda. This time, instead of sitting at the front of a room talking to mothers of malnourished babies, she could sit in the back of the room and be one of the people working with the babies! It didn’t take long for her to start making lists, plans, and goals for an upcoming trip.

By 2023, now a pediatric COTA, Kari returned to Uganda on another mission trip, actively providing what some might call “OTA interventions” by aiding malnourished infants, teaching mothers by using simple tools, and sharing OTA skills with local clinics. Her team spent 19 days in two different malnutrition clinics. “I assessed the babies’ gross developmental milestones and offered ways moms can help their children regain and attain delayed skills. I acted out the early stages of development, just like we did in PEDS class, by rolling around on the floor, which was hilarious to the Ugandans!” Kari shares. “I demonstrated how to make simple toys from water bottles and taught these mothers how to play and interact with their babies. I collaborated with doctors and nurses, sharing OTA practices and how they can educate parents.”

Moses, the manager at one of the clinics Kari visited, is now developing vocational training programs that these mothers attend during the time their child is admitted. In addition to caring for their sick children, these mothers can learn about preparing nutrient-rich meals, gardening, self-care, and marketable skills. Kari says, “I shared the roots of my role as an OTA with Moses. His programs are essentially occupational therapy for the mothers’ mental and physical health!”

Living the Dream

After often sporting a t-shirt that jokingly read, “Occupational Therapy – nobody knows what we do,” Kari now has an inspirational story to share with aspiring OTAs that wonderfully demonstrates what exactly you can achieve as an OTA, including changing lives, educating others, sharing resources, and healing.

From Parker University to Uganda, Kari has most definitely found her true career calling. Parker University applauds all the great work and service Kari and so many other graduates provide to people around the world!

To learn more about Parker University’s prestigious OTA program, click here!

Typical Chiropractic Hours

The daily work hours for a chiropractor vary from one office to the next. Many hired professionals work a 9-to-5 schedule. However, those chiropractors who own their own practice often work extended hours.

Many professionals work later into the night and on weekends to accommodate working patients. Chiropractors are often “on-call,” as well.

While they don’t make emergency visits, they check emails, text messages, and voicemails from patients or other doctors outside their normal working hours.

Rush hour at a chiropractic office is generally in the morning and at night. That’s because the majority of patients are working adults.

A Doctor of Chiropractic’s Workflow

There’s no magic number of patients that a chiropractor sees every day. Some chiropractors see between 30 and 50 patients a day, while others might see 100.

Most chiropractic offices have several exam rooms, which are usually all filled at once. This means the doctor is juggling several patients at a time, making the job both mentally and physically taxing.

General chiropractors treat a wide range of conditions including chronic back and neck pain, headaches, injuries, sinus infections, and even hormone imbalance.

While many patients are there for follow-up visits, chiropractors have to consult with new patients. This takes extra time and attention.

A doctor of chiropractic (DC) will ask a variety of questions to help diagnose the patient and settle on a treatment plan. They may also perform diagnostic testing or an exam in addition to offering therapy.

Chiropractic Care is Labor-Intensive

One major misconception about the life of a chiropractor is that it’s easy to just crack a few backs and move on with your day. The truth is, this profession is very labor-intensive.

Chiropractors are on their feet a majority of the day. Diagnosing and then performing therapy and manipulations on a patient takes quite a bit of physical effort.

Not to mention, DCs treat patients of all shapes and sizes. It’s not always easy to get the proper leverage on a patient twice your size!

Chiropractors need to be flexible and strong to properly perform their job.

Patient Communication is Key for DCs

The life of a chiropractor is more than just manual manipulation. While this is the basis of their educational and professional careers, communicating with patients is equally as important.

Chiropractors need to be clear with patients about their treatment plan, as well as what will happen during their visit. They must also talk extensively with patients to determine the source or cause of their pain and discomfort.

Chiropractors also teach patients how to better take care of themselves and prevent future injuries.

The Life of a Chiropractor is Rewarding

If you’ve decided to enter the healthcare field, you already know that your job will be equal parts intense and rewarding. The life of a chiropractor is no different.

Although chiropractors don’t often treat medical emergencies, they’re highly skilled in offering patients much-needed pain relief.

Does this sound like a career option for you? If so, check out Parker University’s ultimate guide to becoming a chiropractor to learn more!