OHIMA Opposes AHIMA Recertification Update

January 2024 Update: Consider signing the PETITION opposing 40% requirement!   AHIMA is rolling out a series of updates to the Recertification Guidelines. The changes include new ways to earn CEUs, a CEU rollover advantage, and a requirement that a minimum of 40% of CEUs must come directly from AHIMA resources. The Component Associations (i.e. state associations including OHIMA) and its three regional/local associations (Northwest, Northeast, and Southwest Ohio HIM Associations) are not included in this 40%. 40% of CEUs must come directly from AHIMA. The remaining 60% of CEUs can come from component associations and other third-party education providers. Please visit AHIMA’s dedicated Recertification webpage to learn more about the change and/or download the AHIMA Recertification Policy FAQ.   OHIMA and other state associations have received many concerns from credentialed health information professionals regarding this change. The concerns are of such a magnitude that OHIMA joined forces with twenty-seven other CAs to submit a written letter to AHIMA. This letter voiced our opposition to the new requirement that 40% of CEUs must come directly from AHIMA as it does not include the partnering Component Associations and other AHIMA ACEP (Approved Continuing Education Program) providers. It will also significantly impact the fiscal viability of OHIMA to provide local and affordable education and networking – which is part of our mission as a state component association. This letter was submitted to AHIMA on November 29, 2023. Several other CAs have since signed on to the letter.   Read the Letter from CAs   AHIMA responded to our letter on December 14, 2023 stating that, after carefully considering the feedback received, CCHIIM voted to defer implementation of the 40% AHIMA CEU requirement until no earlier than January 1, 2025. Per AHIMA, this "decision was made to give certificate holders ample time to understand the changes and plan accordingly. Over the next several months [AHIMA] will provide additional information and support to ensure they’re prepared once this change goes into effect. The 2024 Recertification Guide will be available on the AHIMA website by no later than December 22. Please refer to the guide for additional information regarding all changes." Read AHIMA's Full Response   The OHIMA Board will continue to represent our members and all AHIMA credentialed health information professionals in opposing this change because separating the component associations from AHIMA in this requirement removes the members’ choice in where they obtain continuing education to meet their recertification needs.   If you, as a member of AHIMA and OHIMA, would like to voice your opposition to this change – a template has been provided below (in Word so it can be customized) to contact AHIMA.   Member Letter Template   Stay tuned for additional information regarding this situation. Feel free to reach out to OHIMA's Senior Executive Director, Lauren Manson, RHIA, CAE at ohima@ohima.org should have you have questions.