Meet Angela Campbell, MSHI, RHIA, FAHIMA

Angela Campbell is a dedicated health information (HI) professional whose career has included roles in health plan administration, HIM leadership, consulting, and education. As an assistant professor at San Juan College, she draws on that broad experience to help students connect their learning to real-world practice and professional growth.

Angela has remained active in the health information community through mentoring, volunteering, and service in the AHIMA House of Delegates. Her involvement in workgroups, committees, and speaking engagements has focused on advancing professional development and sharing best practices across the field. At the state level, she has served in multiple leadership roles with ILHIMA and will return to the Board this year as President-Elect. Her work reflects a strong commitment to supporting students and emerging professionals as they explore career pathways and engage with the profession.

A Fellow of AHIMA, Angela is passionate about building strong foundations—whether in the classroom, through mentorship, or by helping shape the future of health information through service and collaboration.

“Mentorship, education, and engagement are not extras. They are the heart of our profession.” – Angela Campbell, MSHI, RHIA, FAHIMA

Challenges and Opportunities in HI

Health information continues to grow in both complexity and impact, creating new challenges—but also exciting opportunities. One of the most pressing concerns today is the increasing need for strong cybersecurity and responsible data governance. As healthcare organizations adopt advanced technologies and AI tools, health information professionals are uniquely positioned to ensure that data is protected, used ethically, and supports patient-centered care.

Another important challenge is visibility. Too often, students and even adults do not fully understand what our profession is or the range of roles it includes. We need to introduce health information as a career option earlier—starting in junior high and high school—by partnering with groups like HOSA and becoming more involved with dual credit and career exploration initiatives.

We also need to expand how we talk about where health information professionals work. While many serve in hospitals and clinics, others contribute in insurance, compliance, consulting, public health, government, education, technology, and nonprofit settings. These roles are sometimes labeled as “non-traditional,” but that label no longer fits. They are part of the profession, and they are essential. Our language should reflect the full scope of what health information professionals do—because all roles are relevant, and all are needed to move the profession forward.

Health information professionals have an incredible opportunity to lead in areas like AI, data integrity, privacy, and quality. The more we engage and educate others about our work, the stronger our future becomes.

Specific Actions You Plan to Take in 2025 to Have Maximum Impact on Healthcare and Patient Care

In 2025, I plan to continue focusing on areas where I can help create meaningful impact—particularly through mentoring, education, and advocacy. Whether I’m teaching, collaborating with peers, or contributing behind the scenes, my goal is to support professionals at all stages of their careers and help prepare a workforce that is confident, informed, and ready to lead.

I also plan to stay involved in advocacy efforts that promote the value of our profession and the ethical use of health information to support better patient care. A key part of that work includes increasing early career awareness by supporting initiatives that introduce students to health information in junior high and high school. By helping others discover the profession earlier and encouraging lifelong engagement, we can build a stronger pipeline of future leaders.

Through continued service, collaboration, and mentoring, I hope to support a profession that is not only ready to meet the demands of a changing healthcare landscape—but is equipped to drive that change with integrity and purpose.

Steps HI Students and Emerging Professionals Can Take in 2025 to Thrive and Advance in the Profession

Start by getting involved. Join your state component association, attend virtual or local events, and take advantage of opportunities to connect with others in the profession. These experiences can help you build confidence, expand your network, and open doors to future opportunities.

Make it a priority to earn your credential after completing your program. It shows that you are prepared, committed, and qualified—and it helps you stand out to potential employers. In addition to certification, consider earning microcredentials. These shorter, focused credentials highlight specialized skills and can often be combined to reflect broader expertise, even while you’re still in school.

Seek out a mentor. A trusted mentor can offer guidance, encouragement, and a real-world perspective to help you navigate your career path. You are not alone in this journey and connecting with someone who has been where you are can make a lasting difference.

Stay curious and embrace lifelong learning. Our profession continues to evolve with advancements in technology, artificial intelligence, and informatics. Be open to new ideas, take initiative, and keep exploring ways to grow.

Anything Additional You’d Like to Include

I am incredibly proud to be part of this profession. The impact health information professionals have on healthcare is often behind the scenes—but it is essential. Whether we are supporting data accuracy, protecting privacy, improving quality, or mentoring future professionals, our work makes a difference.

Some of the most rewarding moments in my career have come from watching students grow into confident professionals who go on to lead, teach, and mentor others. That cycle of support and growth is something truly special about this field.

No matter where you are in your journey or what setting you choose to work in, there is a place for you in health information. Every role contributes to the strength of our profession. Stay engaged, keep learning, and know that your contribution is making a difference. And if you have experience to share, consider becoming a mentor. You never know the impact your support might have on someone just getting started.