New HIMT program awards first degree

Christian Krah of Green Bay crossed the Weidner Center stage during Saturday’s mid-year commencement to accept the first bachelor’s degree awarded through UW-Green Bay’s new Health Information Management and Technology program.

The program launched in fall 2012 in conjunction with partner campuses UW-Parkside, UW-La Crosse and UW-Stevens Point. It responds to growing demand for professionals able to use new technology and data management tools to improve health care delivery.

As part of his program of study, Krah under took an internship with Bellin Health, working with the provider’s decision-support team to help develop software applications aimed at improving service to patients.

Tailored for adult learners, the Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management and Technology (HIMT) focuses on the information sector of the healthcare industry and new advances in health-related technologies, patient records and more.

Prof. Susan Gallagher-Lepak, chair of the Professional Program in Nursing at UW-Green Bay, serves as chair of the HIMT Executive Committee, while faculty colleague Brenda Tyczkowski is the HIMT academic director.