Elizabeth (Liz) Grimmett, Final year Health Information Management student at the Queensland University of Technology
What are your background and interests and how did these lead to your enrolment in the in Bachelor of HIM?
My path to HIM has not been linear! After graduating with a business degree, I worked in community cultural development and the arts for many years. However, I eventually felt the need for a significant change. This desire was driven by practical considerations – I wanted a more secure career path – as well as personal ones. A few years ago now, our daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia. After her successful treatment, I started re-evaluating where I wanted to put my energy. I was so inspired by the incredible care we had received from the health sector and decided that I wanted to be a part of it. After researching my options, I discovered the HIM degree and felt that it would be a good fit. So, I took a deep breath and jumped in!
What are you enjoying most about the degree?
One of the things I love about the HIM program is how much we get to interact with the industry. From the very first semester, we have had the opportunity to interact with practicing HIMs and visit hospitals and health facilities. The placements have been especially beneficial, and I am now looking forward to my final project at the Jamieson Trauma Institute, where I will be working on managing data processes related to injuries from electronic mobility devices.
Are you a student member of the HIMAA and are you going to (or have you in the past) participated in the mentor program or continuing education events run by the Qld branch? How has participation benefited you?
I became a member of HIMAA during the first weeks of my studies when membership information was distributed in class, and I have really benefited from both the industry networking events. In 2021, I participated in the mentorship program and was matched with a terrific mentor who generously shared her expertise and provided invaluable insights into the inner workings of the industry. I have nominated again to be part of the mentorship program in 2023 and am excited to work with another experienced mentor.
Are you currently working? If so, what are you doing?
I am currently employed part-time as a Clinical Coder at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, having completed a placement at the hospital in 2021 and gaining my position as a result. I’m really enjoying coding in a facility with such a complex and diverse casemix, and with supportive colleagues who help to continually develop my skills.
Where do you see your HIM career taking you in the future?
In the short term, my primary goal is to complete my HIM degree at the end of the year. I am also enjoying my work as a Clinical Coder and am committed to further developing my career in this area. In the longer term, I am keeping an open mind about my future career path and how I might be able to best contribute to the field.
Anything else you would like to add?
I am grateful for the experiences that I have already enjoyed on my HIM journey and am looking forward to continuing my work in a field that makes such a profound difference to so many people.