Tonya Bates, MSML, RHIA, CHPS, CC
Biography
Tonya L. Bates, MSML, RHIA, CHPS, CC, is a seasoned health information management, compliance, privacy, and security leader with more than 20 years of progressive experience across provider, academic, vendor, and corporate healthcare settings. She currently serves as Compliance, Privacy, and Security Officer at Enjoin, where she leads enterprise initiatives in HIPAA compliance, cybersecurity governance, risk management, workforce development, and organizational policy. Throughout her career, Tonya has led large-scale operational improvements, standardized release of information processes across hospitals and physician practices, advanced information governance programs, and supported initiatives that improved compliance and operational performance. A dedicated AHIMA volunteer leader, she currently serves on the AHIMA Board of Directors and has held numerous leadership roles with Ohio Health Information Management Association (OHIMA) and Northeast Ohio Health Information Management Association (NOHIMA), including President. Her current service on the AHIMA Board of Directors reflects her ongoing commitment to shaping the future of the profession and advancing the strategic priorities of health information leaders nationwide.
Position Statement
AHIMA's core values are Integrity, Bold, and Inclusive. How would you incorporate these into your service if elected to the AHIMA Board of Directors?
AHIMA's core values—Integrity, Bold, and Inclusive—are the foundation of our profession and the compass that guides our evolution in an increasingly complex health information ecosystem. If elected to the AHIMA Board of Directors, I will embed these values into every aspect of my leadership, decision‑making, and service to our members, the broader healthcare community, and the individuals whose health information we are entrusted to protect.
Integrity
Integrity is central to the trust society places in health information professionals. Throughout my 30+ year career, I have upheld the highest standards of ethics, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of compliance, privacy, security, and governance. As a Board member, I will carry this forward by advocating for clear, principled decision-making rooted in AHIMA's mission and Code of Ethics. I will champion policies that protect the confidentiality, accuracy, and appropriate use of health information while ensuring our members have the tools and guidance needed to navigate emerging technologies responsibly. Serving with integrity also means maintaining objectivity, honoring diverse perspectives, and ensuring all decisions reflect what is best for AHIMA's members and the communities we ultimately serve.
Bold
AHIMA must continue to lead boldly as the health information landscape transforms through innovation, automation, artificial intelligence, interoperability, and new care delivery models. Bold leadership is not simply about taking risks—it is about strategically embracing opportunities that strengthen our profession's future relevance and impact. I will support forward‑looking initiatives that elevate AHIMA's visibility as the authoritative voice in health information governance, data ethics, and workforce development. I will advocate for proactive and agile strategies that position AHIMA to anticipate industry shifts, expand our influence, and empower our members to lead in roles that demand advanced skills, critical thinking, and adaptability. Being bold also includes challenging outdated paradigms and championing modernization that benefits both the profession and the patients and communities our work ultimately supports.
Inclusive
Inclusion is essential to cultivating a thriving, representative, and innovative professional community. AHIMA's strength lies in the diversity of its members—spanning roles, backgrounds, expertise, and lived experiences. As a Board member, I will promote inclusive practices that ensure all members feel welcomed, engaged, and heard. This includes supporting equitable access to professional development, leadership pathways, and volunteer opportunities; amplifying the voices of emerging professionals; and fostering environments where differing perspectives are valued and leveraged to fuel stronger decision-making. I am committed to ensuring that AHIMA continues to reflect the communities we serve and advances health information practices that support equitable, person‑centered care.
If re-elected, I will serve with integrity, lead boldly, and promote an inclusive environment that strengthens both AHIMA and the health information profession. I am committed to advancing AHIMA's mission, supporting members across all practice areas.