Erika Parker brings over fifteen years of experience in the health information field. Since 2017, she has served as the Department Chair for the Health Information Technology program at Central Carolina Community College, where she leads curriculum development, fosters student success, and advocates for the advancement of the health information profession.
Before transitioning into academia, Erika spent nearly a decade in the acute care setting, serving in a dual role as manager of the health information management department and privacy officer for a North Carolina health system. In this capacity, she was responsible for overseeing key operational areas, including Coding, Release of Information, Chart Processing, Vital Records, Transcription, and the Cancer Registry, while also managing the organization’s privacy and compliance efforts.
Erika is a dedicated leader in her field and has served in various capacities with the North Carolina Health Information Management Association (NCHIMA), including most recently as Director and Past-President. Her service reflects her ongoing passion for mentoring emerging professionals and shaping the future of health information management.
She holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Health Information Management and Health Services Management, both earned from East Carolina University in 2010. She went on to complete her Master of Health Administration at Pfeiffer University in 2012. Erika is a credentialed Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) and holds the designation of AHIMA-Approved ICD-10-CM/PCS Trainer.
Erika is a passionate advocate for lifelong learning, as well as community and professional service. She brings a blend of practical expertise and forward-thinking leadership to every role she undertakes. She lives in Dunn, North Carolina, with her husband, son, and their family dog.
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?
As a passionate advocate for health information, I am honored to present my candidacy for the AHIMA Board of Directors. If elected, I will focus on advancing the needs of our esteemed membership while championing the continued growth and relevance of our beloved health information profession. Guided by AHIMA's core values of Integrity, Boldness, and Inclusivity, I am committed to serving with purpose and vision.
Integrity is the foundation of trust within our profession. As a Board member, I will prioritize transparent communication and ethical and common-sense decision-making, ensuring that the voices of our members are heard and valued. I will advocate for policies that reflect the highest standards of professionalism and accountability, reinforcing AHIMA's reputation as a trusted leader in health information.
Health information is evolving rapidly, and bold leadership is essential to propel our profession forward. I am committed to embracing innovation, championing new technologies, and supporting professional development initiatives that equip our members with the skills needed for the future. Through bold action and forward-thinking strategies, I aim to support AHIMA at the forefront of healthcare.
Our strength lies in our diversity. I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every member feels valued and empowered. By promoting equitable opportunities for leadership, professional growth, and community engagement, I will work to ensure that AHIMA reflects the richness of our membership, and the patients and communities we serve.
Above all, my service will center on the needs and aspirations of AHIMA members. I believe that by listening to and engaging with our community, we can create meaningful programs and initiatives that support career advancement and professional fulfillment. I am committed to advocating for resources that enhance our members' expertise and promote the critical role of health information professionals in the healthcare ecosystem.
In conclusion, I am passionate about the transformative power of health information and the vital role AHIMA plays in shaping the future of healthcare. With a steadfast commitment to Integrity, Boldness, and Inclusivity, I am eager to serve on the AHIMA Board of Directors to champion the needs of our members and elevate our profession to new heights.