English Language Learners and RHIT/RHIA Exam Success

English Language Learners (ELL) can face unique challenges in academics and testing due to language barriers. These challenges can affect learners' success on standardized certification exams, including those for Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) and Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) certifications. This research study aimed to outline the specific challenges ELL graduates experience with the RHIT or RHIA exam.

This research study collected both qualitative and quantitative data through a survey sent by email to graduates of a Baccalauraate program in Health Information (HI) at Illinois State University and an Associate program in HI at Central Arizona College.

Seventy-one (21.8%) graduates responded to the survey; nine (12.7%) self-identified as ELL. Of those, eight completed the survey. Of five graduates who did not pass on the first attempt, four (80.0%) were not able to complete the exam in the time allotted. Of those, one (25.0%) stated they completed approximately 75% of the exam and three (75.0%) stated they completed more than 75% of the exam. Of all eight respondents, two (25.0%) felt that time did not affect their ability to do their best on the exam, five (62.5%) felt as though time affected their ability to do their best on the exam, and one (12.5%) did not know how time affected their ability to do their best. Five respondents (63%) felt the format of the questions affected their ability to do their best on the exam. Of the graduates who did not pass on the first attempt (five; 62.5%), one did not retake the exam (one; 20.0%) and four did retake it (four; 80.0%). Of the four graduates who retook the exam, two passed (two; 50.0%) and two did not pass (two; 50.0%).

While the survey respondent pool was small, results highlight a potential need to consider accommodations for ELL RHIT/RHIA test takers, including extra time on the exam or translation options. In addition, additional preparation could be provided for ELL students and graduates to support their success.