The association's women-majority membership is a testament to women's strong participation in the profession.

The foundation formulates and issues opinions, supports education, conducts research and compiles its contributions into the AHIMA BoK (body of knowledge).

The organization traces its history back to 1928 when the American College of Surgeons established the Association of Record Librarians of North America (ARLNA) to "elevate the standards of clinical records in hospitals and other medical institutions."

The organization has had three name changes in its history, all were justified with an explanation that reflected the progression of contemporary medical record use, practices and perceptions.

AHIMA requires members obtain regular continuing education to maintain their credentials.