How to become a clinical informatics specialist
Learn the steps to become a professional who can work at the intersection of healthcare and technology.
As one of the emerging careers in the healthtech industry, focus on patient data and medical information within computerized database systems has made clinical informatics roles more critical to enhancing patient care and ensuring compliance with data security and privacy regulations.
In fulfilling these, clinical informatics specialists combine their experience in healthcare and data analysis to ensure that patient data is secure, accurate, and accessible for better medical decision-making.
So if you are looking to consider the role of a clinical informatics specialist, this article will break down what clinical informatics involves, the steps to becoming a clinical informatics specialist, what they do on the job, and what you can expect in terms of salary and career outlook.
Who is a Clinical Informatics Specialist?
A clinical informatics specialist is one who works at the intersection of healthcare and technology with a specialization in the management, storage, and use of patient data and medical information within healthcare systems. Their primary role is to improve clinical workflows, optimize electronic health record (EHR) systems, and enhance decision-making processes through the effective use of health information technology (IT).
As specialists, they act as a bridge between healthcare providers (such as doctors, nurses, and administrators) and IT professionals to ensure that health information systems are well-ordered to meet the needs of medical staff and improve patient care.
How much does a Clinical Informatics Specialist make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, clinical informatics specialists can earn between $80,000 – $120,000 annually, depending on experience and location as a growing field with strong job prospects.
With digitization increasing in healthcare, employment in health informatics is expected to grow 8-10% over the next decade, faster than the average for other occupations.
