Clinical Health IT Developer in Missouri Career Overview
In your role as a Clinical Health IT Developer, you will work at the intersection of healthcare and technology, playing a vital role in shaping the future of patient care. Your contributions will help create, implement, and maintain electronic health records (EHRs) and other health information systems that streamline processes and enhance the delivery of healthcare services.
Key aspects of your role include:
System Development: You will be involved in the design and enhancement of software applications that facilitate clinical workflows, ensuring they meet the unique needs of medical professionals.
Data Management: Managing and analyzing health data is a significant part of your responsibilities. By ensuring that data is accurate, accessible, and secure, you will enable healthcare providers to make informed decisions.
Interoperability Solutions: Your work will focus on ensuring that different health IT systems can communicate effectively, allowing for seamless patient information exchange across various platforms and healthcare settings.
Regulatory Compliance: You will ensure that health IT systems meet regulatory standards, safeguarding patient privacy and safeguarding data in accordance with laws such as HIPAA.
Collaboration: Working with clinicians, IT professionals, and stakeholders, you will gather requirements and feedback to create user-friendly systems that improve clinical workflows.
As a Clinical Health IT Developer, your efforts directly impact the efficiency of healthcare delivery, patient safety, and the overall quality of care. The successful implementation of innovative health IT solutions not only enhances operational effectiveness but also contributes to better health outcomes for patients.
Clinical Health IT Developer Salary in Missouri
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Missouri
To become a Clinical Health IT Developer, you will typically need a combination of relevant education and training. Here are the educational qualifications that are commonly pursued:
Bioinformatics: A degree in bioinformatics will provide you with knowledge about the intersection of biology and data science. This program may cover areas such as computational biology, statistical genetics, and programming, which are essential for managing health data.
Health and Medical Administrative Services: This degree focuses on the administrative side of healthcare, equipping you with skills in management, policy, and technology application. You'll learn about health systems, information management, and the role of technology in healthcare.
Health Information Management: A degree in health information management emphasizes the handling of patient information and healthcare data systems. This program includes coursework on data analysis, healthcare compliance, and electronic health record (EHR) management.
Health Information Technology: With a focus on the technology used in healthcare settings, this degree covers areas such as health IT systems, data security, and interoperability of health records. You will gain practical skills in implementing and maintaining health information systems.
Computer and Information Sciences: A degree in this field provides a strong foundation in programming, data structures, and software development. You will learn to develop applications and systems that can be used in various healthcare settings, making you well-suited for a role in clinical health IT.
Each of these degree programs prepares you for the specific demands of a Clinical Health IT Developer role and lays the groundwork for further certifications or specialized training as needed in the field.
Best Schools to become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Missouri 2024
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
DeVry University-Illinois
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Northeastern University
Southern New Hampshire University
The University of Texas at Dallas
- Apply knowledge of nursing and informatics to assist in the design, development, and ongoing modification of computerized health care systems.
- May educate staff and assist in problem solving to promote the implementation of the health care system.
Clinical Health IT Developer Required Skills and Competencies in Missouri
Technical Proficiency: You need a strong understanding of health information technologies, including Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems, Health Information Exchanges (HIE), and various clinical software applications.
Programming Skills: Familiarity with programming languages such as SQL, Java, Python, or C# is essential for developing and maintaining applications. This includes knowledge of HL7 and FHIR protocols for data interoperability.
Data Analysis: You should possess the ability to analyze complex datasets to derive insights that can improve clinical outcomes and operational efficiencies. Strong capabilities in data visualization tools may also be beneficial.
Project Management: Effective project management skills are important for overseeing IT projects from conception to implementation, ensuring they are completed on time and within scope. Experience with methodologies like Agile or Scrum can be advantageous.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Your role will require analytical thinking to troubleshoot and resolve issues that may arise with software systems or data accessibility, ensuring minimal disruption to healthcare services.
Understanding of Healthcare Regulations: Knowledge of compliance regulations such as HIPAA and meaningful use standards will help you ensure that technology solutions adhere to legal and ethical guidelines.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary to collaborate with clinical staff, IT teams, and stakeholders. You should be capable of translating technical concepts into understandable terms for non-technical users.
User Training and Support: You need to excel in providing training and ongoing support to end-users, helping them effectively utilize technology for their clinical workflows.
Adaptability: The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving. You should be open to learning new technologies and methodologies to stay current with advancements in health IT.
Team Collaboration: Being able to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team, including clinicians, IT staff, and management, is critical to ensure that technology solutions meet the needs of all stakeholders.
Job Duties for Clinical Health IT Developers
Apply knowledge of computer science, information science, nursing, and informatics theory to nursing practice, education, administration, or research, in collaboration with other health informatics specialists.
Design, develop, select, test, implement, and evaluate new or modified informatics solutions, data structures, and decision-support mechanisms to support patients, health care professionals, and their information management and human-computer and human-technology interactions within health care contexts.
Translate nursing practice information between nurses and systems engineers, analysts, or designers, using object-oriented models or other techniques.
Medical software
- Epic Systems
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
Object or component oriented development software
- Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS
- Perl
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Reading work related information
People and Technology Systems
- Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Clinical Health IT Developer in Missouri
The job market for Clinical Health IT Developers in Missouri reflects a robust demand driven by the ongoing transformation in healthcare technology. Here are key aspects of the current landscape:
Increased Demand: As healthcare organizations continue to adopt electronic health records (EHR) and other health information technologies, there is a growing need for developers who can design, implement, and maintain these systems. The push for interoperability and better data management further fuels this demand.
Growth Potential: The shift towards telemedicine, coupled with advancements in health technology, is leading to increased job openings in Clinical Health IT Development. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth in the health IT sector as organizations strive to enhance patient care through innovative software solutions.
Geographical Hotspots:
- St. Louis: Known for its robust healthcare institutions and technology sectors, St. Louis is a leading hub for Clinical Health IT Developers. The presence of major health systems and startups focusing on digital health creates numerous opportunities.
- Kansas City: This city has emerged as a significant player in the health IT landscape, with various healthcare facilities and tech companies specializing in health informatics looking for skilled developers.
- Columbia: With the University of Missouri and related research institutions contributing to health technology advancements, Columbia offers growing opportunities in this field.
Networking and Collaboration: Initiatives by state organizations and local networking events within Missouri encourage collaboration among health IT professionals, facilitating job opportunities and professional growth.
As a Clinical Health IT Developer, you will find a dynamic and supportive environment in Missouri, with numerous potential employers keen to engage qualified candidates.
Top Related Careers to Clinical Health IT Developer 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Missouri
HealthIT.gov
Visit HealthIT.gov for resources related to health information technology. This site offers guidelines, best practices, and regulatory updates that can enhance your understanding of the field.American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
Explore the offerings of AHIMA at AHIMA.org for certifications, educational materials, and industry news pertinent to health information management and IT.Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
Access resources on health IT, educational opportunities, and networking through HIMSS at HIMSS.org.Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
The CMS website at CMS.gov provides valuable information about healthcare regulations and technologies shaping the industry.National Library of Medicine (NLM)
Utilize the resources available at NLM.nih.gov for research articles and publications in health IT and clinical informatics.American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA)
Learn more about clinical informatics and health IT by visiting AMIA at AMIA.org, which offers publications, conferences, and educational materials tailored for professionals in the field.The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME)
Find leadership resources and networking opportunities at CHIMECentral.org focused on healthcare IT executives.The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC)
Review policy updates, resources, and tools affecting health IT through the ONC at healthit.gov/onc.Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
The state health department provides resources and information about local health IT initiatives at health.mo.gov.LinkedIn Learning
Access relevant online courses on health IT, programming, and project management through LinkedIn Learning to develop your skills and competencies.Coursera
Enroll in professional courses and certifications pertaining to health IT offered by universities and organizations on Coursera.EdX
Investigate health IT courses from renowned institutions on EdX to enhance your education and credentials in this field.
These resources will help you stay informed and advance your career as a Clinical Health IT Developer in Missouri.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Clinical Health IT Developer in Missouri
What qualifications do I need to become a Clinical Health IT Developer?
A bachelor's degree in health information technology, computer science, or a related field is typically required. Certifications such as Certified Professional in Health Informatics (CPHI) can enhance your qualifications.What technical skills are essential for this role?
You should be proficient in programming languages, such as Java, C#, or Python, and have experience with databases like SQL. Familiarity with healthcare standards such as HL7 and FHIR is also important.What types of projects will I work on as a Clinical Health IT Developer?
You may work on developing electronic health record (EHR) systems, health information exchanges, or applications that support healthcare analytics and patient engagement.What environment do Clinical Health IT Developers typically work in?
Most work in healthcare provider facilities, healthcare technology companies, or governmental health organizations. Remote work options are also becoming increasingly common.Is certification necessary to work as a Clinical Health IT Developer?
While not always required, obtaining certifications can improve job prospects and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Relevant certifications include Certified Health Informatics Systems Professional (CHISP) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).What is the job outlook for Clinical Health IT Developers in Missouri?
The demand for Clinical Health IT Developers is increasing as healthcare systems continue to digitize and implement new technologies. Job prospects are favorable, especially for those with relevant credentials and experience.What are typical salary ranges for this role in Missouri?
Salaries for Clinical Health IT Developers in Missouri can range from $70,000 to over $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific organization.What soft skills are important for this position?
Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with healthcare professionals. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and project management skills are also valuable in successfully implementing technology solutions.How can I gain experience in this field?
Internships, co-op programs, and entry-level positions in health IT or related fields can provide practical experience. Engaging in volunteer work with healthcare organizations can also help you build valuable skills and connections.Are there professional organizations I can join?
Yes, consider joining organizations such as the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) or the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) for networking opportunities and continued education.