Clinical Health IT Developer in Utah Career Overview

As a Clinical Health IT Developer, you play a vital role in bridging the gap between healthcare and technology. Your responsibilities center around developing and maintaining health information systems that facilitate the effective storage, retrieval, and sharing of patient data.

Key aspects of this role include:

  • System Development: You design and implement software solutions that meet the specialized needs of healthcare providers, ensuring that systems are user-friendly and compliant with healthcare regulations.
  • Integration: You work closely with various healthcare technologies, integrating electronic health records (EHR), laboratory systems, and other clinical applications to create a cohesive information ecosystem.
  • Data Management: Your expertise extends to managing sensitive health data, ensuring its accuracy, security, and accessibility while adhering to privacy standards.
  • Collaboration: You collaborate with clinical staff, IT teams, and healthcare administrators to identify challenges in existing systems and propose innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and patient outcomes.
  • Support and Training: Providing technical support and training for end-users is a part of your job, facilitating a smoother adoption of new technologies in healthcare settings.

In this evolving field, your contributions are essential for improving patient care and enhancing the effectiveness of healthcare delivery systems. The demand for skilled Clinical Health IT Developers continues to grow as the healthcare industry increasingly relies on technology to streamline operations and optimize patient experiences.

Clinical Health IT Developer Salary in Utah

Annual Median: $90,650
Hourly Median: $43.58

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 Utah

To become a Clinical Health IT Developer, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications relevant to the field. Below are degree programs that provide the foundational knowledge and training necessary for this career:

  • Bioinformatics

    • This program typically combines biology, computer science, and information technology. It equips you with the skills to analyze and interpret biological data, which is essential in developing health information systems.

  • Health and Medical Administrative Services

    • This degree program focuses on the management aspects of healthcare delivery. It prepares you to handle the administrative and operational challenges of health IT systems.

  • Health Information Management

    • Pursuing this program will provide you with knowledge in managing health data. You'll learn about legislation, ethics, and the collection and analysis of health information, all vital for IT development in clinical settings.

  • Health Information Technology

    • This program is designed specifically for those looking to integrate healthcare and technology. It covers electronic health records, health IT systems implementation, and data management, forming a strong basis for a career in clinical health IT.

  • Computer and Information Sciences

    • A degree in this field focuses on programming, systems analysis, and database management. This foundational knowledge is critical for designing and maintaining health IT applications and systems.

You should aim to attain at least a bachelor's degree in one of these areas. Advanced degrees or certifications in specialized health IT fields may further enhance your qualifications and career prospects.

Best Schools to become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Utah 2024

#1Fulton County

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA

In-State Tuition:$10,258
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,370
Admission Rate:17%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:45,296
#2DuPage County

DeVry University-Illinois

Naperville, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,392
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,392
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:26,384
#3Washtenaw County

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI

In-State Tuition:$17,454
Out-of-State Tuition:$56,941
Admission Rate:18%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:51,225
#4Suffolk County

Northeastern University

Boston, MA

In-State Tuition:$59,100
Out-of-State Tuition:$59,100
Admission Rate:7%
Graduation Rate:91%
Total Enrollment:30,013
#5Merrimack County

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091
#6Dallas County

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX

In-State Tuition:$14,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$39,776
Admission Rate:85%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:31,570
Clinical Health IT Developer Job Description:
  • 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 Utah

  • Technical Proficiency: You should have a strong understanding of healthcare IT systems, electronic health records (EHR), and health information exchanges. Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, C#, Python, or SQL is necessary to develop and customize applications.

  • Interoperability Knowledge: Familiarity with healthcare data exchange standards and protocols, such as HL7, FHIR, and DICOM, enables you to ensure seamless communication between disparate health IT systems.

  • Understanding of Clinical Workflows: Recognizing various healthcare processes and workflows is essential. This knowledge will help you design IT solutions that enhance clinical efficiency and improve patient outcomes.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You need a strong analytical mindset to identify issues in health IT systems effectively and to develop innovative solutions that meet users' needs.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in clinical settings where data accuracy affects patient care. Your ability to focus on minute details can significantly impact the quality of the IT solutions you implement.

  • Project Management: Familiarity with project management methodologies, such as Agile or Scrum, can assist you in managing timelines, resources, and stakeholder communications effectively.

  • Communication Skills: Effective verbal and written communication skills are necessary to convey technical information to non-technical stakeholders, collaborate with healthcare professionals, and document system specifications.

  • User-Centric Design: A sound understanding of user experience (UX) principles will aid you in developing intuitive and user-friendly applications, ensuring that healthcare providers can efficiently interact with the systems you design.

  • Regulatory Knowledge: Awareness of healthcare regulations and compliance requirements, such as HIPAA and HITECH, is essential to ensure that the IT solutions you create meet legal standards for patient information security.

  • Adaptability: The ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and evolving healthcare practices is important. Staying informed about industry trends and emerging technologies will help you remain relevant and effective in your role.

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.

Technologies and Skills Used by Clinical Health IT Developers

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 Utah

  • The demand for Clinical Health IT Developers in Utah is on the rise as healthcare organizations increasingly adopt electronic health records (EHRs) and other digital health solutions. This trend is driven by ongoing efforts to enhance patient care, streamline operations, and comply with federal regulations.

  • The rapid evolution of telehealth, particularly emphasized during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, has further accelerated the need for skilled developers who can facilitate these technologies. As health systems expand their digital services, the requirement for professionals who specialize in health IT systems is expected to grow alongside this trend.

  • Utah presents significant growth potential for Clinical Health IT Developers. According to job market analyses, healthcare facilities and tech companies are investing heavily in health IT infrastructure and innovations. This growth trajectory indicates a robust pipeline of opportunities within both established health systems and emerging startups.

  • Geographical hotspots for employment in this field within Utah include:

    • Salt Lake City: This area hosts a multitude of health organizations and tech firms focusing on health IT solutions. Major hospitals and health systems are actively looking for qualified developers.
    • Provo-Orem: Known for its vibrant tech scene, several startups targeting health technologies are based here, contributing to job openings.
    • Lehi: Home to numerous tech companies and healthcare startups, Lehi offers diverse opportunities for IT developers looking to specialize in healthcare applications.
    • Ogden and Layton: These northern cities are seeing growth in local healthcare facilities that require support in implementing and maintaining health IT systems.

  • The increasing emphasis on interoperability and integration of health data systems across various platforms suggests that Clinical Health IT Developers will remain in high demand. Organizations are seeking professionals who can help optimize existing systems and ensure seamless data flow between different health IT applications.

  • Moreover, initiatives within the state to foster a collaborative environment among technology firms and healthcare providers support the growth of this sector. Networking opportunities, industry events, and partnerships provide avenues for developers to engage with potential employers and stay informed about the latest trends and technologies in health IT.

  • Overall, as the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the need for skilled Clinical Health IT Developers in Utah is expected to expand significantly, offering a promising job market filled with opportunities for advancement and innovation.

Top Related Careers to Clinical Health IT Developer 2024

Medical Software Integration Specialist
Health Data Analytics Coordinator
Electronic Health Records (EHR) Systems Consultant
Digital Health Solutions Architect

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Utah

  • HealthIT.gov
    This official site provides a wealth of information on health information technology including guidelines, standards, and resources relevant to clinical health IT professionals.
    Visit HealthIT.gov

  • American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
    AHIMA offers resources related to health information management, including certifications, training programs, and industry news that can benefit clinical health IT developers.
    Visit AHIMA

  • Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
    HIMSS supports health IT professionals with educational webinars, conferences, and research articles. They offer valuable insights into the latest trends in health IT.
    Visit HIMSS

  • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
    The CMS website provides information on health IT regulations, policies, and programs that impact clinical health IT development.
    Visit CMS

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Biomedical Information Science and Technology Initiative (BISTI)
    BISTI promotes the use of IT in biomedical research and may serve as a resource for developers interested in clinical applications within research settings.
    Visit NIH BISTI

  • National Library of Medicine (NLM)
    NLM offers resources regarding the intersection of healthcare and information technology, including databases and tools that a Clinical Health IT Developer may utilize.
    Visit NLM

  • Project Management Institute (PMI)
    If project management skills are relevant to your role, PMI provides certifications and resources in managing IT projects effectively.
    Visit PMI

  • Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI)
    This organization focuses on improving health care quality and offers numerous resources that can help IT developers understand how to effectively apply technology in clinical settings.
    Visit IHI

  • Online Learning Platforms
    Consider resources such as Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning for courses tailored to health IT skills, software development, and healthcare management.

  • Utah Department of Health and Human Services
    The local state department provides information on programs, health IT initiatives, and resources specific to Utah that may affect clinical health IT developers.
    Visit Utah DHHS

  • LinkedIn Groups and Professional Networks
    Join relevant groups or forums on LinkedIn to connect with other healthcare IT professionals, share insights, and stay updated on industry trends.

    • LinkedIn – Search for groups related to health IT.

  • Local Meetups and Workshops
    Use platforms like Meetup.com to find local events focusing on health IT, where you can network with other professionals and expand your knowledge.
    Visit Meetup

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Clinical Health IT Developer in Utah

  • What does a Clinical Health IT Developer do?
    A Clinical Health IT Developer creates and manages software solutions that support healthcare providers in patient care. This includes developing electronic health record (EHR) systems, ensuring interoperability between different health IT systems, and creating applications that streamline clinical workflows.

  • What skills are essential for a Clinical Health IT Developer?
    Key skills include programming languages (such as Java, C#, or Python), knowledge of healthcare data standards (like HL7 and FHIR), strong problem-solving abilities, and familiarity with clinical workflows. Additionally, soft skills such as communication and teamwork are essential for collaborating with healthcare professionals.

  • What educational background is typically required for this role?
    Most Clinical Health IT Developers hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, health informatics, or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree or relevant certifications, especially in health informatics.

  • Is certification important for Clinical Health IT Developers?
    While not always required, obtaining certifications such as Certified Health Informatics Systems Professional (CHISP) or Health Information Technology Professional (HIT Pro) can enhance your credentials and make you more competitive in the job market.

  • What types of employers hire Clinical Health IT Developers?
    You can find employment opportunities in a variety of settings, including hospitals, healthcare systems, government agencies, health IT companies, and consulting firms. Additionally, some developers may work as independent contractors or consultants.

  • What is the job outlook for Clinical Health IT Developers in Utah?
    The demand for Clinical Health IT Developers is expected to grow as healthcare organizations increasingly adopt technology for better patient outcomes. Utah's robust healthcare industry and focus on health IT innovation contribute to a positive job outlook.

  • What is the typical salary range for a Clinical Health IT Developer in Utah?
    Salaries can vary based on experience and employer, but Clinical Health IT Developers in Utah typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually. Factors such as specialization and management responsibilities can also influence salary levels.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this field?
    Yes, there are numerous pathways for advancement, including roles such as Senior Developer, IT Project Manager, or Chief Information Officer (CIO). Continued professional development and obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can facilitate career growth.

  • What trends should Clinical Health IT Developers be aware of?
    Current trends include the rise of telehealth, the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in healthcare, increased focus on data security and privacy, and the push for interoperability among healthcare systems. Staying updated on these trends is important for career relevance.

  • How can I get started in this career?
    To get started, you should pursue relevant education, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, and develop a strong portfolio of projects. Networking within the healthcare IT community and exploring job boards can also facilitate entry into the field.