Medical Informatics Program Manager
Medical informatics includes using technology to make records and information more accessible and organized to help treat patients in an effective and timely manner. A medical informatics program manager oversees the entry of data, helps determine the various databases and programs that will be used as well as works in evaluating the effectiveness of the current information technology systems currently used in the hospital or health care facility.
A medical informatics program manager is often responsible for training new employees and designing and facilitating orientation programs for non-medical and medical staff on the use of various computer data programs. Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain complex programs and procedures in easy to understand language is important.
A medical informatics program manager must also have creative skills and an ability to problem solve. Often troubleshooting is a major component of a medical informatics program manager’s responsibility. Understanding computers and software design is important in avoiding or managing potential problems or issues with medical information management.
As with any management position good interpersonal skills are required to work with the various individuals that work within the departments. Since a medical informatics program manager is responsible for coordinating the data from all sectors of the hospital or health care facility a good understanding of the hospital system is important. Often this experience is gained working within various aspects of the informatics department prior to assuming the program manager role.
Most management positions have standard workweek schedules although some overtime or weekend work may be required. Generally this is rare but may occur if the hospital or health care facility is switching data programs or implementing large changes or additions to the current technology.
Career Requirements
- Most positions for a medical informatics program manager will require a masters level education in informatics, business management or hospital health care management as well as experience with data management and software programs.
- Some universities and colleges across the United States are now offering specific bachelor and masters level training in health information management or biomedical computing. Often these courses of study can be completed online.
