Health care or medical industry is a huge and complex area comprising of varied functions and operations. The people associated with the health care industry are in need of continuous information flow to keep them updated and informed. The innumerable set of information related to smooth functioning of the medical industry is greatly dependent on the availability of such data or information at the right time through the right sources. A health information analyst is a specialized person who presents such data according to the need of the health organizations and its members. Health information analyst responsibilities cover a series of steps to perform efficiently. He/she is responsible of engaging in accurate research and collection of health or medical data followed by evaluating, analyzing and verifying the same before producing it as information to the target audience.
A health information analyst must be a competent individual who has experience in data management, research, statistical and analytical concepts. He/she uses the latest technologies to provide timely and quality health care provision. Such a person needs to manage huge information/data portfolio and work on various computer applications. Information analysts are usually employed by hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, clinical research centers, medical agencies, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes and health insurance firms.
If you are looking for a rewarding career as a health information analyst, then you must possess the required personal and professional credentials. This article will give you an overview of the essential job responsibilities and qualifications required to qualify for the position of a health information analyst.
A health information analyst must hold a bachelor's degree in health care, nursing, statistics, bio statistics, social science, or the related field. Having a master's degree or a Ph.D. in the related field is considered to be the most eligible educational criteria. A registered health information analyst (by Registered Health Information Technician or Registered Health Information Administrator) will have an added advantage. Experienced and trained health information analysts have more value in the job market for some employers. In such a case, they should have a minimum three to four years of work experience in health care with minimum two years in handling intricate database and information management roles.
The health information analyst must have enough technical skills to carry out the job responsibilities that he/she has been designated. He/she must be proficient in the use of computer and software applications. Knowledge of Microsoft suite - Word, Excel and Access is a must. Moreover, he/she must be experienced in the use of statistical tools, data and analysis software like SPSS and programming language like SAS and SQL, etc., amongst many others.
A health information analyst's average salary falls in the range of $35,039 and $77,432 per year. However, this amount may vary on the type of organization and its location and size. Apart from this, the salary will also vary according to the level of experience and skills that the potential candidate possesses. An entry level candidate's earning structure will be much lesser than that of an experienced one.
The health information analyst responsibilities given above will clear any doubts that you might have about the profession. There are ample opportunities waiting for you in this field of job market. It is projected that the job prospect for the health information analysts is increasing at a fast pace. With the growing health care industry, the employment opportunities for these professionals will grow up to 16% by the end of 2015.