Clinical Informatics Specialist

Reports to the Director of Clinical Informatics. Has expert knowledge of the clinical discipline and advanced knowledge of information systems and its application to healthcare. Applies best practices to the management and development of the clinical information system life cycle and facilitates strategic clinical information system direction to support excellence in patient care and experience; clinical process evaluation and transformation. Assumes responsibility for the design, testing, optimization and training activities related to Beacon clinical information systems, in addition to serving as a clinical liaison with the Information Systems Department, conducting quality assurance and performance improvement activities and ongoing data maintenance for Beacon clinical systems.

MISSION, VALUES and SERVICE GOALS

• MISSION: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
• VALUES: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
• SERVICE GOALS: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.
  

Assumes responsibility for the coordination of assigned Beacon software system applications both during implementation and maintenance phases by:

• Planning and implementing clinical related software system applications in accordance with established clinical, Information System, and organizational policies and procedures.
• Recommending new policies and procedures to enhance the Beacon clinical information system build and workflow processes
• Assisting with ongoing data maintenance and the establishment of guidelines for ongoing data maintenance of designated Beacon clinical information systems.
• Monitoring clinical related software system applications and work assignments in progress (and also those in the development stage) and providing periodic status reports to the Clinical Informatics and Information Systems leaders.
• Ensuring that there is a timely and smooth flow of information between clinical areas and the Information System Department.
• Communicating the details of clinical operational requirements, both routine and unique, for Beacon clinical information software systems as required. Also assists with tailoring computer system applications to meet the unique requirements of clinical care.
• Maintaining current knowledge of clinical procedures, educational developments, trends and techniques relevant to own department to enhance communications and understanding of department needs.
  

Troubleshoots, documents and resolves problems with the assigned application software programs by:

• Analyzing reported or anticipated problems related involving the assigned software application.
• Documenting problems and ongoing actions toward resolution in the appropriate documentation venues.
• Facilitating the timely delivery of solutions which meet both clinical and Information System needs.
• Monitoring data and reports to ensure the integrity and accuracy of data.
• Collaborating with IS analysts and clinical resources in identifying resolutions.
  

Provides initial and ongoing training to end users on the use of assigned Beacon clinical information software systems by:

• Acting as a liaison and facilitator with end users and/or end user educators throughout the implementation of new Beacon clinical systems.
• Instructing educators or end users on use of software and procedures; also providing training scenarios and evaluating results.
• Providing educational support to the Medical Staff and clinical users of assigned computer applications and systems. Also providing ongoing guidance and assistance as necessary.
• Recommending and providing remedial training for associates if necessary.
• Providing support to department staff during scheduled and unscheduled IS downtime or interruption of service.
  

Conducts testing and performance improvement activities related to assigned software programs by:

• Creating life-like test scripts and scenarios, inputting to the computer and verifying test results.
• Assisting with the testing of system functionality, as well as assisting with the validation of database integrity.
• Coordinating and engaging in performance improvement activities with Beacon's performance improvement and clinical departments.
• Providing data collection and analysis of clinical documentation and proposing changes where needed to promote improved patient safety and staff performance.
• Providing reports to clinical or Information System leadership as required.
• When applicable, assists with integrating compliance standards into the Beacon's clinical software systems.
• If applicable, documenting all IS related systems development and maintenance to meet regulatory requirements.
  

Maintains professional knowledge, skills, and competence in areas of responsibility by:

• Attending training and department meetings; also participating in continuing education and attending conferences as approved.
• Maintaining professional affiliations and memberships in related organizations, as appropriate.
• Reading current professional literature, publications, and journals.
  

Contributes To The Overall Effectiveness And Efficiency Of The Department And The Implementation And Maintenance Of Beacon Clinical Software Systems By

• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge regarding the clinical-related day-to-day operations.
• Maintaining records, reports and files as required.
• Completing other job-related functions and work assignments, as directed, within the appropriate time-frame. Also communicating with the Director about any concerns regarding time-frames and workload.
  

Organizational Responsibilities

Associate complies with the following organizational requirements:

• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Direct patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and Education and Experience
• The knowledge, skills and abilities indicated below are normally acquired through the successful completion of a clinical associate or bachelor degree program and current licensure to practice in Indiana (if applicable). Three to five years of progressively-responsible clinical experience is required. Preference will be given to graduates of a Clinical Informatics Program or candidates with Informatics certification. Training and experience with those software and hardware products regularly used by Beacon Health System and prior experience in a leadership role are desired.
  

Knowledge & Skills

• Demonstrates advanced knowledge of clinical day-to-day operations and policies and procedures. Also requires a solid understanding of user department processes and procedural changes and how Beacon departments interact with each other in a computerized environment.
• Requires the technical computer skills and knowledge necessary to effectively use and support various software and hardware. Also demonstrates a working knowledge of database applications and the skills needed to assist with testing plans and data.
• Demonstrates a successful record of being a team player and completing project-related work assignments (especially project implementation).
• Requires advanced analytical and problem solving skills and the ability to identify problems and deliver solutions in a timely and efficient manner.
• Demonstrates the interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written) necessary to communicate effectively with the associates at all levels. Also requires the ability to provide effective training.
• Requires organization skills and the ability to work independently as assigned, prioritize workload and handle a variety of multiple and overlapping functions within set deadlines.
• Demonstrates the leadership skills necessary to elicit cooperation and support from other associates.
  

Working Conditions

• Works in an office/clinical environment.
• May need to vary days and hours scheduled, including working evenings and/or weekends as determined by department need.
• Must be able to be effective in a fast-paced, quality focused, multi-priority environment that frequently deals with stressful situations and important deadlines and schedules.
  

Physical Demands

• Requires the physical ability and stamina (i.e., sit, stand and/or walk for prolonged periods of time, etc.) to perform the essential functions of the position.