Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Alabama Career Overview

As a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator, you play a vital role in bridging the gap between healthcare and technology. Your primary responsibility involves managing and optimizing the information systems that facilitate healthcare delivery, research, and clinical operations. This position is essential in ensuring that data is accurate, secure, and accessible to healthcare providers, which ultimately leads to improved patient outcomes.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Data Management: You oversee the collection, storage, and analysis of health data from various sources. This includes electronic health records (EHR), clinical trial data, and public health information.

  • System Implementation: You are responsible for implementing and maintaining the technological tools and systems that support healthcare practitioners and researchers in their work.

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: You collaborate with IT professionals, healthcare providers, administrators, and researchers. Building effective communication channels within these groups allows for streamlined processes and enhanced data usage.

  • Quality Assurance: Ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of health data is paramount. You establish protocols and procedures to maintain data quality and adhere to regulatory compliance standards.

  • Support and Training: You provide guidance and training for healthcare staff on using informatics tools effectively. Educating users on best practices contributes to a more efficient healthcare environment.

  • Research Facilitation: By providing a robust infrastructure for data sharing and analysis, you support clinical research that can lead to innovative healthcare solutions and improved patient care.

In summary, as a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator, your efforts are foundational in creating a healthcare landscape that leverages data effectively to enhance clinical practice and improve patient care outcomes. Your role ensures that healthcare professionals can make informed decisions based on reliable data.

Biomedical Informatics Coordinator Salary in Alabama

Annual Median: $37,820
Hourly Median: $18.18

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Alabama

To pursue a career as a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator, you will need to obtain specific educational qualifications and training in relevant fields. Consider the following degree programs:

  • Bioinformatics: A degree in bioinformatics will provide you with a solid foundation in the analysis and interpretation of biological data using computational tools. You will gain skills in programming, statistics, and biology, essential for managing and analyzing medical information.

  • Biomedical Sciences: This degree program offers a comprehensive understanding of the biological and clinical sciences that underpin health care. Core topics typically include genetics, microbiology, and pharmacology, which are critical for the application of informatics in a medical context.

  • Health Information Management: Earning a degree in health information management equips you with expertise in managing patient records and health data systems. The curriculum often covers health data standards, information governance, and the legal aspects of health information.

  • Medical Informatics: A program in medical informatics focuses on the use of technology and data to improve patient care and health outcomes. You will study health information systems, clinical decision support technologies, and database management, all vital for a role in this field.

  • Biomedical Technology: This degree involves the study of technology and systems used in the biomedical sector. You will learn about medical devices, laboratory practices, and how technology can facilitate better healthcare delivery, which is significant for coordinating biomedical informatics initiatives.

In addition to obtaining a degree, consider pursuing relevant certifications or training programs that can enhance your understanding of health informatics systems and technologies.

Best Schools to become a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Alabama 2024

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,559
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,473
Admission Rate:44%
Graduation Rate:74%
Total Enrollment:49,600

Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,815
Out-of-State Tuition:$36,239
Admission Rate:63%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:74,014

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,478
Out-of-State Tuition:$19,810
Admission Rate:41%
Graduation Rate:76%
Total Enrollment:68,346

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ

In-State Tuition:$12,900
Out-of-State Tuition:$30,600
Admission Rate:66%
Graduation Rate:84%
Total Enrollment:50,637

University of North Texas Health Science Center

Fort Worth, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,750
Out-of-State Tuition:$26,600
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:2,337
Biomedical Informatics Coordinator Job Description:
  • Apply principles and methods of bioinformatics to assist scientists in areas such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, biology and medical informatics.
  • Apply bioinformatics tools to visualize, analyze, manipulate or interpret molecular data.
  • May build and maintain databases for processing and analyzing genomic or other biological information.

Biomedical Informatics Coordinator Required Skills and Competencies in Alabama

  • Technical Proficiency: You should be adept at using various health informatics software and data management systems. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR), health information exchange (HIE), and data analysis tools is essential.

  • Data Analysis: Being skilled in analyzing complex datasets to derive meaningful insights is imperative. You should be comfortable with statistical methods and possess experience with data visualization tools.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are important. You will need to convey technical information effectively to non-technical stakeholders and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

  • Project Management: Demonstrating effective project management abilities will help you to oversee and guide biomedical informatics initiatives. This involves planning, executing, and monitoring projects to ensure they meet organizational goals.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: You should possess strong analytical thinking skills to identify problems and develop innovative solutions that enhance information systems within healthcare settings.

  • Knowledge of Healthcare Standards: An understanding of healthcare regulations (such as HIPAA) and standards (like HL7 and FHIR) is important to ensure compliance and quality in data management and sharing practices.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders, including healthcare providers, IT professionals, and administrative staff, is vital. You should be able to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

  • Adaptability: The landscape of healthcare technology is always evolving. Being adaptable and open to learning new technologies and methodologies will serve you well in this dynamic field.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision in managing data and understanding complex systems is necessary. You must be meticulous in your work to minimize errors and ensure data integrity.

  • Leadership Skills: You may need to lead cross-functional teams on projects. Skills in motivating and guiding team members will help drive initiatives effectively and foster a productive team environment.

Job Duties for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators

  • Analyze or manipulate bioinformatics data using software packages, statistical applications, or data mining techniques.

  • Extend existing software programs, web-based interactive tools, or database queries as sequence management and analysis needs evolve.

  • Maintain awareness of new and emerging computational methods and technologies.

Technologies and Skills Used by Biomedical Informatics Coordinators

Analytical or scientific software

  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Object or component oriented development software

  • Perl
  • R

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Figuring out how to use new ideas or things
  • 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 Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Alabama

The job market for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators in Alabama is characterized by a steady increase in demand, reflecting the growing intersection of healthcare and information technology. Here are some key aspects of the current landscape:

  • Demand: As healthcare organizations increasingly adopt electronic health records (EHR) and other data-driven technologies, the need for professionals who can manage and analyze healthcare data continues to rise. This role is essential in optimizing healthcare delivery and ensuring compliance with regulations.

  • Growth Potential: The field of biomedical informatics is expected to experience sustained growth, driven by advancements in data analytics, genomics, and personalized medicine. This trend is projected to create numerous job opportunities for coordinators specializing in the management of complex health information systems.

  • Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Alabama present particularly promising opportunities for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators. Key locations include:

    • Birmingham: As the largest city in Alabama, Birmingham is home to numerous healthcare facilities, research institutions, and universities, contributing to a concentration of healthcare informatics roles.

    • Huntsville: Known for its technological advancements and healthcare initiatives, Huntsville is experiencing significant growth in healthcare IT, making it an attractive location for informatics professionals.

    • Montgomery: The state capital is home to various health departments and hospitals, which are expanding their informatics capabilities, thereby increasing job availability in this sector.

    • Mobile: With a variety of healthcare providers and a growing emphasis on health data management, Mobile offers emerging roles for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators.

  • Collaborations and Partnerships: Healthcare institutions in Alabama are increasingly engaging in partnerships with tech companies and universities, fostering an environment conducive to innovation in biomedical informatics. This collaboration creates additional roles and positions for coordinators who can bridge the gap between clinical practice and information technology.

  • Professional Networks: Engaging with local and state-level professional organizations can be beneficial. These networks often provide resources, job postings, and connections that can help you navigate the job market effectively.

The overall landscape for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators in Alabama appears to be robust with significant opportunities for growth and development in the coming years.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Alabama

  • American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA)
    Access a wealth of information on medical informatics through AMIA, which offers educational resources, conferences, and networking opportunities.
    AMIA Website

  • HealthIT.gov
    Find resources related to health information technology, including policy updates, best practices, and implementation guides for health systems.
    HealthIT.gov

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Science of Team Science
    Explore information on team science approaches in biomedical research, which includes interdisciplinary teamwork relevant to informatics.
    NIH Team Science

  • American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
    Offers professional development, certifications, and resources for health information management, including informatics training.
    AHIMA Website

  • The Alliance for Nursing Informatics (ANI)
    Learn about nursing informatics, which can integrate directly with biomedical informatics, offering insights into data management in healthcare.
    ANI Website

  • Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM)
    Discover resources on imaging informatics, which are particularly relevant in a biomedical context.
    SIIM Website

  • Journal of Biomedical Informatics
    Stay updated with the latest research and advancements in the field through articles and studies published in this peer-reviewed journal.
    Journal of Biomedical Informatics

  • American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) – Clinical Informatics
    Explore resources focused on the integration of informatics into family medicine practice.
    AAFP Clinical Informatics

  • University Programs and Continuing Education
    Identify universities in Alabama that offer degrees or certificates in biomedical informatics or related fields to enhance your qualifications.
    University of Alabama at Birmingham - School of Health Professions
    University of South Alabama - College of Medicine

Consult these resources to enhance your knowledge, connect with professionals in the field, and stay updated on trends and developments in biomedical informatics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Alabama

  • What is a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator?
    A Biomedical Informatics Coordinator is a professional who manages and optimizes information systems used in healthcare settings. This role involves overseeing the collection, storage, retrieval, and analysis of biomedical data to improve patient care and operational efficiency.

  • What educational background do I need to become a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator?
    Most positions require a bachelor's degree in biomedical informatics, health informatics, information technology, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or additional certifications in biomedical informatics.

  • What skills are essential for this role?
    Key skills include:

    • Strong understanding of healthcare data systems
    • Proficiency in data management and analytics
    • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
    • Knowledge of coding, databases, and software applications in healthcare
    • Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
  • What are the typical job responsibilities of a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator?
    Typical responsibilities include:

    • Implementing and maintaining electronic health record (EHR) systems
    • Analyzing healthcare data for quality improvement initiatives
    • Collaborating with clinical staff to enhance data use in patient care
    • Training staff on informatics tools and applications
    • Ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and standards
  • Where can I find job opportunities in Alabama?
    You can explore job opportunities in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, research institutions, and health technology companies. Websites such as job boards, healthcare organizations' career pages, and professional networks can be useful for your job search.

  • What is the expected salary for a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Alabama?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and location, but the average salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $95,000 annually. Entry-level positions may offer lower starting salaries, while those with experience may earn significantly more.

  • Are there certification programs available for this career?
    Yes, there are several certification programs available, such as the Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA) and the Health Informatics Certification offered by various professional organizations. Obtaining certification can enhance your qualifications and marketability in the field.

  • What career advancement opportunities exist for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators?
    With experience, you can advance to higher positions such as Director of Health Informatics, Chief Information Officer (CIO), or specialized roles in data analytics or research informatics. Continuing education and obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can facilitate this advancement.

  • Is job outlook favorable for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators?
    Yes, the job outlook is typically positive as healthcare organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making. The demand for professionals who can manage and interpret healthcare data is expected to grow as technology advances and healthcare services expand.

  • What professional organizations should I consider joining?
    Consider joining organizations such as the American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA) and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). Membership can provide networking opportunities, access to resources, and professional development.