Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Virginia Career Overview

As a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator, you play a vital role in the integration of healthcare, information technology, and data analysis. Your position is essential for enhancing the delivery of healthcare services through the effective use of data and technology. Key aspects of your role include:

  • Data Management: You oversee the collection, storage, and analysis of biomedical data, ensuring that it is accessible and usable for healthcare providers and researchers.

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: You collaborate with healthcare professionals, IT specialists, and researchers to implement systems that improve patient care and optimize workflows.

  • System Implementation: You are responsible for the planning and execution of health information systems, including electronic health records (EHRs), ensuring they meet clinical needs and compliance standards.

  • Improving Patient Outcomes: By leveraging data analytics, you help to identify trends and areas for improvement, directly contributing to enhanced patient outcomes and safety.

  • Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that all informatics practices comply with local, state, and federal regulations, safeguarding patient privacy and data security.

  • Training and Support: You provide guidance and training to healthcare staff on the use of informatics tools and technologies, facilitating a seamless integration into their daily operations.

Your expertise not only streamlines processes within healthcare environments but also advances the effective use of biomedical data, making your role critical in the ongoing evolution of the healthcare industry in Virginia and beyond.

Biomedical Informatics Coordinator Salary in Virginia

Annual Median: $49,800
Hourly Median: $23.94

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 Virginia

To become a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator, obtaining the right educational qualifications and training is essential. The following college degree programs are relevant in preparing you for this career:

  • Bioinformatics: This program combines biology, computer science, and information technology, giving you the tools to analyze and interpret complex biological data.

  • Biomedical Sciences: A degree in this field provides a strong foundation in the biological sciences, essential for understanding the health and disease contexts in which informatics is applied.

  • Health Information Management: This program emphasizes the management of health data and information systems, equipping you with knowledge about healthcare data governance and technology.

  • Medical Informatics: Focused specifically on healthcare applications, this degree covers topics related to the management and analysis of medical information, enhancing your understanding of its application in clinical settings.

  • Biomedical Technology: This program introduces you to the technologies used in the biomedical field, including data collection and analysis tools, preparing you for the technological aspects of the role.

In addition to obtaining a degree, you may also benefit from internships or practical training opportunities that provide hands-on experience in biomedical informatics settings, enhancing your educational background and readiness for the workforce.

Best Schools to become a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Virginia 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 Virginia

  • Analytical Skills
    You possess the ability to analyze complex data sets and identify trends or anomalies relevant to biomedical research and healthcare outcomes.

  • Technical Proficiency
    Familiarity with software and tools commonly used in biomedical informatics, such as electronic health records (EHRs), data analysis software, and programming languages like Python or R.

  • Knowledge of Biomedical Terminology
    Understanding medical terminology and health data standards (such as HL7, LOINC, and SNOMED CT) is essential for effective communication and data integration.

  • Project Management
    Skills in managing projects and timelines effectively, ensuring that all phases of biomedical informatics initiatives are executed on schedule and within budget.

  • Interpersonal Skills
    You demonstrate strong communication abilities, enabling you to collaborate with diverse teams that include healthcare professionals, IT specialists, and researchers.

  • Problem-Solving Skills
    The capability to identify challenges within informatics systems and workflows and to develop practical solutions that enhance data management and usage.

  • Attention to Detail
    A meticulous approach to handling data and documentation ensures accuracy and compliance with regulations and standards in biomedical informatics.

  • Knowledge of Regulatory Standards
    Awareness of HIPAA and other regulatory requirements governing the use of health information, ensuring that all practices comply with legal and ethical standards.

  • Adaptability
    The ability to remain flexible and adjust to new technologies, methodologies, and evolving healthcare policies is vital in this rapidly changing field.

  • Data Management
    Proficiency in data governance practices, including data collection, storage, retrieval, and sharing mechanisms, to maintain integrity and accessibility of health information.

  • Research Skills
    Strong background in research methodologies and the ability to interpret scientific literature to support evidence-based decision-making in biomedical informatics.

  • User Training and Support
    Experience in training end-users on new systems and tools, ensuring that healthcare staff can effectively utilize the informatics solutions you implement.

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 Virginia

  • The demand for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators in Virginia is increasing as healthcare organizations and research institutions recognize the importance of data management and analysis in improving patient care and operational efficiency.

  • Growth potential in this field is promising, driven by the ongoing digitization of health records, advancements in personalized medicine, and the increasing need for data-driven decision-making in both clinical and administrative settings.

  • As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve with the integration of technology, the role of Biomedical Informatics coordinators is becoming more central, meaning you can expect a sustained need for professionals in this area.

  • Key geographical hotspots in Virginia for Biomedical Informatics positions include:

    • Northern Virginia: Home to various healthcare systems, research institutions, and tech companies focusing on health informatics.
    • Richmond: This city houses many large hospitals and healthcare networks that are expanding their informatics capabilities.
    • Charlottesville: Known for its significant academic health center and strong emphasis on research, it presents numerous opportunities in health informatics.
    • Virginia Beach: Growing healthcare facilities and initiatives in this area point to evolving opportunities in biomedical informatics.
  • The presence of higher education institutions in Virginia focusing on health informatics programs adds to the talent pool and supports job availability in this field.

  • Recent trends emphasize the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into healthcare systems, creating an even greater need for professionals skilled in these emerging technologies.

  • Networking within professional organizations and attending regional healthcare conferences can also uncover additional opportunities and provide insights into the evolving job landscape for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators.

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

  • American Medical Informatics Association (AMIA)

    • A premier organization for professionals in the field of informatics, providing resources, training, and a community for networking.
    • Website: www.amia.org
  • Health Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)

    • A global advisor and thought leader supporting the transformation of health through information and technology. Their resources, webinars, and publications are highly valuable.
    • Website: www.himss.org
  • National Library of Medicine (NLM)

    • A key resource for biomedical literature and informatics research, offering access to databases and publications essential for the field.
    • Website: www.nlm.nih.gov
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Public Health Informatics

    • Offers insights into public health informatics and the role of data in healthcare improvements and policy-making.
    • Website: www.cdc.gov/phin
  • The Joint Commission

    • Provides standards and accreditation for healthcare organizations, including guidance on informatics practices.
    • Website: www.jointcommission.org
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH) - National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)

    • Offers resources for accessing and analyzing biological data, essential for those in biomedical informatics.
    • Website: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  • U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) - Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC)

    • Provides information and updates on health IT policy, interoperability, and the nationwide health information network.
    • Website: www.healthit.gov
  • Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) - Special Interest Group on Healthcare Informatics (SIGHealth)

    • A community aimed at furthering knowledge and collaboration in healthcare informatics and applying computing techniques in health.
    • Website: www.sigs.acm.org/sighealth
  • Coursera and edX

    • Online platforms offering courses in health informatics, data analysis, and related subjects that can enhance your knowledge and skills.
    • Coursera: www.coursera.org
    • edX: www.edx.org
  • Books and Journals

    • Consider searching for seminal texts such as:

      • "Health Informatics: An Interprofessional Approach" by Robert E. Hoyt and Ann K. Andresen.
      • Journals such as "Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association" and "International Journal of Medical Informatics" for the latest research and developments in the field.

      These resources will help deepen your understanding of biomedical informatics and facilitate your professional growth as a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator.

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

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator?
    You typically need a bachelor's degree in biomedical informatics, health information management, computer science, or a related field. Many positions also require a master's degree and relevant certifications.

  • What skills are essential for a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator?
    Important skills include analytical thinking, knowledge of health information systems, data management, communication, and project management. Familiarity with healthcare regulations and data privacy laws is also critical.

  • What is the typical salary for a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Virginia?
    Salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, and organization. As of recent data, salaries typically range from $70,000 to $100,000 annually.

  • Where can I find job opportunities as a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator in Virginia?
    Job opportunities can be found on healthcare organization websites, job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor, and professional networks such as LinkedIn. Attending industry conferences can also provide networking opportunities.

  • What are the primary responsibilities of a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator?
    Responsibilities generally include managing health information systems, analyzing clinical data, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and collaborating with healthcare providers to improve data utilization.

  • Is certification necessary for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators?
    While not always required, certification can enhance your qualifications. Consider obtaining certifications such as Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) or Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA).

  • What does a typical work environment look like for a Biomedical Informatics Coordinator?
    Biomedical Informatics Coordinators usually work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or research institutions. The role may involve both office settings and on-site interactions with healthcare professionals.

  • How does this role interact with other healthcare professionals?
    You will frequently collaborate with physicians, nurses, IT staff, and administrative personnel to ensure that systems meet clinical needs and facilitate effective data sharing.

  • What is the job outlook for Biomedical Informatics Coordinators?
    The job outlook is positive due to the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making in healthcare. As healthcare technology continues to advance, the need for skilled professionals in this field is expected to grow.

  • Can I transition to this career from a different field?
    Yes, many professionals transition into biomedical informatics from fields like nursing, IT, or healthcare administration. Relevant experience and additional training in informatics can help with this transition.