Clinical Health IT Developer in Delaware Career Overview

As a Clinical Health IT Developer, you play a significant role in the intersection of healthcare and technology. Your primary responsibility involves designing, developing, and maintaining software applications that support clinical operations and improve patient care. This position requires a deep understanding of both healthcare processes and information technology.

Key aspects of the role include:

  • System Development: You create electronic health record (EHR) systems and other health-related software that facilitate the efficient management of patient information.

  • Integration: You ensure that various healthcare technologies can communicate smoothly. This might involve connecting different software systems, devices, or databases to streamline workflows.

  • Compliance and Security: You focus on creating applications that adhere to healthcare regulations such as HIPAA, maintaining the privacy and security of patient data throughout the development process.

  • User Support and Training: You collaborate with healthcare professionals to understand their needs, providing support and training for the technologies you develop to ensure optimal usage and efficiency.

  • Quality Improvement: You contribute to initiatives aimed at enhancing patient care delivery via technology, utilizing data analytics and reporting to identify opportunities for improvement in clinical processes.

In the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, your role is essential. By leveraging technology, you enhance the efficiency of clinical workflows and improve patient outcomes, making a direct impact on the quality of care provided in healthcare settings.

Clinical Health IT Developer Salary in Delaware

Annual Median: $113,060
Hourly Median: $54.36

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

Required Education To Become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Delaware

To become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Delaware, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training. Consider the following degree programs:

  • Bioinformatics

    • Focuses on the application of computer technology to the management of biological information.
    • Typically combines aspects of biology, computer science, and data analysis.
  • Health and Medical Administrative Services

    • Prepares you to handle administrative tasks in healthcare settings.
    • Coursework may include health policy, accounting for healthcare, and medical record management.
  • Health Information Management

    • Concentrates on the management of health information systems.
    • Emphasizes the collection, storage, and retrieval of health data.
  • Health Information Technology

    • Involves the implementation of technology systems in healthcare.
    • Covers topics such as electronic health records, system analysis, and database management.
  • Computer and Information Sciences

    • Provides foundational knowledge in computer systems, software, and data management.
    • Essential for developing the technical skills necessary for health IT projects.

In addition to obtaining a degree, you may also benefit from specific training programs or certifications related to health IT systems and applications, which further enhance your qualifications.

Best Schools to become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Delaware 2024

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA

In-State Tuition:$10,258
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,370
Admission Rate:17%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:45,296

DeVry University-Illinois

Naperville, IL

In-State Tuition:$14,392
Out-of-State Tuition:$14,392
Admission Rate:43%
Graduation Rate:43%
Total Enrollment:26,384

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI

In-State Tuition:$17,454
Out-of-State Tuition:$56,941
Admission Rate:18%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:51,225

Northeastern University

Boston, MA

In-State Tuition:$59,100
Out-of-State Tuition:$59,100
Admission Rate:7%
Graduation Rate:91%
Total Enrollment:30,013

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

The University of Texas at Dallas

Richardson, TX

In-State Tuition:$14,564
Out-of-State Tuition:$39,776
Admission Rate:85%
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:31,570
Clinical Health IT Developer Job Description:
  • Apply knowledge of nursing and informatics to assist in the design, development, and ongoing modification of computerized health care systems.
  • May educate staff and assist in problem solving to promote the implementation of the health care system.

Clinical Health IT Developer Required Skills and Competencies in Delaware

  • Technical Proficiency: You must have a strong understanding of programming languages such as Java, Python, or C#. Familiarity with databases, particularly SQL, is also essential.

  • Health Informatics Knowledge: Understanding health informatics principles, including electronic health record (EHR) systems and clinical workflows, will enable you to develop effective IT solutions tailored to the healthcare environment.

  • Analytical Skills: You should possess strong analytical abilities to assess healthcare data, identify trends, and troubleshoot issues. An aptitude for problem-solving is critical to success in this role.

  • Project Management: You need to be skilled in managing multiple projects simultaneously. This includes planning, executing, and overseeing IT initiatives within a clinical setting while adhering to timelines and budgets.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary to collaborate with healthcare professionals, stakeholders, and technical teams. You should be able to explain complex technical concepts in an understandable manner.

  • Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in healthcare IT. You must be meticulous in your work to ensure the accuracy and security of data and the functionality of IT systems.

  • Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with healthcare regulations, including HIPAA, is essential. You should understand compliance requirements and be able to integrate them into your IT solutions.

  • User-Centric Design: Developing user-friendly applications and systems requires an understanding of user experience (UX) principles. You should be able to design solutions that meet the needs of healthcare providers and patients.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Building strong relationships with team members and healthcare stakeholders is important. You must be able to work collaboratively across various departments towards shared goals.

  • Adaptability: The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and you need to be flexible and open to new technologies and methodologies. Staying current with industry trends will help you remain effective in your role.

Job Duties for Clinical Health IT Developers

  • Apply knowledge of computer science, information science, nursing, and informatics theory to nursing practice, education, administration, or research, in collaboration with other health informatics specialists.

  • Design, develop, select, test, implement, and evaluate new or modified informatics solutions, data structures, and decision-support mechanisms to support patients, health care professionals, and their information management and human-computer and human-technology interactions within health care contexts.

  • Translate nursing practice information between nurses and systems engineers, analysts, or designers, using object-oriented models or other techniques.

Technologies and Skills Used by Clinical Health IT Developers

Medical software

  • Epic Systems
  • eClinicalWorks EHR software

Object or component oriented development software

  • Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS
  • Perl

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • 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 Clinical Health IT Developer in Delaware

The job market for Clinical Health IT Developers in Delaware is currently characterized by a strong demand, fueled by the ongoing digital transformation in the healthcare sector. Organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating technology to improve patient care, streamline operations, and comply with regulatory requirements. Here are some key aspects of the job market and opportunities in this field:

  • Growing Demand: The push for electronic health records (EHR) and telehealth solutions has significantly increased the need for skilled Clinical Health IT Developers. Healthcare institutions and technology vendors are seeking professionals capable of developing applications that enhance clinical workflows and data management.

  • Expansion in Telehealth: The recent surge in telehealth services has opened new avenues for Clinical Health IT Developers. As healthcare providers continue to expand their telehealth offerings, professionals who can create and maintain these digital platforms will find a wealth of opportunities.

  • Diverse Employers: Potential employers include hospitals, clinics, health systems, and health IT companies. Major healthcare providers in Delaware, such as ChristianaCare and Nemours Children's Health, actively recruit for IT positions that focus on clinical applications and systems.

  • Geographical Hotspots: The Wilmington metropolitan area is a significant hub for healthcare IT jobs, with major healthcare facilities and tech companies located there. Other growing areas in Delaware include New Castle and Dover, where both clinical needs and technology services converge.

  • Networking and Professional Organizations: Participating in local health IT and healthcare management organizations can enhance your job prospects. Delaware hosts groups such as the Delaware Valley Health Care Council, which provides networking opportunities and access to industry developments.

  • Continued Growth Outlook: Projections indicate a continued increase in job opportunities for Clinical Health IT Developers. As healthcare becomes more data-driven and reliant on technology, the demand for skilled professionals in this domain is expected to grow substantially in the coming years.

As the landscape of healthcare technology evolves, Clinical Health IT Developers in Delaware will find themselves at the forefront of innovation, with ample opportunities to shape the future of patient care through advanced IT solutions.

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Clinical Health IT Developer in Delaware

  • HealthIT.gov
    Explore a range of resources, including policies, guidelines, and tools relevant to health information technology.
    Visit HealthIT.gov

  • American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA)
    Access educational materials, best practices, and certifications for professionals in health information management.
    Visit AHIMA

  • Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
    Engage with resources, webinars, and publications dedicated to improving healthcare through IT.
    Visit HIMSS

  • Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
    Stay updated with regulations, compliance information, and resources specific to clinical health IT.
    Visit CMS

  • National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
    Review guidelines and frameworks that focus on cybersecurity and information standards within healthcare.
    Visit NIST

  • The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC)
    Find information on federal health IT initiatives, interoperability standards, and technology infrastructure.
    Visit ONC

  • Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
    Join a network of computing professionals and access research articles and academic resources related to health IT developments.
    Visit ACM

  • Journal of American Medical Informatics Association (JAMIA)
    Read the latest research articles and case studies focusing on informatics and health technology.
    Visit JAMIA

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Discover online courses that can enhance your skills in software development, data analytics, and health informatics.
    Visit LinkedIn Learning

  • Coursera
    Enroll in online courses related to health IT, data science, and programming from accredited institutions.
    Visit Coursera

  • Delaware Department of Health and Social Services
    Access state-specific resources, updates, and initiatives relevant to health IT and clinical applications in Delaware.
    Visit Delaware DHSS

  • DevOps Institute
    Explore best practices and resources for implementing DevOps principles in healthcare software development.
    Visit DevOps Institute

Utilize these resources to enhance your knowledge, refine your skills, and stay informed about the clinical health IT landscape in Delaware.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Clinical Health IT Developer in Delaware

  • What is a Clinical Health IT Developer?
    A Clinical Health IT Developer is a professional who designs, develops, and implements software solutions specifically for the healthcare sector. This role involves creating applications that enhance patient care, manage health data, and comply with regulatory standards.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Clinical Health IT Developer?
    You typically need a bachelor's degree in health informatics, computer science, or a related field. Relevant certifications, such as Certified Professional in Health Informatics (CPHI), can enhance your credentials.

  • What skills are essential for this role?
    Key skills include programming languages (e.g., Java, Python), understanding of healthcare regulations (e.g., HIPAA), data analytics, knowledge of electronic health records (EHR) systems, and strong problem-solving abilities.

  • What is the job outlook for Clinical Health IT Developers in Delaware?
    The job outlook is positive, as the demand for health IT professionals continues to grow due to advances in technology and the increasing need for effective health data management in healthcare settings.

  • What types of employers hire Clinical Health IT Developers?
    Potential employers include hospitals, healthcare systems, health tech companies, government agencies, and consulting firms focused on health IT solutions.

  • What does a typical day look like for a Clinical Health IT Developer?
    Your day may involve coding, collaborating with healthcare professionals to gather requirements, testing applications, troubleshooting issues, and staying updated with healthcare technology trends.

  • How does this role contribute to patient care?
    By developing efficient and user-friendly health IT systems, you enable better access to patient information, streamline workflows for healthcare providers, and improve overall patient outcomes.

  • What continuing education opportunities are available?
    Many organizations offer workshops, webinars, and certification programs focused on emerging technologies and regulatory changes within health IT. Networking through professional organizations can also provide valuable insights and resources.

  • Are remote work options available for Clinical Health IT Developers?
    Yes, many healthcare organizations and tech companies offer remote work flexibility. However, some positions may require on-site presence for collaboration, testing, or access to sensitive systems.

  • What challenges might I face in this career?
    Common challenges include keeping up with rapid technological advancements, navigating complex regulatory environments, and managing data security and privacy concerns within healthcare applications.