Clinical Health IT Developer in New Mexico Career Overview

As a Clinical Health IT Developer, you play a vital role in the intersection of healthcare and technology. Your focus is on creating, implementing, and maintaining software solutions tailored to improve patient care and streamline healthcare operations. The constantly evolving healthcare landscape demands that you remain adaptable, utilizing technology to enhance clinical processes and ensure accurate data management.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • System Development: You design and build applications that support electronic health records (EHR), telemedicine, and other health information systems, ensuring these platforms are user-friendly for healthcare professionals.

  • Data Integration: You work on integrating various data sources, such as lab results, imaging, and patient records, which allows for comprehensive patient care and informed decision-making.

  • Quality Assurance: You test and validate new systems or updates to uphold high standards of performance and reliability, identifying and resolving issues before they impact end-users.

  • Collaboration: Engaging with healthcare professionals is essential. You gather requirements and feedback to ensure that the developed technologies meet the needs of clinicians, patients, and administrative staff.

  • Compliance and Security: You ensure that all technological solutions comply with healthcare regulations such as HIPAA, prioritizing the privacy and security of patient information.

  • Continuous Improvement: Keeping abreast of the latest advancements in health IT is necessary. You assess current technologies, recommending upgrades or new solutions that enhance workflow efficiency and patient safety.

Your expertise contributes significantly to improving patient outcomes, enabling healthcare providers to deliver more efficient and effective care. The clinical health IT sector continues to expand, making your role increasingly important in modern healthcare settings.

Clinical Health IT Developer Salary in New Mexico

Annual Median: $88,440
Hourly Median: $42.52

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 New Mexico

To become a Clinical Health IT Developer in New Mexico, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the relevant degree programs you should consider:

  • Bioinformatics: A degree in bioinformatics combines biology, computer science, and information technology. This program focuses on managing and analyzing biological data, which is vital for developing health IT solutions.

  • Health and Medical Administrative Services: This degree provides knowledge about the administrative aspects of healthcare systems, equipping you with skills related to health IT systems, patient records management, and healthcare policies.

  • Health Information Management: A program in health information management emphasizes the management of patient health information and medical records. You will learn about data management practices, legal standards, and the technical aspects of health IT.

  • Health Information Technology: This degree focuses on the technological components of healthcare systems, including the design and implementation of health software and electronic health records. You'll gain expertise in managing health data and health IT infrastructures.

  • Computer and Information Sciences: A degree in computer and information sciences covers the principles of computer science and information technology. You will learn programming, systems analysis, and database management, providing a strong foundation for building health IT applications.

Each of these degree programs will provide you with the educational background necessary for a career as a Clinical Health IT Developer. Choose the one that aligns best with your interests and career goals.

Best Schools to become a Clinical Health IT Developer in New Mexico 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 New Mexico

  • Technical Proficiency: You need a strong understanding of health information technology, including electronic health records (EHR) systems, health data interoperability, and data standards like HL7 and FHIR.

  • Programming Skills: Familiarity with programming languages such as Java, C#, Python, or Ruby is important. You should be comfortable writing code for applications that support clinical workflows and data management.

  • Database Management: Knowledge of database systems, particularly SQL and NoSQL, will help you design, maintain, and query health data efficiently.

  • Healthcare Process Understanding: You must comprehend clinical workflows, patient care processes, and the regulatory framework within which healthcare operates to create effective IT solutions.

  • Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities enable you to assess health data, identify trends, and implement solutions that improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

  • Project Management: You should possess skills in managing projects from conception through execution, ensuring that IT implementations are completed on time, within scope, and to the satisfaction of stakeholders.

  • Communication Skills: Being able to communicate complex technological concepts to non-technical stakeholders is essential. You need to work closely with healthcare professionals, requiring both verbal and written communication proficiency.

  • Attention to Detail: Accuracy in coding, data entry, and system configurations is vital. You must consistently ensure that all health IT solutions meet high standards of quality and compliance.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: You should be adept at diagnosing issues and developing practical solutions to overcome challenges in health IT systems.

  • Adaptability: The healthcare environment is constantly evolving. You need to be flexible and willing to learn new technologies and methodologies to stay current in your field.

  • User Experience Design: Understanding the principles of user-centered design would aid you in developing interfaces that enhance usability and user satisfaction for healthcare providers.

  • Collaborative Skills: You often work as part of interdisciplinary teams. Being able to collaborate effectively with various professionals is essential for successful project outcomes.

  • Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with healthcare regulations, such as HIPAA and CMS guidelines, is necessary to ensure that health IT solutions are compliant and secure.

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 New Mexico

  • The demand for Clinical Health IT Developers is on the rise, bolstered by the increasing reliance on technology within healthcare settings. As healthcare organizations aim to optimize patient care through advanced IT systems, the role of Clinical Health IT Developers becomes more vital.

  • Growth potential in this field is significant. The shift towards electronic health records (EHR) and advanced data analytics means that organizations are actively seeking skilled professionals to help build, manage, and enhance these systems. Future projections suggest that roles related to health information technology will grow faster than average across many sectors.

  • In New Mexico, specific geographical hotspots for Clinical Health IT Developers include:

    • Albuquerque: As the largest city and a prominent healthcare hub, Albuquerque hosts numerous healthcare facilities and institutions that require IT support. Hospitals and health systems are increasingly investing in IT infrastructure, creating job opportunities.
    • Santa Fe: Known for a variety of healthcare organizations, Santa Fe offers a smaller, yet growing market for Clinical Health IT Developers. The focus on community health care and integration of IT in public health serves as a catalyst for demand.
    • Las Cruces: With a developing healthcare landscape, Las Cruces is expanding its services and IT needs. The establishment of new medical facilities can amplify the demand for IT professionals specializing in health systems.
  • Rural areas in New Mexico are also seeing a push towards better healthcare technology solutions. As telemedicine becomes more prevalent in these regions, the necessity for skilled developers to manage and enhance these platforms is increasing.

  • Organizations in New Mexico are not only looking for developers but also for those who can facilitate the integration of IT systems into clinical settings, improving workflows and patient outcomes. This growing trend indicates a burgeoning market for individuals in this specialty.

  • Networking opportunities abound amid local conferences, workshops, and events aimed at health information technology, reinforcing community connections and fostering career advancements for Clinical Health IT Developers in the state.

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

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

  • What does a Clinical Health IT Developer do?
    A Clinical Health IT Developer designs, builds, and maintains software systems that support healthcare practices. This includes electronic health record (EHR) systems, telemedicine platforms, and data management tools tailored for clinical settings.

  • What educational qualifications are required for this career?
    Typically, a bachelor’s degree in health information technology, computer science, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specific certifications in health informatics may enhance your job prospects.

  • What programming languages should I know?
    Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, and SQL is essential. Familiarity with healthcare-specific languages like HL7 and FHIR can also be beneficial.

  • Are there specific certifications I should pursue?
    Consider certifications such as Certified Health Data Analyst (CHDA), Certified Professional in Health Information Management (CPHIMSS), or Certified Health Informatics Systems Architect (CHISA) to demonstrate your expertise and stand out in the industry.

  • What skills are important for a Clinical Health IT Developer?
    Key skills include:

    • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
    • Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance standards
    • Knowledge of cybersecurity practices
    • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • What is the job outlook for Clinical Health IT Developers in New Mexico?
    The demand for Clinical Health IT Developers is anticipated to grow as healthcare organizations continue to implement advanced technology solutions. The job market in New Mexico is expected to reflect national trends with a focus on improving patient care through technology.

  • Where can I find job opportunities in this field?
    Job opportunities can be found through various channels:

    • Online job boards such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor
    • Networking events and local health IT meetups
    • Professional organizations such as the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
  • What is the typical salary range for Clinical Health IT Developers in New Mexico?
    Salary can vary based on experience, education, and location within the state. As of the latest data, the typical salary for this role in New Mexico ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually.

  • Is remote work an option for Clinical Health IT Developers?
    Yes, many Clinical Health IT Developers have the opportunity to work remotely, depending on the employer's policies and the nature of the projects. Flexible work arrangements are becoming more common in the healthcare IT sector.

  • What career advancement opportunities exist in this field?
    With experience, you can advance to roles such as Health IT Project Manager, Health Informatics Director, or Chief Information Officer (CIO) in healthcare organizations. Continuing your education and obtaining advanced certifications can further enhance your career prospects.