Abstract
Background Health Informatics (HI) is an interdisciplinary field, integrating health sciences,
computer science, information science, and cognitive science to assist health information
management, analysis, and utilization. As the HI field is broad, it is impossible
that a student will be able to master all the diverse HI topics. Thus, it is important
to train the HI students based on the offering of the various HI programs and needs
of the current market. This project will study the U.S. HI programs, training materials,
HI job market, the skillset required by the employers, competencies taught in HI programs,
and comparisons between them.
Methods We collected the training information for the 238 U.S. universities that offered
MS, PhD, or postbaccalaureate certificate programs in HI or related professions. Next,
we explored the HI job market by randomly checking 200 jobs and their required skillsets
and domain knowledge. Then, we compared these skillsets with those offered by the
HI programs and identified the gaps and overlaps for program enhancements.
Results Among the 238 U.S. universities, 94 universities offer HI programs: 92 universities
with MS (Master of Science), 43 with doctoral, 42 with both MS and doctoral, and 54
with certificate programs. The most offered HI courses are related to practicum, data
analytics, research, and ethics. For the HI job postings, the three most technical
skillsets required in HI job posting are data analysis, database management, and knowledge
of electronic health records. However, only 58% of HI programs offer courses in database
management and analytics. Compared with American Medical Informatics Association's
recommended 10 fundamental domains, the HI curriculum generally lacks training in
socio-technical systems, social-behavioral aspects of health, and interprofessional
collaborative practice.
Conclusion There are gaps between the industry expectations of HI and the training received
in HI programs. Advance level technical courses are needed in HI programs to meet
industry expectations.
Keywords
health informatics - HI courses - HI program competencies - HI jobs
