A clinical systems analyst typically oversees the computer systems for a hospital, physician’s clinic or other healthcare operation, maintaining both the system’s security and operational efficiency.
While the specific job duties can vary depending on the organization, a clinical systems analyst works to ensure that computer systems can support both current operations and goals for the future. They both implement and maintain computer systems.
They may also oversee a staff of employees and help develop plans for how to train both technical personnel and end users throughout the operation on how to properly access and use information from the system. Security is also a vital component of the job.
The switch to electronic healthcare records that started under President Barack Obama has only been the start for medical operations. Innovations in technology have demanded more sophisticated software and the incorporation of machine learning, artificial intelligence and the internet of things.
This has only increased the need for skilled, knowledgeable clinical systems analysts with the proper mix of technology and management skills.
Job Duties for a Clinical Systems Analyst
Clinical systems analysts play a key role in identifying the systems needs for a healthcare operation. Working with other executives, they determine what is required for future growth and efficiency and make recommendations on software to either buy or have supplied by outside vendors.
They also maintain all systems and adjust as needed to ensure these systems are meeting the clinical and business requirements for the healthcare operation.
Other job duties, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), may include the following:
- Coding, testing and implementing custom or vendor supplied systems software.
- Designing and implementing process changes for electronic healthcare records
- Designing applications to best meet business goals and functional requirements
- Devising ways to add new functionality to existing computer systems
- Researching emerging technologies to determine what can increase an organization’s efficiency and effectiveness
- Developing and coordinating comprehensive systems test plans.
- Documenting all work per IT standards and process including change management.
- Coordinating all documentation of systems policies and procedures as well as training materials
- Training the systems’ end users
Depending on the employer and the size and nature of the healthcare operation, the job duties can vary. But in every case, those seeking this job should be prepared to oversee all the facets of computer systems.
Job Growth and Salary
Clinical systems analyst is a job in demand. While the federal government does not separate computer analysts working in healthcare from others, the BLS projects 9% growth in all computer analyst jobs by 2026. That translates to more than 54,000 people entering the field.
The average annual pay for computer analysts nationwide was $92,740 in May 2017, according to the BLS. Florida, already one of the Top 10 states for employment of computer systems analysts, is projected to have a 17% increase in the profession by 2026, according to the BLS-powered Projections Central.
Education and Skills
Clearly, clinical systems analysts have a high level of responsibility. Entering the profession typically requires at least a bachelor’s degree. However, as noted by the BLS, more complex jobs may require a master’s degree.
Earning a graduate certificate in health informatics may help prepare graduates for taking on clinical systems analyst jobs. Such courses offer students foundational knowledge in managing computer information systems in a healthcare setting.
Important skills for the job also include the soft skills needed for management (such as communication skills), creativity when approaching problem-solving and analytical skills.
*National long-term projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions, and do not guarantee actual job growth. Information provided is not intended to represent a complete list of hiring companies or job titles, and program options do not guarantee career or salary outcomes. Students should conduct independent research for specific employment information.
