How to get started in health informatics

Learn how data and AI are revolutionising healthcare. Explore study options, career paths, and how you can build a rewarding career in the rapidly growing field

What is health informatics?

Health informatics involves gathering, analysing, and utilising data to enhance healthcare. Closely related, hospital informatics integrates technology and medicine by using digital information and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve healthcare service quality.Ìý

The main purpose of informatics is to provide healthcare professionals with easy access to digital patient records and diagnostic tools, enabling them to make informed decisions and deliver better patient outcomes.Ìý

With the rise of AI, the healthcare industry has entered a new era of health informatics, with AI algorithms used to screen large amounts of medical data. As Dr Tasakis, a bioinformatics scientist at Solvuu, explains, 'it can help clinicians analyse images, including screenings for breast cancer and other types of cancer.'

Health informatics is also driving significant advancements in personalised medicine. 'In cancer treatment, therapies like CAR-T, a type of individualised cellular therapy, consider the patient's specific genetic makeup for tailored treatment,' adds Dr Tasakis.Ìý

This technology can also assist with disease prediction and drug discovery, making it crucial to improving healthcare quality, efficiency, and accessibility.

What are my study options?

Health informatics Bachelors degreesÌý

Providing a strong foundation in applying information science and technology to healthcare, Dr Tasakis explains, 'Graduates with a Bachelors degree, coupled with relevant experience and training, may find themselves equipped for supportive roles within teams.'

Health informatics is an advanced and relatively new field and as such, undergraduate options are limited. However, the University of West London does offer the BSc in Biomedical Informatics, which focuses on the practical applications in everyday healthcare solutions, building a strong foundation in modern bioscience and informatics.ÌýÌý

Areas of study include:Ìý

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• person-centred health and social care.Ìý

Alternatively, Bachelors degrees in information systems, computer science, or related health or biology disciplines can provide entry points.Ìý

Health informatics Masters degreesÌý

Relatively few people have a recognised health informatics qualification, meaning those with a postgraduate degree will have the competitive edge. 'Graduates with advanced degrees often find themselves well-suited for leadership roles within the industry,' says Dr Tasakis.Ìý

There are several MSc courses available in health informatics, which can be studied full time for one year or part time for two to five years.ÌýÌý

Some examples of these courses are offered by:Ìý

• The University of Manchester Ìý
• University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)Ìý
• University College London (UCL) Ìý
• University of Leeds Ìý
• University of Surrey Ìý
• University of West London Ìý
• Swansea University.Ìý

To be eligible, you must possess a relevant degree in a subject such as:Ìý

• biological sciencesÌýÌý
• computer scienceÌý
• health services researchÌý
• nursing.ÌýÌý

However, if you do not have a degree in any of these subjects, then relevant professional experience may also be taken into consideration.Ìý

Each course will have specific modules, but you can expect to write a dissertation and study modules such as:Ìý

• health informatics researchÌý
• knowledge management in healthcareÌý
• secondary health data.Ìý

Upon graduation, you will be eligible for senior informatician jobs in the NHS and private sector, such as project managers, senior analysts, and specialised software development.Ìý

Search for postgraduate courses in health informatics.Ìý

Postgraduate diplomas and certificates in health informaticsÌý

Postgraduate certificates (PGCert) and postgraduate diplomas (PGDip) in health informatics provide in-depth knowledge and skills in applying information and communication technologies to healthcare.Ìý

The PGCert typically focuses on foundational concepts, while the PGDip delves deeper into specific areas like:Ìý

• clinical decision support systemsÌýÌý
• data analysisÌý
• health information management.ÌýÌý

These programmes are designed for healthcare professionals, IT specialists, and professionals seeking to advance their careers in this rapidly evolving field.Ìý

Providers include:Ìý

• Clinical Data Science PGCert - The University of ManchesterÌý
• Healthcare Data PGDipÌý - The University of CambridgeÌý
• Health Informatics with Data Science PGDip - University of Leeds.

Many universities also offer either a PGDip or a PGCert alongside their MSc course, allowing students to combine compulsory and optional modules to tailor their qualification to their interests.Ìý

Alternative providers include the NHS Health Informatics - Graduate Management Training Scheme. Trainees gain hands-on experience through placements in various NHS organisations, while also earning academic qualifications such as a PGDip in data analytics and a PGCert in healthcare leadership.Ìý

Short courses, like the Health Informatics Certificate from the University of Lancaster, are also available for healthcare professionals. These courses serve as continuing professional development for qualified professionals, enabling them to apply health informatics in healthcare settings.Ìý

Discover more about studying a PGCert or PGDip, or see our guidance on professional qualifications.Ìý

What skills do I need to succeed in health informatics?

Success in the field of health informatics requires a combination of technical, analytical, communication, and field-specific expertise. 'With healthcare challenges becoming increasingly intricate, there's a growing demand for health informatics professionals and innovators who are skilled at identifying problems, discerning their root causes, and proposing practical solutions,' says Dr Tasakis.Ìý

Here is a breakdown of the key skills you'll need:Ìý

• data analysis - the ability to analyse and interpret healthcare data to gain insights and make informed decisions. Ìý
• data management - a thorough understanding of database systems, data modelling, and data warehousing. Ìý
• health information technologies - familiarity with Electronic Health Records (EHRs), health information exchange (HIE), and other health IT systems. Ìý
• ±è°ù´Ç²µ°ù²¹³¾³¾¾±²Ô²µâ€¯- proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or SQL for data analysis and manipulation. Ìý
• statistics - knowledge of statistical methods and tools to draw meaningful conclusions from healthcare data. 

What health informatics jobs are available?

The NHS breaks down roles into seven key areas:Ìý

• Clinical informatics - collecting and analysing data and communicating it to health professionals who can use it to improve patient care. Ìý
• Education and training - ensuring that healthcare staff are trained to use the latest technologies. Ìý
• Health records and training administration - collating, storing and retrieving healthcare records that are used to diagnose and treat patients. Ìý
• Information and communication technology - maintaining and developing IT infrastructure. Ìý
• Information management staff - analysing, interpreting and presenting health data to help plan and deliver patient care. Ìý
• Library, knowledge and information services - ensuring that staff, patients and the public have access to the right information when they need it. Ìý
• Project and programme management - managing major projects to implement new digital systems that put informatics at the forefront of healthcare. Ìý

Read more about the job roles on offer in health informatics at Health Careers - Roles in health informatics. Alternatively, you can see what jobs are available and the qualifications needed by searching 'informatics' on NHS jobs.Ìý

How do I get a job in health informatics?

Work experienceÌý

Health informatics is a field where both theoretical knowledge and practical application are crucial. Internships offer a valuable opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world healthcare settings.Ìý

Actively seek internships at hospitals, clinics, or healthcare IT companies to improve your chances of landing a role and to find out if the field is for you.Ìý

Consider exploring these internship options:Ìý

• Health Analytics Postgraduate Internship - LCPÌý
• Health Data Science Black Internship Programme - HDR UKÌý
• HDI Internship Programme - Health Data InsightÌý
• Informatics Industrial PlacementÌý - Medpace Inc.Ìý

Search for internships in healthcare.Ìý

Health informatics encompasses various specialisations. Volunteering in healthcare environments can broaden your understanding of the industry. You'll get to observe how various health informatics tools and technologies are utilised in practice, such as:Ìý

• electronic health records (EHRs)Ìý
• data analytics softwareÌý
• telemedicine platforms.Ìý

Many hospitals have their own volunteer programmes. Visit NHS - Volunteering to explore current openings or use VolunteerMatch to search for volunteer opportunities by location, cause area, and skills.Ìý

Applying for jobsÌý

When applying for health informatics positions, tailor your CV and cover letter to each specific job description. This involves carefully reviewing the job posting to identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking and then showcasing how your own skills and experience align with their requirements.Ìý

Prepare thoroughly for interviews by researching potential employers to understand their values and how your skills align with their needs. You can also follow the company on LinkedIn and read any employee case studies.Ìý

Be ready to confidently discuss your:Ìý

• technical expertiseÌý
• healthcare knowledgeÌý
• career aspirations in the field of health informatics.Ìý

Search for graduate vacancies in healthcare.Ìý

Career developmentÌý

The field of health informatics is constantly evolving due to advancements in technology and healthcare, creating exciting career opportunities for professionals from various backgrounds, including:Ìý

• data scienceÌý
• healthcareÌý
• IT.ÌýÌýÌý

Dr Tasakis notes that advancements such as wearable devices, alerting individuals to seek medical attention when necessary, are fuelling demand for professionals across various sectors, including data scientists, technologists, (bio)informaticians, and cybersecurity specialists.Ìý

This allows professionals to transition into health informatics from other healthcare roles or IT jobs l¾±°ì±ð website development. Ìý

Some of the most sought-after roles include:Ìý

• applications developerÌý
• data analyst
• data scientist 
• machine learning engineer 
• project manager. Ìý

Discover CPD opportunities for graduates.Ìý

How much will I be paid working in health informatics?

Your specialism in health informatics will determine your salary.ÌýÌý

For example, a health informatics specialist's salary in the UK is estimated at £32,000 to £66,000 per year. In contrast, a clinical informatics specialist's salary ranges from £37,000 to £56,598.Ìý

The salary for a health informatics professional can vary depending on several factors, including:Ìý

• Experience - entry-level positions generally pay less than jobs expecting several years of experience.  ÌýÌý
• Education - a Bachelors degree is often the minimum requirement, but a Masters degree can lead to higher earning potential.Ìý
• Location - salaries tend to be higher in major cities with a high cost of living, such as London.  ÌýÌý

Find out more

• Search postgraduate courses in health informatics.
• Explore theÌýhealthcare sector.