Health Informatics Intern

JOB SUMMARY

This position is for a Health Informatics Intern whose responsibility is to support the organization’s clinical and operational teams by assisting with data management, electronic health record (EHR) optimization, reporting, and quality improvement initiatives.  This role provides hands-on experience in applying informatics principles to improve patient care, workflow efficiency and data-driven decision-making in a healthcare environment.  The position reports to the Director of Health Information Management/Privacy and Security Officer. 

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum level of Education: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program in health Informatics, Health Information Management, Public Health, Nursing Informatics, Computer Science or related field. 

Formal Training:  Basic understanding of healthcare terminology and clinical workflows.  Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Strong analytical, organizational and problem-solving skills.  Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Work Experience:  Experience with EHR systems or healthcare databases. Familiar with data analytics tools. Knowledge of HIPAA and healthcare data privacy regulations.  Previous internship or coursework in healthcare analytics or informatics.

Physical Requirements:  Maintaining body equilibrium to meet the physical demands associated with walking, sitting, carrying, pushing, pulling and standing.  Primarily office-based work environment.  Ability to sit, stand and use a computer for extended periods. Occasional lifting of files or materials up to 15 lbs.

CDC Guidelines and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health: Category I – Tasks that involve no exposure to blood, body fluids or tissues. 

Internal & External Contacts: communicates effectively while maintaining confidentiality with: patients, families, medical staff, and other departments and outside agencies.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Learning Objectives

1. Gain exposure to healthcare data systems, HEHR workflows and clinical operations.
2. Develop skills in healthcare analytics, reporting tools and informatics methodologies.
3. Understand regulatory and compliance standards related to health information management.
4. Apply informatics concepts to improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

Competencies

1. Attention to detail and data accuracy.
2. Critical thinking and analytical skills.
3. Ability to maintain confidentiality.
4. Team collaboration and professionalism.
5. Adaptability in a fast-paced healthcare environment.

Core Values

1. Displays organizational core values: We are accountable for our actions.  We are trustworthy and act with respect for ourselves and others in an ethical manner with integrity.  We take pride in our work and are motivated to do the best.  We are dedicated to our professions, our facility and our community.  We are customer focused and strive to be innovative in our delivery of care.            
2. Pays close attention to and is considerate of concerns/matters that patients/residents, families, visitors and co-workers face through words and actions.
3. Displays willingness to help at all times and in all areas to meet the needs of the organization.
4. Displays a team player attitude and takes every opportunity to work well with others.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Assists with data collection, validation, and analysis related to clinical and operational performance metrics.
2. Supports EHR optimization projects, including workflow analysis and documentation.
3. Helps develop reports, dashboards and data visualizations for leadership.
4. Participates in quality improvement and patient safety initiatives using data-driven insights. Collaborate with clinical staff, IT and quality teams to identify opportunities for process improvements.
5. Collaborates with clinical staff, IT and quality teams to identify opportunities for process improvements.
6. Assists in maintaining data integrity, privacy, and security in accordance with HIPAA guidelines. 
7. Supports user training materials, tip sheets, and documentation related to health information systems.
8. Conducts literature review and research on health informatics best practices and emerging technologies.
9. Attends team meetings and contributes to project planning and evaluation.
10. Performs other duties as assigned.