Training Leaders in Health Informatics

Despite the widespread adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) in the U.S. over the past decade, significant improvements, especially in patient safety, have yet to be realized. This finding, along with health informatics workforce data and an identified gap in the offerings of an educational program, led to a proposed professional doctorate in health informatics. Developed via stakeholder focus groups, the program was approved by the public university system, the state-level educational authority, and the regional accreditation body, with final approval in July 2018. Unique features of the program include a prolonged practice project demonstrating a return on investment, as well as online and face-to-face delivery components. This program aims to develop evidence-based professionals who improve the health of people and populations through the application of health informatics. Applications and interest in the first class are high.