Health informatics program design and outcomes: Learning from an early offering at a mid-level university

Abstract

Curriculum development is particularly challenging in computing-related disciplines as the computing industry changes more quickly than most. As information technology degrees have become relatively pervasive, some institutions that offer information systems degrees have recognized a need to develop specialist studies in information systems. This detailed case study shows the forces related to a successful implementation of new Health Informatics degrees. The case describes both an unsuccessful and then a successful attempt at essentially the same curriculum development. Although the case includes some local political factors, these represent typical considerations that a curriculum developer is likely to encounter.

Internship Programs for Undergraduate Health Informatics Students in Saudi Arabia

“…This responsibilities. Furthermore, participants' suggestions are consistent with the previous studies [3,37] about the need to clarify the health informatics interns' roles and responsibilities and ensure that internship activities are linked to their roles [33,36]. This agreement confirms the need for the collaboration between academic institutions and the Saudi health care sector in order to build health informatics competencies framework to serve both health informatics specialists and interns [1,40].…”

“…More than 50% of the participants did not have prior experience with topics such as health image, health data collection and storage and communication protocols [26]. Likewise, health informatics students' exposure to health information systems within the health care environment is considered as a critical issue [3].…”

“…The internship experience provides me with the relevant knowledge and practical experience to assist me in adapting myself to my future working environment 3.07…”

“…The internship programme is able to give me the opportunity to build up rapport and networking with people in the industry and business arena 3.79…”

“…Health informatics training programs are usually associated with acquiring skills in using or implementing health information systems [3,4]. Health informatics training is an educational method that enables the students to use or implement health information systems, such as an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, Hospital Information Systems, and other health information technologies [4].…”