Information management
Information managers and analysts within the NHS are responsible for the retrieval, analysis, interpretation and presentation of health data and information, to a high standard. This enables the planning and delivery of patient services and patient care.
Information management and analysis skills are critical to NHS productivity
The NHS Informatics Planning Guide to the NHS Operating Framework for 2009/2010 highlighted the responsibilities of all NHS organisations for:
“Developing information-led rather than systems-led planning, that is integral to local service plans for the delivery of the SHA vision for achieving High Quality Care for All and World Class Commissioning competencies.” (page 6)
Clinical audit, data analysis and information management are therefore particularly important skills for the NHS as it encourages evidence-based practice, measures its performance and improves access to patient records. Practitioners need to understand how the data being analysed has been captured and generated as well as the impact on patient care.
Skills and understanding within this discipline include
- business and data analysis
- clinical audit
- data protection and confidentiality
- information management.
Resources
- Tools and resources for developing skills in data analysis
- Actuarial and modelling skills
- Health Informatics Career Framework (HICF) includes the Information management discipline with about 30 different role profiles relating to information analysis. You can map your career or identify skills to develop to further your prospects.
Related development areas
- Service and quality improvement
- Knowledge management
- Information governance
- Understanding SNOMED CT®
- CPD modules
- Qualifications – many HI degrees and qualifications might include modules on modelling and business analysis
Links
- UKCHIP - UK Council for Health Informatics Professions.
- PRIMIS+ – a free service to primary care organisations to help them improve patient care through the effective use of their clinical computer systems.
- CILIP – Chartered Institute of Library and Information Management Professionals. There is a Healthcare interest group as well as an Information for managing healthcare sub-group.
- SFIAplus – Skills for the Information Age. If already a BCS member, you can browse the framework to look for relevant skills.