MSM and HIMSS Global Health Equity Network Partner to Innovate Health Informatics Program
Bridge to Health Informatics Pipeline and Master of Science in Health Informatics Programs offer unique and exciting healthcare industry career opportunities.
ATLANTA -- June 15, 2021 -- Morehouse School of Medicine is launching a 14-month online Master of Science in Health Informatics (MSHI) program and a 5-week Bridge to Health Informatics (B2HI) Pipeline program in partnership with the HIMSS Global Health Equity Network. The partnership will provide an opportunity for HIMSS to champion workforce development, diversity, and equity in the healthcare industry, and for Morehouse School of Medicine to offer programs and training that will address the needs of a rapidly changing and evolving healthcare technology industry, as well as create a culturally competent and diverse workforce.
Less than three percent of the health information technology workforce are Black Americans, according to research from Morehouse School of Medicine. Diversity in health informatics is imperative, and the increasing reliance on data and digital health technology, e.g., telemedicine, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has intensified the need to train students in health informatics.
“Morehouse School of Medicine and HIMSS recognize the opportunity and growth within telemedicine and health informatics, and the Master of Science in Health Informatics program aims to prepare and train future healthcare leaders,” said Angelita Howard, PhD, assistant professor and assistant dean for Online Education & Expanded Programs.
“As we have seen because of the pandemic, there’s a strong need for a diverse workforce with strong technology training and understanding. This will not change once we have defeated COVID-19; the need will only grow. These programs will prepare clinicians to give patients the care they need,” added James Lillard, PhD MBA, professor and associate dean for Research Affairs.
This partnership will include, but is not limited to:
- Working with Morehouse School of Medicine to identify financial support for the B2HI program and MSHI program scholarships
- Exploring the creation of internship program via the HIMSS Office of Scientific Research
- HIMSS certification and membership
- Opportunities for HIMSS to champion workforce development, diversity, and equity in the healthcare industry
“Creating a diverse workforce is essential to improving health outcomes, impacting social determinants of health and achieving digital transformation. HIMSS is proud to partner with Morehouse School of Medicine to ensure our healthcare leaders of the future are equipped with the knowledge and understanding needed to implement digital health solutions in order to expand equitable access to healthcare and mitigate health disparities,” said Hal Wolf, president and CEO of HIMSS.
Pending SACSCOC Approval for the MSHI.
About Morehouse School of Medicine
Founded in 1975, Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) is among the nation’s leading educators of primary care physicians, biomedical scientists, and public health professionals. An independent and private historically-Black medical school, MSM was recognized by the Annals of Internal Medicine as the nation’s number one medical school in fulfilling a social mission—the creation and advancement of health equity. MSM faculty and alumni are noted for excellence in teaching, research, and public policy, as well as exceptional patient care. MSM is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award doctoral and master’s degrees. To learn more about programs and donate today, please visit www.msm.edu or call 404-752-1500.
About HIMSS Global Health Equity Network
The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, Inc. (HIMSS) is a global advisor, thought leader and member association committed to transforming the health ecosystem. As a mission-driven non-profit, HIMSS offers a unique depth and breadth of expertise in public policy, workforce development, research and analytics to advise global leaders, stakeholders and influencers on best practices. Through our innovation engine, HIMSS delivers key insights, solutions, education and engaging events to healthcare providers, payers, governments, startups, life sciences and other health services organizations, ensuring they have the right information at the point of decision. HIMSS serves the global health community, with focused operations across North America, Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific.
HIMSS Global Health Equity Network (GHEN) provides members of our diverse communities with insights, best practices and resources through virtual and in-person education, events and networking. The network advocates for underserved groups across the global health ecosystem, and collaborates to find real-world solutions to challenges and roadblocks. Members dialogue with an inclusive group of leaders in healthcare, health information and technology, and government to improve access to care and outcomes. Learn more at www.himss.org/ghen.
Contact
Nicole V. Linton
404-756-5238
nlinton@msm.edu