Clinical Informatics Specialist

Job Description

Job ID: 26486
Agency: Department of Corrections - Correctional Health
Location: Statewide
Salary: $32.34 to $38.02 per hour - Depending on Experience
Pay Grade: N1
Closing Date: Open Until Filled

This is a Full-Time 40 Hours Weekly position with the Department of Corrections. For more information on the Department of Corrections, please visit https://doc.sd.gov/ .

The Clinical Informatics Specialist is responsible for serving as the electronic health record (EHR) analyst. This position requires the candidate to leverage their nursing expertise to develop, optimize, and manage the EHR system, aiming to achieve a smooth workflow, accurate data tracking, and compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. In this position, the individual will take the lead in analyzing EHR data, gathering data for Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI), and working together with external vendors to address challenging EHR issues and devise implementation strategies for corrective action plans.

Why the Department of Corrections?

As a Department of Corrections employee, you will have a chance to experience:

• Creativity - We are always looking for innovative ideas to help us achieve improved outcomes.
• Making a difference - You will have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of fellow South Dakotans.
• Professional development - We provide valuable training to ensure well-trained staff that is competent, accountable, and empowered and will assist you in reaching your career goals.
• Teamwork - In a team-oriented approach, you will have the ability to work cooperatively with others in a friendly work environment to achieve shared goals.

What you will do:

Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Ensure that established workflows are designed to facilitate the extraction of data, reports, and quality metrics.
• Establish and maintain systems for the routine distribution of data, reports, and the development, enhancement, and maintenance of the electronic health record system tailored to meet the unique requirements of correctional healthcare.
• Conduct thorough analysis of EHR data to identify trends, disparities, and opportunities for improvement, enabling evidence-based decision-making and nursing interventions.
• Participate in Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) initiatives by leveraging insights from EHR data for multidisciplinary collaboration and the implementation of sustainable process enhancements.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between the correctional facility and EHR vendors, advocating for efficient workflow processes and overseeing the resolution of complex technical issues.
• Provide expert guidance and mentorship to Clinical Services staff on EHR utilization, documentation best practices, and regulatory compliance, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
• Proactively identify and address risks associated with EHR usage, ensuring data integrity, confidentiality, and accessibility in line with industry standards and legal requirements.
• Lead training programs and educational sessions on advanced EHR functionalities, clinical decision support tools, and emerging healthcare technologies to empower nursing staff and optimize patient care outcomes.
• Stay updated on regulatory changes, industry trends, and technological advancements in EHR systems, advocating for system upgrades, integrations, and innovative solutions to improve clinical practice and enhance patient safety.

Qualifications:

• A valid Registered Nurse (RN) license is required, with a preference given to candidates with a bachelor's degree in nursing. Having an advanced certification in nursing informatics is highly desirable.
• Candidates should have a minimum of 1 year of experience as a registered nurse with progressive growth in their role. They should also have a proven track record of effectively utilizing, managing, and optimizing Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems. Experience in correctional health is desired.
• Expertise in nursing theory, practice, and adherence to standards of care is crucial. Candidates should also possess a comprehensive understanding of healthcare data analytics, clinical informatics, and principles of evidence-based practice.
• Proficiency in utilizing advanced functionalities of EHR systems, data visualization tools, and clinical decision support systems to enhance clinical practice and improve patient outcomes is required.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills are essential. Candidates must be able to influence stakeholders, navigate organizational dynamics, and cultivate collaborative relationships across various departments.
• Strong project management skills, such as prioritizing competing demands, delegating tasks effectively, and leading interdisciplinary teams, are necessary to achieve strategic objectives.
• Demonstrated commitment to professional development, continuous learning, and staying up to date with evolving clinical informatics standards, regulations, and industry best practices is expected.
• Candidates must possess integrity, professionalism, and a passion for advancing clinical practice and healthcare delivery within the distinctive context of correctional institutions.

Conditions of Employment:

The SD DOC is committed to a work environment free from illegal drugs and alcohol. All job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background investigation, urine drug screen, and the candidate's ability to perform the essential functions of the position.

Individuals selected for the position will have the opportunity to carry Oleoresin Capsicum (OC/pepper spray) if desired. If OC spray is carried, the staff carrying OC spray will be required to have direct (level 1) exposure during the training program. Individuals selected for the position must successfully complete a written and practical self-defense exam and successfully complete CPR to AHA guidelines - this includes successful completion of the practical/hands-on portion as well as the written exam. Selected individuals must possess the physical ability to successfully complete the practical self-defense exam, which involves the following:

• lift arms above head and kick as high as own waist.
• stabilize another person to accomplish a controlled takedown.
• use arms, palms of hands, and feet to deliver blows.
• withstand impact (slow speed or with a safety bag) on own body from strikes/blows.
• rotate body 90 degrees with feet planted for striking with foot or using a defensive tactic.
• get down on one or both knees and up again with multiple repetitions.

Additionally, TB (tuberculosis) screening is required of all new employees upon hire.

This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act.
This position is eligible for Veterans' Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

Successful applicant(s) will be required to undergo a background investigation. An arrest/conviction record will not necessarily bar employment. Offers of employment are conditional upon successful completion of a drug screening.

NCRC: If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For more information on how to acquire a National Career Readiness Certificate contact a South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation Job Service Office. A certificate is not necessary to be considered.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers employer paid health insurance plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information at https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/ . This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

Must apply online: https://sodakprod-lm01.cloud.infor.com:1443/lmghr/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=P6R
You must apply online, emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"