Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/hi-five-clinical
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, understanding health informatics is no longer a niche skill but a fundamental necessity. For those in clinical roles seeking to grasp the practical applications of health IT, Columbia University’s “HI-FIVE: Health Informatics For Innovation, Value & Enrichment (Clinical Perspective)” on Coursera offers a compelling and accessible entry point.
This 12-hour online course, developed in 2016 with support from the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), is designed with a clear purpose: to provide a role-based understanding of health informatics through engaging case scenarios. The core of the course revolves around the journey of a fictional patient, Mr. Osner Santana, as he navigates the healthcare system. Through his experiences, from arriving at the Emergency Department to interacting with Dr. Jefferson, the course effectively illustrates key concepts in health informatics in a relatable and memorable way.
The syllabus is structured logically, starting with a broad introduction to the course and its foundational case. It then dives deep into Mr. Santana’s patient journey, breaking it down into manageable segments like his wait time and his consultations. This narrative approach is a significant strength, making complex topics like electronic health records (EHRs), data management, and patient engagement feel tangible and relevant to everyday clinical practice.
What truly sets HI-FIVE apart is its optional, role-based content. Recognizing that the application of health informatics varies across different clinical professions, Columbia University has provided supplementary modules tailored for physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, clinical executives, managers, public health professionals, nurses, midwives, medical assistants, and other clinical support staff. These optional sections allow learners to delve deeper into specific areas pertinent to their roles, reinforcing learning with targeted quizzes. This thoughtful segmentation ensures that the course is not just informative but also highly practical for a diverse range of healthcare professionals.
While the course suggests a one-month completion timeframe, its self-paced nature is a major advantage. This flexibility allows busy clinicians to integrate learning into their demanding schedules without pressure. The case-scenario driven methodology, combined with the optional role-specific content, makes HI-FIVE an excellent recommendation for any healthcare professional looking to enhance their understanding of how technology can drive innovation, improve value, and enrich patient care. It’s a valuable investment for those seeking to navigate and contribute to the digital transformation of healthcare.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/hi-five-clinical