Biomedical Informatics Specialist Certifications

Clinical informatics may become a medical board specialty in the future, but most biomedical informatics specialists do not need to be concerned about licensing. Biomedical informatics is actually one of the few health fields where certification is not the norm and is not necessarily an asset — at least in the English speaking world. (There is a national certification exam in India, but it is not widely recognized in the United States.)

Instead of focusing on an exam, a biomedical informatics specialist should work on their curriculum vitae, or expanded resume. It will take a person quite a few years to complete their education, but internship opportunities are available at virtually every step along the way. Future employers will look for candidates that have experience with particular types of information systems and data bases. The desired knowledge may include anything from basic computer languages and operating systems (Linux, Java) to field-specific knowledge like clinical documentation deidentification and second generation sequencing analysis. You’ll want your resume to show depth and breadth, and you’ll want to be able discuss a range of concepts.

While certification is not necessary, professional membership can be an asset. Biomedical informatics specialists can look to the American Medical Informatics Association for guidance. Resources include publications, continuing education, and symposiums. There are networking opportunities and awards to honor informatics specialists at different stages of their careers. AMIA fellows are elected by their peers; this honor is for those who have already made a significant contribution to the field. Students, however, are also eligible for honors — especially if they are very good at writing a paper.