What Does an Epic Project Manager Do?

The Epic Project Manager plays a central role in orchestrating the implementation and optimization of Epic Systems software within healthcare organizations. This position involves coordinating with various stakeholders, including IT professionals, clinicians, and administrative staff, to ensure the successful deployment and integration of Epic’s suite of healthcare applications. By managing timelines, resources, and project scopes, the Epic Project Manager ensures that the software implementation aligns with the organization’s goals, ultimately facilitating improved patient care and operational efficiency. Their expertise not only in project management principles but also in understanding the unique functionalities and capabilities of Epic Systems makes them an essential figure in the transition towards more advanced and integrated healthcare IT solutions.

Epic Project Manager Job Duties

• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of Epic software implementation projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and budget.
• Facilitate communication between project stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, IT staff, and Epic representatives, to ensure clear understanding of project objectives and progress.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including project plans, risk assessments, and status reports, to ensure all stakeholders are informed and aligned.
• Coordinate the configuration and customization of Epic systems to meet the specific needs of the healthcare organization, including workflow design and system settings.
• Oversee the training of end-users, ensuring they are proficient in using the Epic system and understand the workflows and processes it supports.
• Manage the transition of the Epic system from the project phase to operational status, including post-implementation support and optimization activities.
• Conduct regular project meetings and reviews with the project team and stakeholders to assess progress, address issues, and make necessary adjustments to the project plan.
• Evaluate and recommend new Epic modules or enhancements to existing modules based on evolving healthcare practices, technological advancements, and organizational needs.

Epic Project Manager Salary & Outlook

Factors influencing an Epic Project Manager’s salary include industry experience, particularly in healthcare IT, proficiency in Epic software modules, project complexity, and size managed, and a proven track record of successful project delivery. Leadership skills and the ability to manage cross-functional teams are also crucial salary determinants.

• Median Annual Salary: $110,250 ($53/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $292,500 ($140.63/hour)

The employment of epic project managers is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade.

This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of Epic Systems software in healthcare for electronic medical records management, necessitating specialized project managers to oversee implementation, customization, and updates, ensuring efficient healthcare delivery and compliance with regulatory standards.

Epic Project Manager Job Requirements

Education: An Epic Project Manager typically holds a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree, with a significant number also possessing a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate. Preferred fields of study include Health Information Management, Computer Science, or Business Administration, emphasizing project management, healthcare systems, and information technology. Coursework in leadership, strategic planning, and healthcare policy further prepares candidates for the complexities of managing Epic system implementations within healthcare settings. Advanced education, such as a Master’s degree, can be advantageous for career progression.

Experience: Epic Project Managers typically come from a background rich in healthcare IT project management, having honed their skills through extensive on-the-job training and specialized training programs. Their experience often encompasses leading complex projects within clinical settings, demonstrating proficiency in Epic systems. These professionals have a track record of successful project delivery, showcasing their ability to navigate the intricacies of healthcare IT, manage cross-functional teams, and drive projects to completion. Continuous professional development through workshops and seminars is also a key aspect of their career progression.

Certifications & Licenses: Epic Project Managers often benefit from holding a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Additionally, certification in Epic software modules relevant to the project scope can be advantageous. No specific licenses are typically required for this role.

Epic Project Manager Skills

Agile Methodology: Enables Epic Project Managers to swiftly adapt to evolving project scopes and stakeholder needs, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. It promotes a collaborative environment that encourages ongoing feedback and iterative progress, which is beneficial for integrating Epic systems into various healthcare settings.

Risk Management: Involves identifying potential project challenges early and creating strategies to prevent them, allowing for the smooth implementation and adoption of Epic systems across healthcare organizations. By foreseeing obstacles and adjusting timelines and resources, Epic Project Managers can avoid delays and budget overruns.

Stakeholder Engagement: Focuses on building strong relationships with healthcare providers, IT staff, and executives to ensure the Epic system is integrated and optimized effectively. Through active listening and addressing the concerns and suggestions of these groups, an Epic Project Manager can lead projects to success and cultivate a positive working environment.

Scope Definition: Requires creating a detailed outline of project limits, deliverables, and goals to align team efforts. This skill is critical for managing resources and expectations, paving a clear path to project completion and achievement.

Resource Allocation: Involves strategically distributing tasks, budget, and personnel throughout different phases of Epic implementation projects to ensure they are completed on schedule and within budget. By understanding team members’ unique strengths and the specific needs of each project phase, an Epic Project Manager can enhance productivity and project results.

Change Management: Entails guiding healthcare processes and systems through transitions to optimized workflows with a balanced approach that combines technical knowledge with empathetic stakeholder engagement. This skill helps Epic Project Managers reduce disruption and resistance, promoting a culture of ongoing improvement and adaptation in changing healthcare environments.

Epic Project Manager Work Environment

An Epic Project Manager typically operates in a dynamic environment where the blend of technology and healthcare converges. Their workspace is often a mix of office settings and virtual platforms, allowing for a degree of flexibility in work hours. This role demands a high level of interaction with team members, stakeholders, and end-users, necessitating effective communication tools and collaboration software.

The nature of the job requires adherence to a professional dress code, though this can vary by the organization’s culture. The pace is fast, driven by project deadlines and the critical need for healthcare systems to function seamlessly. While the role may involve some travel, particularly for implementations or training, much of the work can be conducted remotely.

Health and safety protocols are rigorously followed, especially in on-site scenarios. The emotional environment is supportive yet demanding, with a strong emphasis on continuous learning and professional development. Work-life balance is valued, with organizations often providing resources to support this balance.

Advancement Prospects

An Epic Project Manager, specializing in Epic Systems software implementations, has a clear trajectory towards senior project management, consultancy, or strategic leadership within healthcare IT. Advancement often involves leading larger, more complex Epic implementations or transitioning into roles focused on optimizing healthcare workflows and patient care through technology.

To progress, gaining experience in diverse healthcare environments, such as hospitals and outpatient clinics, is crucial. This broad exposure enhances understanding of various clinical workflows, increasing one’s ability to manage complex projects effectively.

Additionally, specializing in emerging Epic modules or becoming an expert in specific areas like revenue cycle management or population health can open doors to niche consulting roles or senior leadership positions. Success in these advanced roles hinges on a deep understanding of healthcare operations and the ability to leverage Epic systems to solve industry-specific challenges.