How To Become an Epic Analyst: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as an epic analyst, including education, skills, salary and more.
Epic analysts are responsible for configuring, testing and training users on the Epic electronic medical record system. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including clinicians, IT staff and Epic application coordinators. If you are interested in becoming an Epic analyst, it is helpful to understand the job responsibilities, required skills and steps to take to pursue this career. In this article, we discuss what an Epic analyst does, the skills you need and how to become one.
What Does an Epic Analyst Do?
An Epic analyst is responsible for the implementation and maintenance of electronic medical records (EMR) systems within a healthcare organization. They work with staff to ensure that the system is being used correctly and efficiently to meet the needs of the organization.
The duties of an Epic analyst include:
- Conducting training sessions for new and existing users of the EMR system
- Assisting users with questions or problems they are having with the system
- Creating and maintaining user manuals and other documentation
- Monitoring system usage to identify potential issues or areas of improvement
- Working with vendors to resolve technical issues
- Coordinating with other departments to ensure smooth operation of the EMR system
- Developing reports to track system performance
- Participating in system upgrade and expansion projects
Epic Analyst Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for an Epic Analyst is $108,150. This figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the analyst.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for Epic Analysts to increase at a faster than average rate over the next decade. The demand for these professionals will likely grow as more organizations adopt electronic health records (EHRs). Epic Analysts play a vital role in helping these organizations implement and optimize their EHR systems.
How to Become an Epic Analyst
Here are several steps you should take to become an epic analyst.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or a related field
Epic analysts need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or a related field. Many Epic analysts have a master’s degree, but this is not required for the position. Common undergraduate majors include computer science, information systems and health informatics.
Undergraduate courses should focus on coding, database management, software development and networking. Coursework may also include math and statistics to help you better understand data analysis. You will likely take elective courses in your major that teach you about specific applications of computing in healthcare.
2. Gain experience with the Epic electronic health record (EHR) system
Epic is a complex system that requires users to learn how to navigate its features and functions. To become an Epic analyst, it’s recommended that you work in a healthcare setting where the EHR system is used. This will allow you to gain hands-on experience with the software and develop your skills.
You can also consider working as a medical coder or health information technician (HIT) to learn more about the EHR system. These roles involve using Epic and other systems to code patient data and manage records. Working in these positions can help you understand how to use Epic to improve workflow and patient care.
3. Obtain certification from Epic Systems Corporation
Epic Systems Corporation offers several certifications for healthcare professionals who use its EHR system. The most basic certification is the Coding and Reimbursement Specialist credential, which Epic recommends individuals have before they start working in a hospital or clinic setting.
To earn this certification, candidates must pass an exam on coding and reimbursement principles. They also need to complete a course on coding fundamentals from Epic.
4. Develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Epic analysts must be able to analyze data and identify trends that can improve patient care. They must also have strong problem-solving skills to address issues with the EHR system or other computer programs used in healthcare facilities. Candidates for this position should take courses in statistics, calculus and programming to develop these skills.
Employers may look for candidates who have experience working in a healthcare setting. This experience can help you understand how the EHR system affects patient care. You can also gain valuable analytical skills by analyzing data from surveys, focus groups and interviews.
5. Understand how to use data to improve patient care
Epic analysts use data to help healthcare organizations improve patient care. For example, an analyst may review a hospital’s readmission rates and suggest ways for the facility to reduce them. Analysts also work with other departments such as human resources or finance to identify areas where their organization can make improvements.
6. Stay up to date on changes in the healthcare industry
Healthcare is a fast-paced industry that is constantly evolving. New laws, regulations and policies are introduced frequently, which can affect how healthcare providers operate. It’s important for Epic analysts to stay up to date on these changes so they can continue providing the best care possible.
For example, in 2015, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced new requirements for hospitals participating in Medicare. The CMS requires all hospitals to have an electronic health record system that meets certain criteria by October 2018. This change affects how hospitals provide care to patients and how Epic analysts support them.
7. Join professional organizations such as the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS)
The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) is a professional organization that provides education, networking opportunities and resources to healthcare IT professionals. Through the society, you can gain access to Epic training courses and certifications. Membership in HIMSS also allows you to attend conferences where you can network with other industry professionals.
