What Does a Clinical Systems Analyst Do?

A clinical systems analyst plays an important role in setting up and maintaining computer networks within healthcare facilities. To be effective in this career, a person should have extensive computer knowledge, an analytical mind and excellent problem solving skills. Generally speaking, a minimum of a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field is required to become a clinical systems analyst. Some of the primary responsibilities of this position include identifying computer network needs, installing and maintaining networks, training personnel and troubleshooting computer issues.

Prior to setting up a computer network, it's often necessary for a clinical systems analyst to identify the needs of each healthcare facility. For example, a smaller facility with limited numbers of patients and staff may only need a small network of computers. On the other hand, a large facility may require an extensive network of computers to operate efficiently. It's the job of a clinical systems analyst to determine the specific needs of each facility and design a computer network that meets those needs.

After completing this assessment, he will usually build and configure the network. This might involve setting up computers and other hardware in specific places such as examination rooms or in different departments of a healthcare facility. Typically, a clinical systems analyst will install necessary software and set everything up so that it's functioning correctly.

Perhaps the most important aspect of this job is maintaining computer networks. For example, a clinical systems analyst might need to perform upgrades when newer software comes out or alter a program's interface to optimize usability. Besides this, an individual in this role may make other improvements from time to time in order to increase the overall efficiency of the network. In addition, he will often be responsible for maintaining system security, working to prevent unauthorized users from accessing the system.

In many cases, a clinical systems analyst is also in charge of training personnel. Since he is the expert, it's sometimes his responsibility to familiarize doctors, nurses and other staff members on how to access and use programs and utilities on the network. For this practice, he may hold training seminars for new employees or hold workshops when changes are made.

Additionally, it's up to a clinical systems analyst to troubleshoot any issues as they arise. For example, if a network is infiltrated by a virus, he would need to successfully remove the virus and restore the network to normal functioning. This aspect of the job requires someone who can quickly and efficiently solve a variety of problems and handle stressful situations.