In a recent publication titled "Digital health care and data work: Who are the data professionals?", Claus Bossen and Pernille Bertelsen shed light on the intricate world of data professionals operating within the healthcare sector. The paper, born out of their investigative study, delves into the roles, identities, and competences of individuals who work with data in the healthcare domain.

The authors highlight the significance of this research in light of the ongoing digital transformation of healthcare, as the industry increasingly leans towards data-driven approaches. The study aims to address the knowledge gaps regarding the people engaged in data-related activities within healthcare, despite the growing importance of such roles.

Utilizing an explorative mixed-method approach, Bossen and Bertelsen focused on a prominent national healthcare data organization, the Danish Healthcare Authority, located in Copenhagen, Denmark. They combined an open survey method targeting over 300 individuals and conducted 11 in-depth semi-structured interviews. The resulting findings provide valuable insights into the educational backgrounds, work identities, tasks, competences, and knowledge acquisition of data professionals in the healthcare sector.

The study revealed a tapestry of skills and attributes that shape the landscape of data work in healthcare. Although recurring themes included healthcare knowledge, data analytical skills, and information technology proficiency, the research also uncovered considerable variations in competences both within and beyond these themes. Notably, the majority of the competences were acquired through hands-on experience rather than formal education.

Among the most prominent identities identified within the healthcare data workforce was that of a "data analyst." However, the research noted the absence of a stable and standardized data worker identity, indicating the diverse career paths that lead individuals into these roles.

The findings carry implications for both educational policy makers and healthcare managers. The study underscores the need for tailored educational programs that cater to the evolving requirements of healthcare data work, acknowledging the on-the-job learning that plays a pivotal role in shaping the competences of data professionals. Additionally, healthcare managers are encouraged to acknowledge the diversity in career paths and foster an environment that allows these professionals to thrive.

The work of Bossen and Bertelsen offers a comprehensive glimpse into the lives and competences of data professionals in healthcare, providing a foundation for informed decision-making and policy formulation. For more details about the article, we encourage you to read further.