One of my goals is to find a career that allows me to utilize both my current medical knowledge and my new found development knowledge. While searching for news and information in this area I ran across this article explaining developer roles that are in pretty high demand in healthcare. Read the article for yourself and/or keep reading to see my perspective on it.
8 Developer Roles That Are in High Demand in Healthcare
By: Ben Dickson
Data scientists and machine learning engineers
Data scientists create algorithms that assist healthcare workers be more efficient. By analyzing data collected we have the ability to make predictions and therefor improve patient care significantly.
Blockchain developers
Blockchain (individual records linked together in a chain – techterms.com). This is used in tracing drugs, tracking clinical trials and managing patient data. With IBM leading the field, I’m sure there will be an increased need in this area.
Robotics engineers
Robots are no longer a thing of the future. They are used in assisting with surgeries, in patients during surgeries and even to clean, therefore reducing time and energy spent by the medical staff.
Mechatronics engineers
Mechatronics is mechanics, electronics, and computer science all rolled into one. This can be found inside a patient with a prosthetic arm, or in the operating room assisting with surgery. It includes such designs as the FlexArm, that allows multiple imaging without having to move the patient.
Virtual reality developers
VR has began to play an important role in healthcare by providing training and education from patients all the way to surgeons. By utilizing VR, there is a decreased risk of infection, time and resources. Virtual reality is no longer just for entertainment.
Augmented reality developers
This provides information quickly and efficiently, which could ultimately help save a life. There are even special glasses that allow surgeons to view needed information directly in front of them, even in the middle of surgery.
Mobile and wearables app developer
Apps are almost a necessity considering how many smartphones are in existence now. Patients can view results, pay bills, make appointments and even update their information immediately. Doctors are able to communicate directly more effectively with their patients. With the increase of smartwatches and fitness trackers, people are becoming more aware of their health. I expect it won’t be long before insurance companies offer incentives to those who are willing to upload their information, proving they are making healthier choices.
Software developers
Software is a part of our daily lives and is just about everywhere we look, especially hospitals. These software’s need to be updated frequently. Not to mention the fact that new and exciting opportunities are appearing daily. This will always be an area that needs continual assistance.
After reading this post, I feel like there is definitely a place for me the healthcare developer world. There are several options already to choose from and more arriving daily.