The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
IT Helpdesk Technician / Support Analyst
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Troubleshooting IT issues, understanding system dependencies, basic networking concepts, and customer service skills.
You're ready to move on when
- You've consistently resolved Level 1/2 IT issues efficiently.
- You've shown a keen interest in the data aspects of the systems you support.
- You've started to learn basic SQL or scripting in your current role.
- 2
Data Entry Clerk / Clinical Administrator
1-3 yearsSkills to master
- Meticulous data entry, understanding of clinical workflows, basic use of EHR systems, and an appreciation for data quality.
You're ready to move on when
- You've demonstrated exceptional accuracy in data entry and validation.
- You've proactively identified and flagged data discrepancies.
- You've shown an eagerness to understand how the data you enter is used.
- 3
Recent Graduate (Health Informatics, Computer Science, or similar)
0-1 year (direct entry)Skills to master
- Applying theoretical knowledge to practical healthcare scenarios, understanding organisational context, and developing professional communication skills.
You're ready to move on when
- You've completed relevant projects during your studies that involved data analysis or system design.
- You can articulate your understanding of health informatics principles.
- You demonstrate strong problem-solving and analytical capabilities.


