Epic positions, only for those with medical background?

[bwight]

Hello all, I've been working in an IT Desktop support type of capacity in the healthcare industry for the past couple years. I'm still a contractor for now, but I'm well liked by those at the organization I'm working with. I've worked in IT for about 7 years, have experience ranging from network, to server, to desktop support.

I'm curious if anybody has any information to share with somebody interested in pursuing Epic certifications for a related career in the medical industry that is coming from an IT background with absolutely no nursing experience whatsoever.

Is that completely out of the ordinary? Has it been done? Any advice to offer?

I was given a crash 3-4 day course in Epic to support a new deployment of the system to a hospital. After four 66hour weeks supporting doctors, nurses, etc. I can't say I'm an expert, but was helpful in their acceptance of the system. That's almost the gist of my experience supporting Epic, however.

Edit: I just signed up and posted this comment and am just now browsing down to check other posts and will search out some info shortly.

[guest2210]

I have been doing Epic support and teaching for 2 years. Most of the people I have worked with have been in the medical field in some capacity-RN, LPN, EMT, Radiology, even nursing sudents.

I recently did a travelling consulting gig where only 4 of 19 consultants were nurses. The others came from a variety of backgrounds. There are so many consulting firms literally popping up all over the country. I have been employed by at least 4 different ones and have been approached by another dozen or so.

More and more employers are requiring that support personnel have a medical background. That is mostly to understand the staffs workflow issues, although our primary responsibility is to provide support in the functionality of the particular Epic module going live.

I emailed Epic in Madison, WI about a year ago inquiring as to whether a person can "self-pay" for certification. The answer was no. A person has to be sponsored by a medical facility or an Epic partner in order to get certified. I am still seeking this opportunity and will not stop until I find it!! LOL

It's not easy, especially when so many consulting firms are looking for Epic certified people for their clients.

So, the answer to your question is,no. There are Epic positions for non medical people. You just have to be diligent in networking until you find what you are looking for . I hope this helps.