Data Analyst

About the role

At Houston Methodist Academic Institute, the Data Analyst position is responsible for providing analytical support for data generated by the department. This role assists in creating, designing, and implementing processes to ensure accurate data collection and input, and maintains the department database while providing ongoing training to end users.

Responsibilities

• Gather, analyze, and report statistical information and patient outcomes to internal and external customers, which may include statistical power and sample size determination, inferential hypothesis testing, algorithm development and numerical methods, data mining, and knowledge discovery in databases.
• Provide monthly departmental reports and ensure timely completion of regulatory reporting.
• Make recommendations for implementing technology and processes to support departmental goals, with emphasis on regulatory compliance.
• Complete or assign other data requests as needed.

Essential Functions

People

• Communicate results of queries in database systems and upgrades regarding electronic protocol management systems to coworkers, staff, and management.
• Work directly with physicians, clinical staff, and management on customized data queries and other requests for operational and research needs.
• Foster a teamwork approach in all interactions with peers and team members.
• Anticipate needs of other team members and proactively offer assistance.
• Contribute to improving department scores for turnover, retention, and employee engagement.

Service

• Provide troubleshooting logic in relation to technical support.
• Provide and/or supervise gathering, entering, and auditing of data in the database.
• Assist with the design and implementation of processes to ensure accurate data collection and input.
• Perform statistical analysis interpretation by preparing reports (monthly, quarterly, and/or as needed) on productivity, quality activities, trends, and other clinical or business metrics relevant to the department.

Quality/Safety

• Conduct routine data processing and implementation of quality control methods.
• Develop standard operating procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all HIPAA/confidentiality regulations.
• Participate in the performance improvement program for the department in conjunction with management.

Finance

• Conduct statistical power and sample size determination, inferential hypothesis testing, data mining, and knowledge discovery in databases as appropriate.
• Responsible for all aspects of clinical data analyses for multiple studies.
• Program and develop algorithms for numerical methods and develop workflow and data pipelines as needed for projects.

Growth/Innovation

• Collaborate with Technology regarding software system proposals, purchases, installations, upgrades, enhancements, and modifications.
• Identify and assume responsibility for own learning needs, consult with team experts, and seek continuing education opportunities to meet those needs.
• Complete and update the individual development plan (IDP) on an ongoing basis.
• Ensure career discussions occur with appropriate management.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, math, physics, or a related field.

Experience

• Three years in data analysis, preferably in a healthcare or research setting.

Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through ongoing skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations.
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security.
• Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members, and coworkers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles.
• Strong background in computer programming.
• Proficiency in Excel, Access, and shell scripting, and the ability to utilize multiple software applications.
• Familiarity with common imaging tools and database experience and/or experience with neuroinformatic software is beneficial.
• Previous database project management experience is preferred.
• Experience in relational database design.
• Knowledge of medical practices and terminology is strongly preferred.
• Excellent analytical and statistical skills.
• Experience with report writers is preferred.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to interact well with medical staff.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently.

Supplemental Requirements

• Work Attire: Business professional.
• On-Call: No.
• Travel: May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area.