Tennessee’s healthcare sector is a colossal economic force, particularly centered around Nashville, which is recognized as a national healthcare industry hub. Nashville’s healthcare ecosystem alone represents a staggering $68 billion industry annually and supports more than 333,000 jobs in the local economy. Globally, Nashville’s healthcare industry generates nearly $97 billion in revenue and almost 500,000 jobs.
Despite this immense economic impact and job creation, the Volunteer State faces significant nursing and physician shortages:
- Tennessee hospitals have identified nursing shortages as the number one issue currently affecting their operations.
- Tennessee is projected to face a shortage of almost 6,000 physicians by 2030, with over 1,100 of those being primary care doctors.
Health informatics offers crucial solutions by streamlining workflows, enhancing efficiency, and leveraging data for better resource allocation and improved patient outcomes:
- Regional Health Information Exchanges (HIEs) like the East Tennessee Health Information Network (etHIN) facilitate the electronic movement of health information among doctors’ offices, hospitals, labs, and other organizations.
- The Tennessee Hospital Association (THA) also operates the THA Health Information Network (THA HIN), which assists member hospitals with data reporting and provides secure access to patient information.
Recognizing the critical demand for skilled health informatics professionals to support this evolving landscape, Tennessee’s educational institutions are developing robust programs to train the next generation of healthcare technologists and leaders.
2025 Best Health Informatics Degree Programs in Tennessee
Looking for the best health informatics degree programs in Tennessee? You're in the right place. At healthinformaticsdegree.org, we've done the homework to help you find top-notch programs that fit your goals. Whether you're starting fresh or advancing your career, our list highlights schools that stand out for their quality, affordability, and student success. We know picking the right program is a big decision, so we've made it easier by focusing on what matters most to students. Curious about how we rank these programs? Check out our ranking methodology to see what goes into our picks.
Lipscomb University
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - lipscomb.edu
Master's - Master of Health Care Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Lipscomb University offers a Master of Health Care Informatics online, tailored for professionals eager to lead in the dynamic field of health informatics. This program uniquely integrates business analytics, IT, and health sciences, preparing students to master electronic health records and cutting-edge technologies such as blockchain. At $899 per credit hour, the 42-credit program can be finished in just 14 months, offering a fast track to advancement. Applicants need a bachelor's degree, a statistics prerequisite, and must submit a personal statement, resume, and two recommendation letters. Notably, the program does not require a GRE, making it accessible for health, IT, or business professionals aiming to leverage technology for improved patient care.
- Online format with synchronous and asynchronous options.
- 42 credit hours for $899 each.
- No GRE required for admission.
- Complete in as little as 14 months.
- Focus on electronic health records and blockchain.
- Requires bachelor's degree and statistics prerequisite.
- Personal statement and resume submission needed.
- Two recommendation letters required.
- Ideal for health, IT, or business professionals.
- Enhances skills in data analysis and information management.
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN - Private 4-year - vanderbilt.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Applied Clinical Informatics
Online Learning - Visit Website
Vanderbilt University offers an online Master of Science in Applied Clinical Informatics (MS-ACI) designed for healthcare professionals aiming to leverage informatics in solving workplace challenges. This 21-month, 36-credit program combines theory with 240 hours of hands-on experience, culminating in a capstone project implemented in the student's current workplace. Ideal for physicians, nurses, and health IT professionals, the program does not require a computer science background but suggests an introductory course for those new to the field. With a tuition of $65,663, it provides flexibility for working professionals and reports a 100% employment rate after graduation. No entrance exam is required for admission.
- 36 credits required
- 21 months to complete
- Online format
- $65,663 total tuition
- Fall enrollment
- 240 practical experience hours
- Capstone project required
- No computer science background needed
- Entry-level course recommended
- 100% employment rate
Middle Tennessee State University
Murfreesboro, TN - Public 4-Year - mtsu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Professional Science
Concentration: Health Care Informatics - Campus Based - Visit Website
Middle Tennessee State University's Master of Science in Professional Science with a concentration in Health Care Informatics is tailored for those looking to merge STEM expertise with business acumen in the healthcare sector. This program stands out for its unique blend of information systems, project management, and healthcare law courses, designed to meet the demands of the healthcare IT industry. It offers flexibility for working professionals and includes opportunities for graduate assistantships. A capstone internship provides hands-on experience, preparing graduates for lucrative roles in a rapidly expanding field. No entrance exam is explicitly required, making it accessible to a broad range of applicants.
- STEM-focused master's degree.
- Health Care Informatics concentration.
- Combines science with business skills.
- Courses in IT and healthcare law.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Competitive graduate assistantships available.
- Prepares for high-demand healthcare IT roles.
- Salaries above national average.
- Fast-growing tech job market.
- Capstone internship experience included.
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Memphis, TN - Public 4-Year - uthsc.edu
Master's - Master of Health Informatics and Information Management
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center's online Master of Health Informatics and Information Management program is CAHIIM-accredited, offering flexibility for students to study full-time or part-time. This 61-credit program requires a baccalaureate degree, prerequisite courses, and a minimum 2.75 GPA for admission. It emphasizes health information science, quality management, and technology systems, preparing graduates for leadership roles through clinical assignments and a capstone project. No entrance exam is specified, making it accessible for professionals looking to advance in health informatics.
- Accredited by CAHIIM.
- Online program flexibility.
- Full-time or part-time options.
- 61 credit hours total.
- Minimum GPA 2.75 required.
- Baccalaureate degree prerequisite.
- Hands-on clinical assignments.
- Capstone management affiliation.
- Prepares for leadership roles.
- Focus on real-world applications.
Doctorate - PhD in Health Informatics
Concentration: Health Outcomes and Policy - Campus Based - Visit Website
Offering a PhD in Health Informatics with a Health Outcomes and Policy concentration, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center provides an interdisciplinary, campus-based program. The 77-credit curriculum includes health data analytics and telemedicine, aimed at preparing students for research and leadership roles in health informatics. With an application deadline of March 15, this program is ideal for those interested in influencing health policy and outcomes. No specific entrance exam is mentioned, highlighting its focus on academic and professional preparation in the field.
- PhD in Health Informatics
- Concentration in Health Outcomes
- 77 total credit hours
- Campus-based program
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Focus on health data analytics
- Includes telemedicine courses
- Prepares for research and teaching
- Application deadline March 15
- Collaborative learning environment
2025 Most Affordable Health Informatics Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee offers promising opportunities for students seeking health informatics master's degrees without breaking the bank. Across major regions like Nashville and Memphis, aspiring healthcare technology professionals can find affordable programs that balance quality education with reasonable tuition costs. These programs prepare students for dynamic careers in healthcare data management, electronic health records, and innovative medical technology solutions. With Tennessee's growing healthcare sector, students can invest in their future by selecting programs that provide comprehensive training at accessible price points. The following table highlights master's-level health informatics programs that demonstrate exceptional value, helping students launch their careers with minimal financial strain.
School Name | Highlights | Annual Estimated Tuition & Fees |
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Vanderbilt University |
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Middle Tennessee State University |
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Lipscomb University |
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List of Tennessee Colleges With Health Informatics Degree Programs
Tennessee offers several colleges with health informatics degree programs, perfect for students aiming to blend healthcare with technology. These programs prepare graduates for careers in managing patient data and improving healthcare systems. Below is a table listing schools in Tennessee, their locations, program highlights, and links to more information. Explore your options and find the right fit for your education and career goals in health informatics.
Memphis, TN
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
- Master's - Master of Health Informatics and Information Management
Online Learning - Website
- Accredited by CAHIIM.
- Online program flexibility.
- Full-time or part-time options.
- 61 credit hours total.
- Minimum GPA 2.75 required.
- Baccalaureate degree prerequisite.
- Hands-on clinical assignments.
- Capstone management affiliation.
- Doctorate - PhD in Health Informatics
Concentration: Health Outcomes and Policy - Campus Based - Website
- PhD in Health Informatics
- Concentration in Health Outcomes
- 77 total credit hours
- Campus-based program
- Interdisciplinary curriculum
- Focus on health data analytics
- Includes telemedicine courses
- Prepares for research and teaching
Murfreesboro, TN
Middle Tennessee State University
- Master's - Master of Science in Professional Science
Concentration: Health Care Informatics - Campus Based - Website
- STEM-focused master's degree.
- Health Care Informatics concentration.
- Combines science with business skills.
- Courses in IT and healthcare law.
- Flexible for working professionals.
- Competitive graduate assistantships available.
- Prepares for high-demand healthcare IT roles.
- Salaries above national average.
Nashville, TN
Lipscomb University
- Master's - Master of Health Care Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- Online format with synchronous and asynchronous options.
- 42 credit hours for $899 each.
- No GRE required for admission.
- Complete in as little as 14 months.
- Focus on electronic health records and blockchain.
- Requires bachelor's degree and statistics prerequisite.
- Personal statement and resume submission needed.
- Two recommendation letters required.
Vanderbilt University
- Master's - Master of Science in Applied Clinical Informatics
Online Learning - Website
- 36 credits required
- 21 months to complete
- Online format
- $65,663 total tuition
- Fall enrollment
- 240 practical experience hours
- Capstone project required
- No computer science background needed
How to Choose the Best Program for You
Quick Take
Choose Vanderbilt University for premium clinical informatics excellence and guaranteed employment outcomes.
Vanderbilt’s 21-month MS-ACI program delivers 100% employment rate with 240 hands-on experience hours and workplace capstone projects. At $65,663 total tuition, this investment provides elite healthcare informatics training with direct application to current professional roles.
Select Lipscomb University for accelerated completion and blockchain technology focus.
Their 14-month online program at $899 per credit ($37,758 total) combines speed with cutting-edge curriculum including blockchain and electronic health records. No GRE required, ideal for IT, health, or business professionals seeking rapid career advancement.
Consider University of Tennessee Health Science Center for CAHIIM-accredited flexibility and research opportunities.
UTHSC offers both master’s (61 credits) and doctoral (77 credits) programs with full-time/part-time options. CAHIIM accreditation ensures industry recognition, while the PhD program provides research leadership preparation in health outcomes and policy.
Choose Middle Tennessee State University for STEM designation and budget-conscious education.
Their MS in Professional Science with Health Care Informatics concentration blends STEM expertise with business acumen. Graduate assistantships available, competitive salaries projected, and capstone internship provides practical experience.
Continue below for detailed analysis.
Program Levels and Educational Pathways
Master’s Level Specializations
Programs range from 36-61 credits with distinct professional focuses. Vanderbilt’s 36-credit Applied Clinical Informatics program emphasizes workplace application and hands-on experience. Lipscomb’s 42-credit program integrates business analytics with health sciences, while UTHSC’s 61-credit CAHIIM-accredited program provides comprehensive health information management foundation.
Accelerated Professional Tracks
Lipscomb University leads with 14-month completion for working professionals, while Vanderbilt offers 21-month structured progression combining theory with practical application. These accelerated options serve professionals needing rapid credential advancement without career interruption.
STEM-Designated Professional Science
Middle Tennessee State University’s MS in Professional Science with Health Care Informatics concentration provides STEM designation benefits while combining scientific rigor with business application. This unique approach serves professionals seeking technical credibility with management preparation.
Doctoral Research Preparation
UTHSC’s PhD in Health Informatics with Health Outcomes and Policy concentration represents the state’s only doctoral option. The 77-credit program prepares students for research leadership, academic careers, and policy influence in health informatics.
Flexible Study Options
Programs accommodate working professionals through online delivery (Lipscomb, Vanderbilt, UTHSC master’s) and part-time options (UTHSC). This flexibility enables career advancement without geographic relocation or career interruption.
Admission Requirements and Accessibility
Entrance Exam Elimination
All Tennessee programs have eliminated or do not specify entrance exam requirements. Vanderbilt, Lipscomb, MTSU, and UTHSC require no GRE/GMAT, removing barriers for working professionals and emphasizing professional experience over standardized testing.
GPA Standards and Academic Flexibility
Requirements are modest with UTHSC requiring 2.75 minimum GPA for master’s admission. Other programs don’t specify strict GPA requirements, suggesting holistic admission review considering professional experience and career goals.
Professional Background Diversity
Programs welcome diverse backgrounds. Vanderbilt targets physicians, nurses, and health IT professionals. Lipscomb serves health, IT, or business professionals. MTSU accommodates those seeking to merge STEM expertise with business skills. This diversity creates rich professional learning environments.
Prerequisite Transparency
Lipscomb requires statistics prerequisite and bachelor’s degree. Vanderbilt suggests introductory computer science for newcomers but doesn’t require technical background. UTHSC requires baccalaureate degree with specified prerequisite courses. Clear prerequisite communication enables proper preparation.
Application Process Simplification
Most programs require personal statements, resumes, and recommendation letters rather than complex portfolios. UTHSC PhD has March 15 deadline, while other programs offer rolling admission, providing application flexibility.
Cost Analysis
Budget-Conscious Excellence
Middle Tennessee State University’s public university pricing provides exceptional value for STEM-designated education with graduate assistantship opportunities. The program’s focus on above-average salaries in fast-growing tech markets supports strong ROI potential.
Mid-Range Professional Investment
Lipscomb University at $37,758 total cost ($899 per credit for 42 credits) provides excellent value for 14-month completion with blockchain and EHR specialization. This mid-range investment offers rapid credential advancement with cutting-edge curriculum.
Premium Clinical Excellence
Vanderbilt University’s $65,663 investment provides premium clinical informatics training with guaranteed employment outcomes. The 100% employment rate and 240 hands-on experience hours justify premium pricing for elite healthcare informatics preparation.
Research and Doctoral Investment
UTHSC’s doctoral program represents significant investment for research career preparation. While specific costs aren’t detailed, the program’s focus on health outcomes and policy provides preparation for academic and research leadership roles.
Financial Aid and Support
MTSU offers competitive graduate assistantships that can significantly reduce program costs while providing research or teaching experience. These opportunities enhance both financial accessibility and professional development.
Program Formats and Scheduling Flexibility
Comprehensive Online Excellence
Vanderbilt, Lipscomb, and UTHSC master’s programs offer complete online education with synchronous and asynchronous options. These programs serve working professionals nationwide while maintaining Tennessee-based healthcare industry connections.
Workplace Integration Models
Vanderbilt’s program uniquely requires capstone projects implemented in students’ current workplaces, providing immediate application of learning. This model benefits both students and their employers through real-world problem-solving.
Accelerated Professional Completion
Lipscomb’s 14-month completion and Vanderbilt’s 21-month structure provide rapid credential advancement. These options serve professionals needing quick career progression without extended time away from advancement opportunities.
Flexible Study Progression
UTHSC offers both full-time and part-time options for master’s students, accommodating diverse professional schedules. This flexibility enables career advancement without requiring career interruption or geographic relocation.
Campus-Based Research Preparation
UTHSC’s PhD program and MTSU’s concentration provide campus-based learning for students seeking traditional academic experience with faculty mentorship and research collaboration opportunities.
Specialization Areas and Career Focus
Applied Clinical Informatics Excellence
Vanderbilt University specializes in applied clinical informatics for healthcare professionals, emphasizing workplace problem-solving and practical implementation. The 240-hour hands-on experience requirement ensures graduates can immediately contribute to clinical informatics initiatives.
Blockchain and Emerging Technologies
Lipscomb University leads in emerging technology integration, specifically blockchain applications in healthcare. This forward-thinking approach prepares graduates for next-generation healthcare technology implementation and innovation.
Business Analytics and Information Management
Lipscomb’s program uniquely integrates business analytics with health sciences, preparing graduates for roles requiring both technical skills and business acumen. This combination serves the growing need for healthcare professionals who understand both technology and business strategy.
Health Outcomes and Policy Research
UTHSC’s PhD concentration in Health Outcomes and Policy prepares students for research leadership in evaluating healthcare technology effectiveness and informing policy decisions. This specialization serves the critical need for evidence-based healthcare technology implementation.
Professional Science and STEM Integration
MTSU’s approach combines STEM expertise with business skills, serving professionals seeking technical credibility with management preparation. This unique positioning prepares graduates for leadership roles in healthcare technology organizations.
Health Information Management Foundation
UTHSC’s CAHIIM-accredited master’s program provides comprehensive health information management foundation, ensuring graduates meet industry standards for health information professionals and qualify for professional certification pathways.
Hands-On Experience and Industry Connections
Workplace Capstone Integration
Vanderbilt’s requirement for workplace-implemented capstone projects provides immediate value to employers while ensuring students apply learning to real challenges. This model creates strong industry connections and potential employment pathways.
Clinical Assignment Requirements
UTHSC incorporates hands-on clinical assignments and capstone management affiliations, providing direct healthcare environment experience. These requirements bridge academic learning with clinical practice realities.
Internship and Practical Experience
MTSU includes capstone internship experiences that provide industry exposure and networking opportunities. These experiences often lead to employment offers and professional relationship development.
Healthcare Technology Focus
Programs emphasize current healthcare technologies including electronic health records (Lipscomb), telemedicine (UTHSC), and information systems (MTSU). This focus ensures graduates understand current industry tools and implementation challenges.
Research and Data Analytics Application
UTHSC’s PhD program includes health data analytics focus, preparing students for research roles in healthcare technology evaluation and policy development. These skills serve the growing need for evidence-based healthcare technology assessment.
Your Health Informatics Degree and Career Opportunities
Your degree will open up diverse opportunities in the state’s evolving healthcare landscape. Below, we provide a brief analysis of current job openings in the market.
Key Findings:
- Salary ranges from $43.92/hour (data advisor) to $250,000 annually (research physician)
- Geographic concentration in Nashville with significant presence in Memphis, Knoxville, and regional centers
- Education requirements span from Allied Health licenses to MD/PhD degrees
- Major employers include HCA Healthcare, Vanderbilt institutions, St. Jude, and regional health systems
Notable aspects of Tennessee’s market include strong emphasis on multi-platform EHR expertise (Meditech, Epic, Cerner), world-class academic medical center opportunities at Vanderbilt and St. Jude, comprehensive nursing informatics leadership roles, and unique physician consulting opportunities with Epic requiring relocation. The state shows particular demand for clinical-technology integration skills and offers excellent benefits packages across major health systems.
Multi-Platform EHR Systems & Implementation
Enterprise EHR Optimization
Primary Employers: HCA Healthcare (Nashville), TriStar Centennial Medical Center (Lebanon), Community Health Systems (Franklin)
- HCA Healthcare: Clinical Informaticist managing Meditech Expanse, Epic, and Cerner platforms (salary not disclosed, hybrid 3 days/week MWF)
- TriStar Centennial: Senior Director of Clinical Informatics leading enterprise-wide standardization (salary not disclosed, incentive eligible)
- Community Health Systems: Sr. Clinical Informatics Specialist focusing on emergency service lines (salary not disclosed, full-time)
Specialized EHR Applications
Primary Employers: Covenant Health (Knoxville), Ballad Health Corporate (Kingsport), West Tennessee Healthcare (Jackson)
- Covenant Health: Ambulatory Informatics Analyst supporting Women’s Health practices (salary not disclosed, on-call required)
- Ballad Health: Clinical Informatics Coordinator for Vocera Team with workflow optimization (salary not disclosed, 8a-5p)
- West Tennessee Healthcare: Clinical Informatics Specialist with RN license requirement (salary not disclosed, day shift)
Nursing Informatics & Clinical Leadership
Advanced Practice Nursing Informatics
Primary Employers: HCA Healthcare (Lebanon), Caris (Knoxville)
- HCA Healthcare: Consulting Informatics Nurse Specialist with enterprise leadership role (Master’s required, up to 50% travel)
- Caris: Nursing Informatics Analyst with Homecare Homebase experience ($77,000-$105,000 annually, bonus eligible)
Clinical System Integration
Primary Employers: Southern Tennessee Regional Health System (Winchester)
- Clinical Informatics Analyst: Hospital information system testing and building (salary not disclosed, LPN/RN or Associates in Health Informatics preferred)
Academic & Research Positions
Higher Education Leadership
Primary Employers: Middle Tennessee State University (Murfreesboro)
- Health Care Informatics Program Coordinator-Track Faculty: Teaching graduate courses in informatics applications (salary commensurate with experience, one-year position)
Research & Clinical Innovation
Primary Employers: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine (Nashville), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (Memphis), Vanderbilt Health (Nashville)
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute: Informatics Clinician-Scientist combining ophthalmology with informatics ($150,000-$250,000 annually)
- St. Jude: Faculty Position in Clinical Informatics Research with pediatric focus (salary not disclosed, MD/PhD required)
- Vanderbilt Health: Associate Data Scientist in Biomedical Informatics ($90,000 annually, 7 years experience required)
Data Analytics & Healthcare Intelligence
Healthcare Data Management
Primary Employers: Intermountain Health (Nashville)
- Healthcare Data Advisor: Developing data solutions for patient safety and quality management ($43.92-$69.16/hour, full-time)
Epic Systems Consulting
Primary Employers: Epic (Knoxville)
- Physician – Applied Informatics: Physician consulting role requiring relocation to Madison, WI (merit-based compensation plus stock grants, travel required)
Education Requirements by Position Level
Entry-Level Clinical Positions
West Tennessee Healthcare – Nursing degree or allied healthcare profession with current Tennessee licensure required Southern Tennessee Regional Health System – LPN/RN or Associates in Health Informatics/IT preferred
Mid-Level Specialist Roles
HCA Healthcare – Bachelor’s degree with 3+ years clinical experience required Covenant Health – Associates in computer-related field with 5+ years Information Systems experience Community Health Systems – Bachelor’s in Nursing/Healthcare Informatics with 3-5 years informatics experience
Advanced Clinical Leadership
HCA Healthcare Lebanon – Master’s in Informatics required plus 5+ years clinical informatics and 7+ years clinical practice TriStar Centennial – Bachelor’s required with RN licensure strongly preferred, 3+ years acute care experience
Academic and Research Positions
Middle Tennessee State University – Terminal degree in engineering/business/informatics or Master’s with 2 years experience Vanderbilt Eye Institute – Medical degree with ophthalmology board certification, informatics training desirable St. Jude – MD/PhD required, clinical informatics fellowship strongly preferred Vanderbilt Health – Master’s degree with 7 years relevant experience for data scientist roles
Salary Ranges by Position Type
Clinical Support and Analyst Roles
- Healthcare Data Advisor (Intermountain Health): $43.92-$69.16/hour
- Nursing Informatics Analyst (Caris): $77,000-$105,000 annually
Academic and Research Positions
- Associate Data Scientist (Vanderbilt Health): $90,000 annually
- Informatics Clinician-Scientist (Vanderbilt Eye Institute): $150,000-$250,000 annually
- Faculty Position (Middle Tennessee State): Commensurate with experience
Leadership and Enterprise Roles
- Multiple senior positions: Salary not disclosed but include comprehensive HCA Healthcare benefits packages
- Epic Physician Consultant: Merit-based compensation plus stock grants and relocation assistance
Cross-Disciplinary Opportunities
Clinical-Technology Integration
HCA Healthcare combines nursing practice with enterprise technology management across multiple EHR platforms. Covenant Health integrates clinical expertise with ambulatory care informatics for specialized practices.
Academic-Clinical Research Interface
Vanderbilt institutions offer unique opportunities to combine clinical practice with informatics research, particularly in ophthalmology and biomedical data science. St. Jude provides pediatric-focused clinical informatics research opportunities.
Healthcare-Education Convergence
Middle Tennessee State University bridges academic instruction with industry experience in health informatics program development and student mentorship.
Quality-Analytics Integration
Intermountain Health combines healthcare data analytics with patient safety, quality management, and patient experience improvement initiatives.
Required Technical Skills
EHR Platform Expertise
Multiple employers require proficiency across Meditech Expanse, Epic, and Cerner systems. Epic specifically seeks physicians with extensive Epic software experience for consulting roles.
Programming and Analytics
Intermountain Health requires SQL, Tableau, and Databricks proficiency. Vanderbilt Health emphasizes statistical software including R, Python, SAS, and SPSS.
Specialized Clinical Applications
Covenant Health requires ambulatory EMR experience with Women’s Health focus. Caris specifically requires Homecare Homebase experience.
Professional Certifications and Licensures
Clinical Licensure Requirements
Multiple employers require active RN licensure in Tennessee or compact states. West Tennessee Healthcare accepts various allied health licenses (RT, EMT, Paramedic, Lab Tech).
Advanced Certifications
TriStar Centennial prefers ANCC Nursing Informatics Certification. Community Health Systems prefers Clinical Informatics certifications (ANCC, CAHIMS/CPHIMS).
Medical Specialization
Vanderbilt Eye Institute requires American Board of Ophthalmology certification. Epic requires medical degree with clinical practice experience.
Geographic Distribution and Work Arrangements
Nashville area dominates with HCA Healthcare, Vanderbilt institutions, and Intermountain Health offering major opportunities. Memphis hosts St. Jude’s research positions. Regional centers including Knoxville, Jackson, and Murfreesboro provide specialized clinical and academic opportunities. Hybrid work increasingly common, with HCA Healthcare offering 3-day office schedules and some positions requiring travel or relocation.
Professional Development and Benefits
Comprehensive Benefits
HCA Healthcare offers extensive benefits including 401(k) matching, stock purchase plans, and education assistance. Caris provides tuition reimbursement and flexible scheduling.
Academic Opportunities
Multiple institutions offer continuing education support, research collaboration opportunities, and professional development programs. St. Jude emphasizes mentorship and professional organization participation.
Tennessee’s health informatics market combines major healthcare systems with world-renowned academic medical centers and research institutions, offering opportunities from direct patient care technology support to cutting-edge clinical research, with particular strength in multi-platform EHR expertise, nursing informatics leadership, and biomedical data science innovation.