The healthcare industry is undergoing rapid digital transformation, making healthcare IT contract work an exciting and lucrative opportunity for IT professionals. From implementing electronic health records (EHRs) to optimizing cybersecurity and ensuring compliance with HIPAA regulations, healthcare organizations need skilled IT talent to drive these initiatives. If you're considering breaking into healthcare IT contract work, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started and succeed.
Before jumping into healthcare IT contract work, it's essential to understand the industry's unique challenges and opportunities. Unlike other sectors, healthcare IT is heavily regulated, compliance-driven, and deeply integrated with patient care. Key areas of focus include:
Electronic Health Records (EHR) Systems: Platforms like Epic, Cerner, and Meditech dominate the market, and experience with these systems is highly valued.
Health Information Exchange (HIE): Facilitating secure sharing of patient data between providers.
Cybersecurity & Data Protection: Ensuring compliance with HIPAA and safeguarding patient data from breaches.
Telehealth & Remote Patient Monitoring: Supporting the expansion of virtual care.
AI & Data Analytics in Healthcare: Driving insights for better patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
Gaining familiarity with these areas will set you apart and help you align your skills with industry demands.
To thrive in healthcare IT contract work, you need a combination of technical skills, industry knowledge, and soft skills. Here’s what you should focus on:
EHR/EMR System Experience: Understanding workflows, integrations, and troubleshooting.
Networking & Security: Healthcare organizations require robust cybersecurity and compliance measures.
Cloud Computing: Platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are widely used.
Database Management: SQL and NoSQL databases are critical for handling large healthcare data sets.
Programming & Scripting: Python, Java, and SQL are common in healthcare analytics and IT automation.
Regulatory Compliance: HIPAA, HITECH Act, and FDA regulations impact IT systems and data handling.
Interoperability Standards: FHIR and HL7 are essential for integrating systems within healthcare networks.
Understanding Clinical Workflows: How technology impacts doctors, nurses, and administrators.
Communication & Collaboration: Healthcare IT professionals must work closely with non-technical stakeholders.
Problem-Solving: Quick thinking is essential when dealing with urgent system issues in a hospital setting.
Adaptability: The healthcare sector is constantly evolving, and IT contractors must stay ahead of trends.
Certifications can make a significant difference in landing healthcare IT contract work. Consider obtaining:
Certified Healthcare CIO (CHCIO) – For leadership and strategic roles.
Epic or Cerner Certifications – Required for working on EHR implementations.
CompTIA Security+ or CISSP – If you specialize in cybersecurity.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – For cloud infrastructure roles.
Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) – Demonstrates expertise in healthcare IT.
Freelance or Volunteer Work: Offer your IT skills to clinics, local hospitals, or nonprofits.
Transitioning from Another Industry: If you have IT experience in finance, government, or corporate settings, highlight transferable skills like security, compliance, and data management.
Internships & Entry-Level Contracts: Consider short-term healthcare IT projects to build credibility.
Network with Industry Professionals: Join LinkedIn groups, attend healthcare IT conferences, and connect with recruiters specializing in healthcare tech roles.
Unlike full-time employment, contract work requires you to find your own opportunities. Here’s how:
Leverage Industry-Specific Platforms: Healthcare IT job boards and talent platforms like Revuud connect IT professionals with high-quality contract opportunities.
Join Professional Organizations: HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society) and AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) are great for networking.
Cold Outreach to Healthcare Providers: Identify hospitals and clinics undergoing IT transformations and pitch your services.
Once you land your first contract, focus on delivering exceptional value. Follow these best practices to establish a solid reputation:
Understand Project Scope & Deliverables: Clarify expectations from day one to avoid misunderstandings.
Stay Updated on Compliance & Security Requirements: Healthcare regulations change frequently, and compliance is non-negotiable.
Be Professional & Reliable: Hospitals and clinics operate in high-pressure environments—dependability is key.
Document Your Work & Processes: Clear documentation helps ensure continuity after your contract ends.
Seek Testimonials & Referrals: Positive feedback from past projects can lead to future opportunities.
Breaking into healthcare IT contract work can feel overwhelming, but having a clear roadmap makes it easier. Below is a practical checklist you can use to track your progress and ensure you're covering all the essential steps to establish yourself in this field.
Gain knowledge of key healthcare IT areas (EHRs, cybersecurity, interoperability).
Develop technical skills relevant to healthcare IT (cloud computing, networking, scripting).
Understand compliance requirements (HIPAA, HITECH, FHIR, HL7).
Obtain relevant certifications (Epic, Cerner, CISSP, AWS, CPHIMS).
Gain experience through internships, freelance work, or volunteering.
Build a professional network within the healthcare IT industry.
Use platforms like Revuud to find high-quality contract opportunities.
Deliver exceptional work, maintain professionalism, and document projects thoroughly.
Seek testimonials and referrals to secure future contracts.
Breaking into healthcare IT contract work is easier with the right platform and network. That’s where Revuud comes in.
Revuud isn’t just another staffing agency—it’s a talent management platform built for IT contractors like you. Here’s why you should join:
Direct Access to High-Quality Contracts – No middlemen, just direct connections with healthcare organizations hiring IT talent. “Revuud is the optimal location for finding a great fit between clients and consultants. It's a win-win. Their platform allows both parties to interact with each other on a professional basis so each can discuss in detail their expectations and objectives. I've never experienced anything else like it.” – Jeff Souers
Transparency & Competitive Pay – Know exactly what opportunities are available and at what rate.
Build Your Bench of Work – Create a profile, showcase your expertise, and get matched with projects that fit your skillset.
Seamless Contract Management – From negotiations to payments, we streamline the entire process. “For me, the Revuud platform has simplified everything in terms of managing engagements. Everything is available right there in your Revuud profile; from time tracking, any action items needed, potential opportunities, reviewing and accepting engagements, even adding a video introduction for your profile. The platform streamlines the most important thing; taking care of your client.” – John Lawson
Exclusive Opportunities in Healthcare IT – Get access to roles in top healthcare systems, EHR implementations, and IT infrastructure projects.
If you’re looking to enter or advance in healthcare IT contract work, there’s never been a better time. The demand for skilled IT professionals in healthcare is growing, and the right approach can set you on a path to long-term success. Join Revuud today and start building your career in healthcare IT.