How Health Informatics Transforms the Insurance Industry

As healthcare and insurance become increasingly intertwined, health informatics professionals are playing a crucial role in shaping the future of both industries. Health informatics — the intersection of healthcare, information science and technology — helps insurers and providers collaborate more effectively to improve patient outcomes while managing costs. 

Driven by legislation like the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurance companies and healthcare providers are working together more closely than ever. Health informatics is at the center of this collaboration, providing the data-driven insights needed to navigate an increasingly complex healthcare landscape. 

Why Insurers Need Health Informatics Experts

Advancements in electronic health records (EHRs) and health information systems have made it possible to collect and analyze vast amounts of patient data. Health informatics professionals are essential in helping insurers and providers turn this data into actionable strategies for: 

• Improving patient care 

• Reducing costs 

• Enhancing operational efficiency 

Insurers rely on health informatics experts to help identify care gaps, improve health literacy, reduce hospital readmissions and support members in managing chronic conditions — all while controlling spending. 

How Big Data Drives Better Healthcare Decisions

Health informatics professionals specialize in collecting, managing and analyzing healthcare data. Insurers have access to an incredible volume of information, including: 

• Claims data 

• Health risk assessments 

• Lab results 

• Medication records 

• Lifestyle and wellness program data 

By applying advanced analytics and algorithms, insurers can identify population health trends, predict risks and customize interventions. This leads to better care management and healthier patient populations at a lower cost. 

Promoting Preventive Care and Building Healthier Communities

Preventive care is a key strategy in reducing long-term healthcare costs. Through predictive analytics, insurers can identify individuals at risk for chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease or hypertension — often before symptoms appear. 

With this insight, providers and insurers can collaborate to offer: 

• Patient education programs 

• Wellness incentives 

• Preventative screenings 

• Personalized care plans 

For example, helping patients with diabetes maintain regular primary care visits can reduce the risk of complications and lead to lower treatment costs. 

Reducing Avoidable Hospital Readmissions

Hospital readmissions are costly for both healthcare systems and insurers. Health informatics plays a critical role in addressing this issue. 

Insurers use predictive analytics to identify patients at risk of readmission and provide proactive support services such as: 

• Health coaching 

• Medication management 

• Care coordination 

• Transportation assistance for medical appointments 

These efforts not only reduce costs but also improve patient experiences and outcomes. 

The Growing Demand for Health Informatics Professionals

As insurers continue to integrate health informatics into their operations, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is accelerating. Employers are looking for experts who understand both healthcare systems and data analytics — and who can lead efforts to improve health outcomes and financial sustainability. 

Prepare for a Career at the Intersection of Healthcare, Data and Technology

The University of Scranton’s online Master of Science in Health Informatics program prepares students to thrive in this rapidly evolving field. Designed for healthcare and technology professionals alike, the program provides a comprehensive education in: 

• Health information systems 

• Data analytics 

• Population health management 

• Healthcare leadership 

Graduates are equipped to take on various roles in healthcare organizations, insurance companies, government agencies, and technology firms seeking to harness the power of data to improve patient care. 

Learn how Scranton University can help you take the next step in this impactful career.

Explore the online MS in Health Informatics today!