Mandy Ampt
- Position: Researcher
- Employer: Centre for Health Informatics at the University of NSW
- Current study: Undertaking PhD
Five years ago, Mandy Ampt worked as a clinical nurse specialist in midwifery. Today she’s employed as a researcher at the Centre for Health Informatics at the University of NSW and is undertaking a PhD investigating the effect of electronic medication management systems on nurses’ work practices. She made the leap from clinician to researcher through postgraduate study, in this case via a Master of Health Information Management.
Like a number of nurses who have undertaken the program, Mandy Ampt was looking for an opportunity to move into an area that would combine her clinical expertise with the current trends in information management. “Having worked in the clinical area for many years, I was aware of the changes that had been imposed on clinicians with seemingly little input from them. I was really keen to be a nursing voice in the decisions and directions around information systems,” she said.
The School of Health Information Management at the University of Sydney introduced the graduate entry coursework program, the Master of Health Information Management, in 2001. Head of School, Professor Beth Reid said developments in electronic health records, computerised order entry systems, point of care clinical systems, and electronic decision support present opportunities and challenges for the health workforce. “The overwhelming number of students undertaking this program are seeking leverage for a career change. Their background is predominantly from health, be they from nursing, allied health or medicine. Most are looking to build on their existing clinical base and recognise the opportunities afforded in roles dealing with information,” she said.
The program, which commences in February/March each year, is offered on a full-time basis over two, 16-week semesters, or part-time over four semesters. Postgraduate Coordinator, Anne Marks, believes that the program is designed to meet the needs of students juggling work, family and study commitments. “The units of study in the program are delivered flexibly, with most units offered in an on-campus format over three to four days; others run through distance learning and online learning. Many of the units use a problem-based learning approach, and theory is supplemented by a professional experience placement,” she said. Students undertake eight core professional units of study, for which recognition of prior learning will be granted if applicable. Students are then encouraged to choose four electives that add to their range of skills and knowledge.
To date 94 students have graduated from the program and another 30 are currently enrolled. As Ampt says “without my masters qualification I wouldn’t be in this position today. Added to that, the course gave me practical skills in computer literacy, data mining, as well as a strong background in information management. Professionally, doing the course is one of the best moves I’ve made.”
