Technology is changing healthcare fast. As Health Information Management (HIM) students, you’re not just learning how to handle records you’re preparing to lead the way in a digital healthcare world.

My recent research through the University of Otago in New Zealand examined four vital digital skills among medical students. Given the digital demands in HIM, these skills are arguably even more important for you.

Know How Digital Health Works Around You

You need to understand the digital health systems in your hospital, clinic, or community. It’s not just about learning software it’s about knowing how everything connects: the people, the tools, and the data.

Once you understand how your local health system works, it’s easier to spot what’s working, what’s not, and how you can make things better.

“My experience in the hospital showed me how essential digital infrastructure is to modern healthcare — from data management and real-time updates to patient coordination. It motivated me to learn how digital tools can improve health services and support more efficient systems.”

Be Smart About Data Safety and Privacy

In HIM, you’re trusted with sensitive patient information. That means you need to know how to keep it safe.

Understand how patient data is collected, stored, and shared. Learn the rules around privacy and security. If you make a mistake, it could affect someone’s life—or their trust in the health system.

“In health and digital systems, we need professionals who understand that protecting privacy is as important as delivering results. Responsible data use isn’t just best practice—it’s essential to maintaining public trust and ethical standards.”

Get Hands-On With Digital Tools

You won’t just sit behind a computer. You’ll work with real tools—EMRs, databases, communication platforms, and more. Being able to use them well will help doctors, nurses, and patients get the right information at the right time.

“Digital health isn’t about sitting passively behind a screen, it’s about working with real tools that drive modern healthcare. From Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) to patient databases, scheduling systems, and secure communication platforms, these digital tools are critical to how care is delivered today. Knowing how to use them effectively ensures that doctors, nurses, and patients receive the right information, at the right time, in the right format.

What many people don’t realize is just how much administrative work supports clinical care. Behind every consultation or treatment plan, there’s documentation, coordination, reporting, and follow-up—all dependent on well-functioning systems. Good tools don’t just make the work easier; they improve accuracy, reduce delays, and help prevent costly errors.

This is why it’s important to build your confidence early. Practice using these platforms, understand how data flows across systems, and develop the ability to troubleshoot and communicate clearly. In doing so, you won’t just be supporting the process—you’ll be contributing to better outcomes and more efficient, patient-centered care.”

Learn to Think Ahead—and Share What You Learn

Digital health is always evolving. To stay relevant and make meaningful contributions, you must remain curious, ask critical questions, and keep learning. Can you assess whether a health app is reliable? Can you communicate your findings clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders? These are essential skills in today’s healthcare landscape.

In my own experience, I’ve taken an active role in shaping digital systems rather than passively using them. I  have challenged vendors on the design and usability of digital interfaces to ensure they are user-centered and practical for clinical workflows. I was also invited by the CEO/Managing Director of my facility to contribute to technical submissions and evaluations related to Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) and digital platforms. During these sessions, I provided insights that went beyond common assumptions—offering thoughtful recommendations grounded in real-world experience, system usability, and strategic implementation.

This is the kind of thinking the health system needs—individuals who bring not just competence, but also confidence, critical analysis, and a forward-looking mindset. If you want to thrive in digital health, start now. Build your skills in research, writing, digital literacy, and problem-solving. The future of healthcare depends on people who are ready not only to adapt to change but to lead it.

So, take every chance to:

• Learn the systems around you
• Respect and protect patient data
• Practice using digital tools
• Keep asking questions and stay curious

You’re the future of health information—and your role has never been more important.

Mustapha Olaniyi, has over 8 years of experience in marketing and public relations.

He has written more than 3,000 news articles, with a strong focus on healthcare data, Health Information Management (HIM) innovations, healthcare technology, and social action.

As a freelance communications specialist, he has also ghostwritten for CEOs of local, national, and global charities, nonprofits, and foundations.