We Are HIMSS Member Spotlight: Michael Petersen

At HIMSS, our members are the heart of our organization, made up of more than 100,000 individuals, 480 provider organizations, 470 non-profit partners and 650 health services organizations. Because their contributions are essential to our success, we seek to recognize their many accomplishments across title, worksite, region and career stage. Today and every day, we celebrate the essential endeavors of these health information and technology changemakers. #wearehimss

Michael Petersen is a member of the Social Determinants of Health Task Force.

Michael Petersen, MD
VP Consultant | Chief Clinical Innovation Officer
NTT Data Services

What do you see as the future of health information and technology? Where do you think the industry can/will go?

I see a focus on a range of technologies that will drive seamless digital and clinical experiences along a personalized care journey. These technologies will coincide with emerging models of care by leveraging an ecosystem of partners that support the confluence of health and social care. Ideally, these experiences are catalyzed by cloud-based technologies grounded in high-quality data and integrated on the back-end through various workflows tied to newer, realistic, and value-based metrics.  

What advice do you have for someone who is considering a career in health information and technology?

A career in health information and technology provides a unique opportunity to branch into an industry that is well-positioned to create change and make a difference. I would recommend specializing in a sector that drives your passion and speaks to your creative energy.

Consider developing an expertise in a specific technology or skill set, and then sub-specialize. Aim to be known in the market for your unique set of skills and expertise. Healthcare is complicated, and the rate of innovation is rapidly evolving for emerging healthcare technologies. This may not align with the pace of health industry decision-makers, but don't let that frustrate or break you. Sometimes it takes a pandemic to move the market.  

What's your favorite quote and why?

“Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in healthcare is the most shocking and inhumane.”

Martin Luther King Jr. said this 55 years ago, and it reminds us that as leaders in healthcare, we all have a moral and social responsibility to fight for change and solve for health equity. The recent confluence of racial justice events and the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on communities of color is quantitative evidence that little has changed and there is much to be done. I continue to be humbled by any opportunity to help our clients solve significant healthcare challenges with culturally competent, community-centered strategies.  If not now, when?