David Gill is a recent graduate of Pitt’s Master of Science in Health Informatics (MSHI) program and a veteran of the U.S. Army. Gill had an honorable career in the military prior to discovering his interest in health informatics; a passion that brought him to our Department of Health Information Management. He is now the chief of Patient Administration at Keller Army Community Hospital in West Point, NY. We asked him a few questions about his health informatics journey to where he is today.
What was your career prior to entering our MSHI program?
Before I began my studies at Pitt, I served in the U.S. Army in a variety of roles. I was a platoon leader in charge of treating wounded soldiers and managing medical supplies. I requested to be sent to a hospital and was stationed in Fort Wainwright, AK, as the chief of Patient Administration. The role heavily revolved around health information and informatics.
What attracted you to the MSHI program at the University of Pittsburgh?
I first learned about Pitt’s MSHI program through word of mouth while serving in the Army. I was doing the job but was not aware that there were degree programs for it. I was lucky enough to have a friend who graduated from the program and told me how amazing it was. I loved learning about health informatics and health information, and it seemed like a great fit for me. After meeting the requirements and applying, I was fortunate enough to be selected by the Army to attend the program.
What sets Pitt Health Informatics apart from other degree programs?
The Army gave me the choice to attend the University of Pittsburgh or select another school, but after hearing such amazing things about Pitt’s immersive internships, world-renowned faculty, curriculum tracks and the education provided, there really wasn’t another option for me. I enjoyed my time in the program tremendously and the skills I gained have already helped me in the first weeks of my new job.
Where are you working now?
After graduation, I was selected to be the chief of Patient Administration (Health Information Management) at Keller Army Community Hospital at the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY. It is an honor to join a hospital that has established a solid reputation as a compassionate, easily accessible and cutting-edge patient-centered medical facility for the military community. As new patients join the military, it is my duty to protect the health and privacy of every individual that makes up our base. I look forward to using the education I gained at Pitt to successfully manage their upcoming electronic health record migration.
Pitt’s Master of Science in Health Informatics is the only program that combines data science, health informatics and analytics with a nationally recognized program in health information management. Join us in shaping the next generation of health care professionals and apply now!