The field of health care includes a variety of biostatistics careers in public health. Read below to learn about four distinctive biostatistics related careers.
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians provide statistical expertise and guidance for research projects in accordance with established protocols, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They develop and disseminate statistical analysis plans to health care decision makers. Biostatisticians for choosing every project’s appropriate sample size, study design and statistical methods. They manage the timely implementation of research milestones and statistical methodological components. They meet project objectives through solid project management skills and thorough understandings of statistical standards. Biostatisticians apply their statistical knowledge to provide statistical support for observational studies and medical record research projects. They often use public and government databases to gather their statistical information.
Research Manager
Research managers supervise patient-centered programs that are dedicated to curing certain diseases or researching certain health conditions. Responsibilities include oversight of on-site labs and online patient research sites. They regularly disseminate quarterly and annual patient surveys. Research managers work with data analytics and health informatics technicians to collect and track data patterns. Their shared goals are to better manage patient-focused research activities. Research managers use standard programs, such as Microsoft Access, and proprietary statistical and database software (SPSS) programs. Research managers are expected to have a master’s degree in public health or biostatistics. Research managers are often assigned both short- and long-term projects with narrowly defined goals and data parameters.
Health Economist
Health economists are primarily accountable for developing and maintaining knowledge of relevant health care-based economical topics. This includes disease areas, clinical research, reimbursement issues and emerging regulations. Health economists act as policy advisors, strategy consultants and planning partners because they provide important insights and perspectives into economic trends and objectives. They assess the value, quality and benefits of targeted products. They work with business and finance managers to create efficient tools, processes and standards. Health economists create cross-functional plans and strategies for health care programs and systems. Their advice is used by health care decision makers in companies and government agencies to update policies and streamline processes. They assist stakeholders with selecting the best health care research and development strategies.
Operations Manager
Biostatistics operations managers assume responsibility for developing, communicating and fine-tuning the procedures and programs. They assess, measure and report on various factors, such as budget impacts, patient outcomes, and cost- effectiveness and minimization. Operations managers work with supervisors to determine roadmaps and workflows to improve access, care quality and reimbursement strategies. They evaluate bio-statistical data sets to determine appropriate research opportunities. Operations managers often join meetings and projects to plan initiatives and objectives that ensure optimal research success. They provide key leaders with critical insights into treatment trends, patient perceptions and market challenges and opportunities. Biostatistics operations managers are expected to have a strong background in health care policy and statistics.
Related Resource: Medical Director
There are additional biostatistics careers in public health available, such epidemiologists, who investigate diseases, and clinical research administrators, who supervise controlled lab experiments. While you may be able to land one of these jobs with a bachelor’s degree, masters in biostatistics in typically the minimum requirement. Be sure to check out our ranking on some of the best biostatistics masters programs online.