CS 6440: Intro to Health Informatics
Instructional Team
Jon Duke
Instructor
Elizabeth Shivers
Instructor
Raj Vansia
Head TA
Overview
CS 6440: Introduction to Health Informatics is designed so that students with a variety of backgrounds can gain basic proficiency in health informatics. Health informatics encompasses the application of computing to: healthcare delivery; population and public health; community-based clinical research; and the potential for big data and analytics to transform the field. This is distinct from the related field of bioinformatics, which explores the role of computing in understanding the genomic and proteomic processes within cells.
During CS 6440, students will explore health information technology through working with lab assignments and a practicum project designed to provide a hands-on experience with state-of-the-art health informatics tools and systems. Students will get a chance to work closely with a TA mentor that will help guide them throughout the project and provide insights into the healthcare domain. Topics include health terminologies, FHIR, SMARTonFHIR, the OMOP Common Data Model, OHDSI Atlas, Artificial Intelligence, LLMs, and more! They will apply the knowledge and skills they learn to work individually or with a team of their classmates on a real-world clinical challenge.
Sample Syllabus
Sample syllabus (PDF)
Note: Sample syllabi are provided for informational purposes only. For the most up-to-date information, consult the official course documentation.
Course Videos
You can view the lecture videos for this course here.
Before Taking This Class...
Suggested Background Knowledge
Students must have a basic computer science background and be proficient in modern programming languages. Most of the tools utilized in the course are Java or Python based, with one lab working in TypeScript using React. All lab code is simplified and does not require advanced knowledge in one particular programming language, with the focus on the healthcare applications and data standards. Labs and tools may utilize Docker for deployment, though advance knowledge is not required. Team projects can vary significantly, with students often allowed to work in their strengths or learn new libraries/frameworks (e.g., React, Angular, Python APIs, etc.). While not required, familiarity with web application deployment may be beneficial for projects. No previous knowledge of health informatics is required. Any student qualified enough to be admitted to OMSCS—and willing to put in the necessary time for course work—should be prepared for this course.
Major Languages and Tools: Java, Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, React, Docker
Technical Requirements and Software
Georgia Tech's Office of Student Computer Ownership issues minimum hardware requirements to incoming undergraduates; you should meet or exceed these guidelines.
Please be aware that the course may not be able to fully accommodate issues with student hardware or specific environmental issues. Students will be responsible for addressing such issues or locating a suitable device.
Academic Integrity
All Georgia Tech students are expected to uphold the Georgia Tech Academic Honor Code. This course may impose additional academic integrity stipulations; consult the official course documentation for more information.