Early Foundations: Medical Laboratory Science (2014 - 2018)
My journey into the world of data and health informatics began in Nigeria, where I completed my Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science at Babcock University in 2014. During this time, I developed a deep understanding of healthcare processes and the importance of accurate data for diagnosis and treatment.
After graduating, I worked as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Garki Hospital Abuja, Nigeria, from May 2016 to June 2018. In this role, I honed my skills in laboratory procedures, clinical data interpretation, and health system management. This experience grounded me in the clinical aspects of healthcare, which later influenced my move into health data analytics.
Transition to Health Informatics (2018 - 2020)
To expand my expertise in data science and technology, I pursued a Master of Science in Health Informatics at Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), graduating in 2020. This program gave me the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to transition into data-driven roles in healthcare, particularly in data analytics, clinical informatics and decision support systems.
During my graduate studies, I interned as a Data Analyst at the Indiana University Center for Health Innovation and Implementation Science from May to December 2019. There, I worked on healthcare data modeling and implementation projects that were pivotal in advancing health systems performance and patient outcomes by analyzing clinical Quality Measures (CQM) data collected from more than 11000 clinicians in the midwest great lakes region.Our work aided the transformation of practices and their alignment with the CMS quadruple aim of better care and improved outcomes at lower costs with enhanced patient and clinician experiences.
Also, I joined the Purkayastha Lab for Health Innovation as a Graduate Research Assistant. From January to May 2020, I worked on innovative health data projects, applying qualitative and quantitative research methods to solve real-world problems. One of my key projects involved using deep learning models for blood glucose level prediction through continuous glucose monitoring device. This research, marked my first major contribution to the intersection of health and technology research.
Stepping Into Data Analytics (2019 - 2021)
After completing my master’s degree, I participated in the 2020 Google Summer of Code program. As a Software Developer Intern, I collaborated on open-source health technology projects that built on my graduate thesis into the developing interoperable healthcare systems based on Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR) Resources. This experience strengthened my belief in using software to enhance healthcare accessibility and outcomes on a global scale.
Moving on, I expanded my analytical capabilities, working with the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) from July 2020 to November 2021. During this time, I provided data-driven insights on public health initiatives, particularly around the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. My work ranged from statistical inference to dashboard development, using tools like SQL, R, Python, and Tableau to turn raw data into actionable insights for decision-makers.
Looking Ahead (Present and Beyond)
In November 2021, I started by my current position as a Data Programmer Analyst at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (November 2021 - Present), where I work with large clinical datasets to aid in the improvement of healthcare outcomes in the Neonatology unit. My role allows me to explore new frontiers in clinical quality improvement, develop other technical skillsets including cloud services like AWS, Snowflake, and Databricks and data engineering skills like DBT and Airflow
Today, I continue to build on my expertise in clinical informatics and data analytics, leveraging my skills to solve complex challenges in healthcare. My passion for research is evident in my publications on clinical decision support systems and machine learning in healthcare, where I aim to improve care delivery and patient outcomes.
Through my professional journey, I’ve come to realize that healthcare and technology are more intertwined than ever. As I look toward the future, I remain committed to advancing data-driven healthcare innovations and contributing to a healthier, more connected world.