Becoming a Clinical Coordinator

Clinical Coordinators play a key role in overseeing the day-to-day activities of a healthcare setting. Their responsibilities include managing staff, communicating with different departments, attending periodic meetings, ensuring adequate patient care and assisting certain patients in designated units. They also manage the budget and resources, implement policies and procedures, evaluate personnel and prepare reports. In some cases, they may be involved in pharmaceutical research using clinical trials, human subjects or a variety of other methods.

Clinical Coordinators work in a variety of public and private settings such as hospitals, medical facilities, community health settings, research centers, educational institutions etc. They assume accountability, leadership and coordination of patient care and the clinical operation with integrity. They often work full time.

Educational Requirements

To become a Clinical Coordinator, the aspiring candidates have to earn a 4-year bachelor’s degree in health administration or nursing. However, the students can pursue a master’s degree in public health, nursing or in a related field to find better employment opportunities in this profession.

The common syllabus includes anatomy, biology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, health administration etc. Students may also take classes in medical ethics, record keeping, and financial management to get a position of Clinical Coordinator.

Licensure & Certification

Since most states of USA require a Clinical Coordinator to be licensed, the aspiring candidates have to earn a License after passing a required examination. The candidates can obtain certification from the Society of Clinical Research Associations (SoCRA) or the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

Skill set

Apart from the clinical knowledge, Clinical Coordinators possess wide range of skills such as an ability to establish and maintain cordial working relationship with patients, medical staff, co-workers, and the public; competent in time management, leadership, and record keeping skills; risk management abilities; knowledge and understanding of various policies and procedures; ability to maintain calm and react effectively in emergency situation; strong communication and interpersonal skills; knowledge in computer application etc.

Job Outlook and Salary

The job outlook for a Clinical Coordinator remains excellent across the USA. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the growth rate for job opportunities in this profession may rise 23% during 2012-2022. The average annual salary of a Clinical Coordinator was $88,580 per year in May 2012.