r/healthIT • u/theoreticalcash • 5d ago

Epic MLS getting the self-study Beaker certification, where do I go next?

Hi all,

I’m a Medical Laboratory Scientist and I’m currently getting Epics self-study beaker certification. (Obviously I’m not getting the true cert because I’m not going to Wisconsin, but I’m still going through the same program)

I wanted to know the best way for me to use this to pivot into health IT, could anyone who’s done something similar give me any advice on it?

Thanks!

7 Upvotes

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5

u/pauliep84 5d ago

Start networking with your current build team. Also update your LinkedIn and look for opportunities in Managed Services. Most contracting and FTE roles want already certified and build experienced analysts. If you have any roles such as CT, PT, or lab informatics, these could be segues to an analyst role.

3

u/Old-Science-Cogito 5d ago

You should be able to see the related train tracks for that cert within Epics training webpage.

1

u/theoreticalcash 5d ago

not at all what I’m asking but thanks!

3

u/Old-Science-Cogito 5d ago

Sorry, I must have misread your ask. I assumed that you wanted to leverage your beaker cert into an IT role, and my answer was, see what other beaker related train tracks get you deeper into that Beaker IT space.

1

u/theoreticalcash 5d ago

Oh gotcha! Thanks for the advice!

3

u/mrandr01d 5d ago

I'd just start applying to openings. If you have the self study that's a big leg up.

2

u/acosu27 5d ago

I did this as an MLT 4 years ago and now I’m on the Optime/Anesthesia team for a local hospital. I think it helps showing your future employer or current org how committed you are and looks good on your resume.

2

u/Senior_Middle_873 5d ago

Being accredited is just as good as being certified. It's the same projects and test. If a prospective employer saw you are accredited, its a matter of sending you to the classes and they'll flip the accreditation to certified.

On your resume put accreddited, put in parenthesis certification pending in-person classes. The hardest part is getting certified itself, most Epic analysts arent Epic certified.

1

u/Saxon_93 5d ago

But having proficiency in a certification track and being accredited aren't different? I myself working on Epic Bridges proficiency track.

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u/StynaSilverwing 3d ago

It depends on the viewer. All 3 (Certification, Accreditation, Proficiency) need the same tests, projects, self assessments, E-learning videos with the same grades to pass. The only difference is whether an instructor was paid for and whether class was held in person or online.

Epic will even flip your tracks if you pay and attend class.

Many companies prefer Certification > Accreditation > Proficiency though some hiring managers find Proficiency impressive because you’re self-taught.

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u/Saxon_93 3d ago

Thanks for your reply