Pharmacy Informatics Roles & Organization Chart Considerations

Abstract

Structuring a pharmacy informatics team involves navigating the complex "grey lines" between operational pharmacy and enterprise IT. This resource explores the pros and cons of various organizational models, recognizing that there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution for health systems.

Key Organizational Concepts:

• Role Definitions: Defining the distinct responsibilities of Solution Architects, Informatics Pharmacists, and Domain Analysts (Pharmacy vs. IT focus).
• Structural Models:
  • Divided Model: Separate teams with clear lines but potential misalignment.
  • Hybrid/Matrix Model: Intermingled resources that cover more ground but risk "tug-of-war" or conflicting agendas.
• Reporting Hierarchies: Weighing the control of Pharmacy-dominant structures (risk of "shadow IT") against the process alignment of IT-dominant structures (risk of bureaucratic bottlenecks).
• Success Factors: Ultimately, the guide concludes that successful teams depend less on the chart itself and more on culture, communication, and co-investment.