HIMSS has updated its definition of the Chief Nursing Informatics Officer (CNIO) role and the CNIO job description, incorporating workforce trends and results from the HIMSS Nursing Informatics Workforce Survey to reflect the rapidly evolving demands of today’s dynamic healthcare landscape.

Also sometimes known as Chief Clinical Information Officers, CNIOs are pivotal in bridging clinical practice and health information technology to improve patient care and drive organizational innovation.

Explore the CNIO role and other health information and technology job descriptions.

The updated job description highlights strategic leadership, digital transformation, clinical informatics and workflow optimization, and it emphasizes workforce education and innovation.

These changes ensure the CNIO role remains aligned with modern healthcare priorities, promoting data-driven care, enhancing patient safety and driving operational excellence.

The CNIO job description was written by the HIMSS CNO-CNIO Vendor Roundtable group and reviewed by the HIMSS Nursing Informatics Community, building upon the foundations of the position outlined in the past.

Insights from the experts

Jennifer Elliott, MS, BSN, LSSYB, Clinical Solutions Consultant – Medication Management Solutions, BD:

“It was a privilege to contribute to the HIMSS CNIO Job Description Committee. The CNIO role is pivotal in the dynamic field of nursing informatics. This job description serves as a valuable resource for organizations seeking a proficient informatics nurse leader to spearhead technological innovation, enhance clinical practice, and steer strategic direction. I extend my gratitude to the committee members for their expertise and dedication in crafting this impactful document.”

Kassaundra Mcknight-Young, MSN, RN, NI-BC, CNIO, Healthcare Industry Principal, Zebra Technologies:

“It has been a distinct honor and privilege to collaborate with HIMSS and a distinguished group of industry colleagues in the development of the updated Chief Nursing Informatics Officer (CNIO) job description. This important work reflects the evolving scope, influence, and strategic impact of nursing informatics leadership within today’s healthcare landscape. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a collective effort that will serve as a valuable resource for healthcare organizations, nursing leaders, and informatics professionals alike. My deepest appreciation to all contributors for their insight, expertise, and unwavering commitment to advancing our profession.”

Rachelle Landry, MBA, RN, FACHE, LSSGB, CLHP, Vice President, Clinical Transformation, BD:

“The HIMSS CNIO job description serves as a strategic guidepost for healthcare organizations, illustrating how the CNIO role is essential in bridging clinical expertise and digital innovation to drive transformation, elevate care and empower. We extend our sincere thanks to the committee members and contributors whose insights, expertise, and thoughtful feedback were instrumental in shaping this comprehensive and forward-looking resource.

The HIMSS Professional Development Committee develops health information and technology job descriptions each year with regular additions and revisions to help professionals who are new or transitioning into the industry understand the different areas of the field; and to assist employers in creating their own job descriptions for real positions.