Anyone out there in healthcare IT? (I'm looking for some direction) (apply, degree)

[aspiring_health_executive]

Hello, I am looking for some help in planning out my career. I know that I went to work under the umbrella of healthcare IT, but I am not sure specifically what or where I'm going.


My background:
-currently enrolled in an MS Health Informatics (I qualify for the RHIA after the program)
-I'm working as a medical records technician/admin assistant (in a clinic)


In 10 years I would like some type of leadership/executive/managerial position. But I know it takes time, experience, and education to get there. The problem is, I'm not really sure what exactly I want to do for sure. I'm pretty much opened for anything but I want to be in the health IT field.

I have looked into PhD Biomedical Informatics programs. I wouldn't mind working in a lead role in academia / research either. In 10 years, I would just like a leadership position. but the years leading to those 10 years is where I'm concerned about. Will not having a clinical background be a major disadvantage for me and my chances at finding work?


some roles that I'm interested in:
-analyst
-consultant
-engineer
-CIO
-CTO
-documentation specialist
-researcher / head of a department


I'm lost. my plans are way too vague and I'm just looking for some direction. can anyone in this field shed some light on the various aspects?


my next plan is to apply for higher paying roles after I get my masters and RHIA and then go for a 2nd masters in computer science. I want to build skills in programming, understanding databases, etc. instead of a certificate, the actual degree is just a few more additional courses, so why not just get the degree too.


Help

[Serious Conversation]

Many people with a clinical background can go into working with individual modules/components of an EHR.

[aspiring_health_executive]

Which means this field will always have room for non-clinical folks?