We Are HIMSS Member Spotlight: Robert L. Steele

At HIMSS, our members are the heart of our organization, made up of more than 100,000 individuals, 480 provider organizations, 470 non-profit partners and 650 health services organizations. Because their contributions are essential to our success, we seek to recognize their many accomplishments across title, worksite, region and career stage. Today and every day, we celebrate the essential endeavors of these health information and technology changemakers. #wearehimss

Robert L. Steele, SHIMSS
Senior Director Clinical Applications
Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

What is a collaboration that makes you proud?

In 2016, HIMSS allowed a small group of individuals to pilot a program that became the HIMSS Stage 7 Certified Facilitator/Educators. Admittedly, it was unchartered territory. As both a seasoned clinician and IT professional, I was elated to be chosen to embark upon this endeavor. I have since mentored many institutions and organizations to reach this amazing achievement. Patient care can truly be more accessible through technology, which is more important today than ever. 

What advice do you have for someone who is considering a career in health information and technology?

It is the best of both worlds. Health information and technology allows you to utilize the innate ability to take clinical knowledge, skill, technical feasibility and foundations, and then think completely out of the box to conquer and solve extremely complex issues that others may have thought were unachievable. Health information and technology has definitely taken us to the next level, and there are still many levels to achieve.

What can you talk about for hours?

Pure and simple, the evolution of patient care during my career of over 40 years comparing and contrasting where we have been, how far we have come, how much farther we can go, and how technology has played a key role in the journey.

What's your favorite movie and/or quote?

My favorite film is "The Sound of Music." My favorite quote comes from that movie, with a twist: "When obstacles and challenges close a door, technology can open a window.”