The aims is to cover a wide range of information technology that is used by a medical physicist in a clinical setting. The module aim to cover a range of tools including the use of computer software in spreadsheets, flat-file and structured databases and mathematical modelling in Medical Physics. Software coding and coding management principals are also covered. There will also be sessionsaimed at giving the students information covering the role of the Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in Medical Devices with software. The module aims to give the students information on Governance, including NHS security policies. Another aim is to introduce the students to the concepts of common standards for data exchange, eg Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) and Healthcare Level 7 (HL7).

Knowledge of the use of range of general purpose computer software in common use including spreadsheets, flat-file and structured databases, online reference and collaborative resources

An understanding that computing applied clinically involves additional safeguards when ''the computer acts as a clinical device'' including an understanding of the role of MHRA, FDA and IEC (CE Marking)

An introduction to the concept of the software lifecycle and the tools and frameworks used to specify, develop, validate and verify clinical software

Understand of the basic principles relating to ICT security including firewalls, virus protection, encryption, server access and data security. An understanding of Information Governance, including NHS security policies

Understand the networking systems in common clinical use and be aware of the relevant local Trust IT policies Understand the basic principles of applicable legislation and of local policies including the Data Protection Act, Computer Misuse Act and Freedom of Information Act

Understand the need for data exchange standards and be aware of some of the common standards, e.g. DICOM and HL7

• Spreadsheets, databases, reference resources
• Patient management systems
• Computers and the Medical Device Directive
• ICT security - firewalls, virus protection, encryption, server access and data security
• An understanding of Information Governance, including NHS security policies including the Data Protection Act, Computer Misuse Act and Freedom of Information Act.
• Data exchange standards - DICOM and HL7
• Networking systems Software coding and coding management
• Real time system programming
• Embedded system programming and development
• Web programming
• Artificial intelligence and expert systems: Application in medicine

There is a formative class test at the ned of the module.

There is a computer based session using software tools including Mat Lab. This is then used for the assignment.

Lecture - A series of one hour lectures

Medical Physicists working in the NHS cover the IT tools and principles they use as part of their role

Tutorial - Problem solving and revision

Students can get help solving problems, see model answers to problems and ask any questions

Laboratory Work - Use of computer software tools

Students get hands on experience of using software tool that are typically used in the NHS including MatLab that is them used in the assignment