Rachel Fellner

Rachel Fellner has long been driven by a passion for healthcare and a desire to make a meaningful impact in her community. She began her academic journey at the University of Victoria in general sciences, but it was a Computer Science course that introduced her to the dynamic field of Health Informatics. Discovering a perfect intersection between her interests in healthcare and technology, Rachel transitioned into the BSc in Health Information Science program.

Throughout her studies, Rachel found the curriculum to be highly relevant to real-world applications. However, it was her co-op experiences that proved most transformative. These hands-on work terms allowed her to apply classroom learning in practical settings, enriching her academic understanding while building industry-ready skills. Her first co-op at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto sparked a strong interest in change management, project management, and clinical workflows—areas that continue to shape her career today.

After completing her undergraduate degree, Rachel pursued a global opportunity to further her education. She recently earned a Master of Science in Healthcare Management and Data Intelligence from emlyon business school and École des Mines de Saint-Étienne in France.

In September 2024, Rachel took on a new and exciting role as a Health Policy Researcher at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris. Her work focuses on digital health policy across the 38 OECD member countries, including Canada. She explores high-impact topics such as the adoption of artificial intelligence in healthcare, data interoperability, and health data governance. This role has given her a broader perspective on global healthcare challenges and the critical components of building person-centered, prevention-focused, and equitable health systems.

Rachel’s career has also taken her beyond North America and Europe. She previously worked at a rural health centre in Northern Ghana, where she led the implementation of a Community Electronic Medical Record system. This experience reinforced the versatility and global applicability of the skills she developed at UVic. She has also contributed to healthcare innovation through her work with the Office of the Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO) at Island Health.

Rachel’s journey is a testament to the far-reaching impact of a degree in Health Information Science—one that opens doors locally and globally, and prepares graduates to lead in a rapidly evolving digital health landscape.