The United States health care industry is continuously changing due to economic pressures, political issues and technological advancements. In order to maintain the viability and success of their organizations, health care managers must be fully cognizant of pending changes and the implications of these changes for their organization. This keen awareness will allow them to envision the future in order to plot their organizations route through rough waters. The only way to focus and prepare for pending change is through continuous education, and earning an advanced degree, such as, a Master of Science in Health Services Administration.
Barry University’s M.S. in Health Services Administration program (ranked 25th largest healthcare administration graduate program in the U.S., based on enrollment, by Modern Healthcare in the November 4, 2006 issue) is designed to meet the needs of health professionals, and others, in developing or enhancing the requisite knowledge and skills necessary to qualify for such leadership positions amidst the constant changes in health care delivery, managed care, policy regulation, and a diversified consumer environment. Classes, taught by experienced health professionals, are conveniently scheduled on the main campus on evenings and Saturdays to meet the needs of working health professionals. Graduate Certificate programs are also available.
Students in this program have varied backgrounds including physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers and others. They have chosen health care administration because it provides challenges and rewards not available in other careers.
The MS in Health Services Administrations is comprised of an interesting mix of students. The student body is made up of 69% female students. In addition, 72% of the student population is made up of various minority groups. And, 83% of the students are United States citizens with the balance being either residents of the United States or international students. The graphs below give more specific details on the complete breakdown.
This cultural diverse blend of students creates an outstanding learning environment, which mirrors the local healthcare community blend of employees. Students are provided an opportunity to interact with each other through classroom activities and fully grasp the concept of leading others for whom English is a second language. In addition, they have the chance to learn how cultural differences impact individuals thought processes and their approach to work related issues. This classroom learning laboratory gives each student greater depth to their educational experience in health services administration.
A recent independent study of Barry’s student-friendly program gave it very high marks. Graduates rate the program as “overwhelmingly positive” and reported significant salary increases and promotions following graduation.
Barry University, through its 10 academic schools, is a comprehensive university with its main campus located in Miami Shores, Florida, with other sites throughout the state. Barry University is comprised of over 9,000 students and over 2,100 administrators, faculty members, and support staff all representing diverse religious, cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Barry is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; Telephone number 404-679-4501).
Successful health care managers identify issues and trends by reading, interacting with peers and astutely monitoring industry trends. These individuals never stop learning, because they continuously challenge themselves to improve their organizations. Advanced education assists you by fine-tuning your critical thinking and analytical skills.
All of us need to develop these continuing education skills. The first step is to read daily newspapers, trade journals and publications like The Wall Street Journal. This is followed by perusing professional materials. In addition, the successful health care manager enhances their knowledge base by studying the advances in other industries and determining how these management advances might be applied to their health care organization. Publications such as Business Week, Fortune or Forbes are a good place to begin. Reading books published by successful executives is a great way to broaden your horizons.
The next major step in this continuing educational venture is to develop networking skills and relationships. It is of the utmost importance to attend functions where a health care manager can interact with his/her peers. This interaction allows you to glean information, exchange data and use your peers as a sounding board of new concepts or approaches. You will be astounded as to what you can learn by mingling and chatting with individuals at professional meetings. Remember, your most important skill is your ability to communicate effectively and efficiently, whether it be verbal or written.
If you want to enjoy a successful and fruitful career, it is your personal responsibility to continue your lifelong professional education. You must determine the methodologies that work for you and continually pursue these activities. Only you control your professional destiny!
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