In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the demand for skilled and knowledgeable healthcare managers is higher than ever. These professionals are the backbone of effective healthcare delivery, ensuring that hospitals, clinics, and healthcare organizations operate smoothly and efficiently, ultimately impacting patient care. If you’re considering advancing your career in this vital sector, pursuing a Master’s degree in Health Care Management is a strategic move. While you might be exploring options like Ashford University Masters Health Care Programs, it’s crucial to consider a range of institutions that offer robust and specialized programs designed to equip you with the expertise needed to excel.
Saint Leo University, with its long-standing commitment to quality education and career-focused programs, offers a distinguished MBA in Health Care Management. To provide a comprehensive understanding of what this program entails and how it can benefit aspiring healthcare leaders, we spoke with Dr. Rafael Rosado-Ortiz, the Chair of Saint Leo’s Health Care Management Department and MBA program. His insights shed light on the program’s unique features and its relevance in today’s healthcare industry.
Q: Could you tell us about the history of Saint Leo’s MBA in Health Care Management program and the reasons for its inception?
A: Saint Leo University recognized the growing need for specialized healthcare management education early on, launching our program at the bachelor’s level in the early 1990s. Over the decades, the healthcare industry has undergone significant transformations, with increasing patient populations and evolving complexities in healthcare delivery. This evolution underscored the critical importance of educating professionals who can effectively manage these challenges.
Our MBA in Health Care Management program is specifically designed for individuals who already possess some experience in the healthcare field and are seeking to advance into leadership roles. We also welcome students from diverse backgrounds who are looking to transition into a healthcare management career, bringing valuable perspectives and skills from other sectors.
Q: What are the core areas of study within the MBA in Health Care Management curriculum at Saint Leo University?
A: The program is meticulously structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of both business administration and the intricacies of healthcare management. Students are required to complete 36 credit hours of coursework, thoughtfully divided between core MBA courses and specialized healthcare management modules.
The curriculum encompasses a wide range of essential topics, including:
- Healthcare Law: Understanding the legal and regulatory framework governing healthcare operations is paramount for effective management.
- Public Health: Developing a population health perspective is crucial for managers to address community health needs and contribute to broader healthcare initiatives.
- Community Assessments: Learning to assess the specific health needs of communities enables managers to tailor services and programs effectively.
- Business and Finance: A strong foundation in business principles, financial management, and healthcare economics is essential for strategic decision-making in healthcare organizations.
- Basic Medical Terminology and Jargon: Familiarity with medical language facilitates effective communication and collaboration within healthcare settings.
- Contemporary Healthcare Facility Management: The program explores the modern challenges and best practices in managing various types of healthcare facilities in the 21st century.
Alt text: Dr Rafael Rosado Ortiz Saint Leo University Health Care Management Department Chair
Q: What are the key objectives of the MBA in Health Care Management program at Saint Leo University?
A: Our curriculum is strategically designed with several core goals in mind:
- Preparing Nuanced Healthcare Managers: We aim to equip managers with a deep understanding of the diverse programs and services within the healthcare field, enabling them to lead effectively across various departments and specialties.
- Navigating the Healthcare System: The program provides current and future managers with the skills to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, encompassing finance, marketing, regulatory compliance, and community engagement.
- Community-Centric Approach: We emphasize the importance of understanding the communities healthcare organizations serve. Graduates will be prepared to identify community needs and align services accordingly.
- Customer-Focused Service Delivery: A key objective is to train managers to identify target patient populations and ensure they receive the appropriate and necessary services.
Ultimately, we strive to graduate individuals who are not only effective managers but also compassionate leaders. They should possess the analytical and problem-solving skills to address challenges, particularly ethical dilemmas and common issues within the healthcare sector, while maintaining a patient-centered approach.
Q: How is the MBA in Health Care Management program offered at Saint Leo University?
A: To cater to the needs of working professionals and students from diverse locations, this program is primarily offered online. This flexible online format allows students to balance their studies with their existing commitments. However, for students who prefer a blended learning experience, the core MBA business courses can also be taken on-ground at Saint Leo’s University Campus and at select Education Centers. This provides options for students to tailor their learning experience to their individual preferences and circumstances.
Q: Who comprises the faculty of the MBA in Health Care Management program?
A: We are proud to have a distinguished faculty of experienced professionals and academics dedicated to providing high-quality instruction and mentorship. Our faculty includes four full-time members and a select group of adjunct professors, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the program.
Let me introduce you to some of our full-time faculty members:
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Dr. Rafael A. Rosado-Ortiz: As mentioned, Dr. Rosado-Ortiz chairs the department and brings over 30 years of experience as a Family Practice physician and public health management expert. His extensive background spans preventive medicine, healthcare management, managed care programs, and community healthcare initiatives across the US, Caribbean, and Latin America. His prior roles include serving as an executive physician for the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice. Dr. Rosado-Ortiz holds an MBA in health care management from Saint Leo University, further demonstrating his commitment to the field.
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Dr. Galo Alava: Dr. Alava is an Assistant Professor of Healthcare Management at University Campus, with Saint Leo since 2004. He holds a medical degree and a Master’s in Healthcare. His professional experience includes roles as a Medical Examiner and in surgical technology program leadership. Dr. Alava’s interests lie in quality assurance in healthcare, community prevention programs, and innovative teaching methods.
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Dr. Claudette Andrea: Dr. Andrea is an Assistant Professor based at Saint Leo’s South Hampton Roads Education Center. She holds a doctorate in Public Health and Epidemiology and a Master’s in Healthcare Management. Her experience includes working at major hospitals and teaching at several universities, bringing a strong academic and practical perspective to the program.
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Dr. Tasia Hilton: Dr. Hilton is based at Saint Leo’s Savannah Education Center. Her background is unique, with degrees in chemistry and medical technology, followed by a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from Ashford University and a PhD in health services administration. Dr. Hilton’s experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist and her teaching experience in healthcare administration provide valuable insights into both the clinical and managerial aspects of healthcare.
Alt text: Dr Tasia Hilton Saint Leo University Faculty Healthcare Administration Expert
Q: What distinguishes Saint Leo’s MBA in Health Care Management program from other similar programs, including those one might find when researching “ashford university masters health care programs”?
A: A key differentiator of our program is its strong emphasis on public health. While many MBA in Health Care Management programs focus primarily on internal healthcare facility management, Saint Leo’s program takes a broader perspective. We prepare students to consider not only the operations within a medical facility but also the health of the surrounding community. Understanding and addressing public health concepts is vital for making a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. This community-focused approach sets our program apart.
Furthermore, Saint Leo University is committed to providing a supportive and personalized online learning environment. We pride ourselves on offering exceptional one-on-one support from faculty and a low 7:1 instructor-to-student ratio. Students have direct access to their professors, including personal contact information for quick communication. Our faculty response time is typically within 24 hours, significantly faster than the 48-hour standard at many other universities, ensuring students receive timely guidance and support.
Q: What career paths are open to graduates of the MBA in Health Care Management program from Saint Leo University?
A: Graduating with this MBA opens doors to a wide array of leadership and management positions within the healthcare industry. Our graduates are well-prepared to pursue roles such as:
- Department Managers
- Department Administrators
- Chief Operating Officers
- Chief Executive Officers
The types of organizations where our graduates can find these positions are diverse and include:
- Health Insurance Companies
- Pharmaceutical Companies
- Hospitals
- Assisted Living Facilities
- Nursing Care Facilities
- Medical Offices and Complexes
- University Healthcare Systems
Q: How can prospective students find out more about the MBA in Health Care Management program at Saint Leo University?
A: I encourage anyone interested to reach out to me directly at [email protected]. You can also find detailed information about the program, curriculum, admission requirements, and more on the program page: program page. We are here to answer your questions and help you determine if Saint Leo’s MBA in Health Care Management is the right next step for your career aspirations.
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