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Educating future healthcare managers: meeting contemporary challenges
Donna M Cox1, Sharon B Buchbinder
1Healthcare Management Program, Department of Health Science, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252-0001, USA. dcox@towson.edu
The Journal of Health Administration Education
|June 18, 2005
Summary
Healthcare management university programs updated curricula based on employer needs. Analysis of Maryland healthcare employers identified key skills and knowledge for new hires, leading to program enhancements and continuous quality assessment.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management Education
- Curriculum Development
- Higher Education Administration
Background:
- University programs require dynamic curricula to maintain relevance and rigor.
- Healthcare management programs must align with evolving industry demands.
- Academic standards and skill development are crucial for graduates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze a healthcare management curriculum using employer-identified needs.
- To enhance the program through stronger ties with healthcare organizations.
- To establish a continuous quality assessment process for the revised curriculum.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a curriculum analysis for a healthcare management program.
- Collected data from a 1996 exploratory study of Maryland healthcare employers.
- Identified essential content areas, skills, and experiences for new undergraduate hires.
Main Results:
- Employer feedback highlighted critical knowledge and skills for entry-level positions.
- Formalized links with healthcare organizations were established.
- The program underwent significant curriculum revisions based on the analysis.
Conclusions:
- Curriculum updates ensure relevance and enhance graduate preparedness.
- Formalized industry partnerships strengthen academic programs.
- Ongoing assessment is vital for maintaining program quality and standards.