Exploring Healthcare Jobs With a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration
Acquiring a bachelor's degree in business administration can open doors to various healthcare roles, though the specific job opportunities depend largely on your specialization. Specializations such as Management, Marketing, Information Systems (IS), Accounting, Finance, or Business Economics can lead to different career pathways within the healthcare industry.
Management Roles
If your specialization aligns with healthcare management, you may qualify for positions such as an admissions clerk, which involves administrative tasks. For a more business-focused role, consider pursuing a position in the business side of a physician's practice. These roles often involve managing staff, budgets, and operations.
Accounting and Information Systems
A concentration in Accounting or Business Information Systems (IS) can lead to roles in billing, operations, or even supply chain management. With sufficient experience, you may transition into a job in human resources. Specialized knowledge in these areas is crucial, as healthcare organizations increasingly rely on accurate and efficient financial and operational systems.
Healthcare Specializations
To achieve a successful career in healthcare, it is often beneficial to specialize in one of the business disciplines, specifically related to healthcare management. A Master's program in Healthcare Management would be a valuable addition to your educational background. This specialization provides the necessary expertise to excel in the healthcare industry, often outperforming candidates with standard MBA degrees in traditional business management.
Optimal Career Path
The ideal career path would involve a mix of healthcare financial management, exposure to health law, and IT management. The healthcare industry is undergoing significant changes, including the widespread adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs) and a wave of consolidation. National for-profit hospital chains like Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) offer some of the best entry-level positions due to these changes.
Corporate Healthcare Roles
There are roles known as "suits" in the healthcare industry, often seen in corporate settings. These individuals, dressed in business attire, often work to cut costs and eliminate staff, leading to criticisms from healthcare professionals. While these roles require business acumen, they may not have the best reputation among clinical staff. However, they often command high salaries and can provide valuable insights into the business side of healthcare.
Conclusion
While a bachelor's degree in business administration can lead to a variety of healthcare jobs, it is important to specialize in healthcare-specific areas to succeed. A Master's degree in Healthcare Management, combined with a specialization in financial management, health law, and IT, can equip you with the skills needed to navigate the ever-changing healthcare landscape. Consider the role of a business professional in healthcare as a stepping stone to these specialized roles, understanding the impact of business acumen on the healthcare industry.