Healthcare executives have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to improving the health of the citizens in the communities they serve, and the opportunity to work in literally tens of thousands of health services organizations throughout the U.S. and the world. Career options for healthcare professionals have never been more diverse – or more exciting. For example, in the provider segment, healthcare managers are in leadership roles in hospitals, physician group practices, nursing homes, and home health agencies. In the insurance segment, insurance companies and HMOs are experiencing tremendous growth.
Graduates are also offered positions in the supplier segment for companies that make disposable supplies and equipment, pharmaceutical companies, and consulting firms. Finally, the increasing role of government in healthcare translates into more significant and more plentiful policy positions. Graduates may work for state health departments, private foundations, federal programs, or national associations, such as the Red Cross or the American Hospital Association.
Entry-level jobs vary in terms of the graduate’s interest, skills and experience. Upon graduation, many graduates select either line management positions with staff supervision responsibilities - such as the Director of Admitting in a hospital - or staff positions - such as a Managed Care Analyst, Consultant, or Sales.
*Median annual earnings of health services managers were $84,270 in 2010. The lowest 10 percent earned less that $51,280, and the highest 10 percent earned more that $144,880. *Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.