If you’re still trying to decide whether going back to school is the right choice for you, you may wish to consider the specific positions that you could pursue after graduation. Some DHA career possibilities are as follows:
Enhancements in information technology (IT) are the future of healthcare administration, and there are no healthcare organizations in which secure, well-organized and accessible health records are not crucial. If you’re passionate about IT and information management, you might consider earning your doctorate and pursuing a career as a health information manager.
These professionals are charged with staying on top of the latest regulatory requirements regarding patient information. They must ensure that all patient records, as well as the technology platform itself, are in full compliance with these regulations. Only authorized individuals are allowed to access the sensitive information found in patients’ health records.
Healthcare facilities range from smaller community hospitals to large health systems with multiple buildings over sprawling campuses. It takes a great deal of work to keep these facilities fully operational, which is the job of the facilities manager.
A facilities manager is responsible for operations, maintenance and security. They may do anything from overseeing the planning and construction of new buildings to ensuring compliance with regulatory standards to performing fire safety assessments. Workplace safety, cleanliness standards and compliance are important components of the job.
Nursing homes care for some of the most vulnerable people in society, so maintaining high levels of patient care and cultivating a positive, supportive environment are crucial. The nursing home manager is a healthcare administrator who is tasked with maintaining excellent patient care and safety standards.
Nursing home managers oversee daily operations, manage the facility’s finances and routinely review new healthcare regulations to ensure compliance. The manager also oversees the nursing home’s staff, navigating challenges like staff turnover,4 training needs and staff burnout.
Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare administrators, are responsible for planning and directing the operations of a clinical area or department or an entire healthcare facility. They are charged with ensuring their department or facility remains in compliance with changing healthcare regulations.
A health services manager also typically manages the budget, supervises staff members and keeps records organized. They establish the policies and procedures for the facility and develop reports as needed.