The U.S health system is being impacted by shifting demographics, advances in medicine and technology, big data, and rapidly evolving payment models that are reshaping incentives for consumers and moving accountability for value directly to those providing care-physicians, hospitals and health systems. This course immerses the student in the challenges, issues, culture, and competencies required to successfully lead a health system, a vast majority of which are non-profit. Creating a compelling vision, aligning hospitals and physicians, responding to the new payment environment, negotiating merger and acquisitions, partnering with others to accelerate innovation, and fostering an environment with values are among the topics that will be covered through the lens of health system leadership.

The course draws upon the faculty leader's extensive experience in leading health systems and a career-long commitment to teaching and health policy. Supported by pre-class reading and brief videos, the classroom will present issues and cases in which the faculty has been directly involved. Brief breakout sessions will generate dialogue, debate, and recommendations that require critical thinking at both a strategic and operational level. The deliverables include two group and two individual assignments. The course is ideal for students considering a career in a health system or for those whose career will require a greater understanding of what is required to successfully partner with or even compete with a health system.

A basic understanding of the health care industry is suggested but not required. Please note: STRT-443 Healthcare Strategy OR STRT-444 Healthcare Economics are STRONGLY recommended prerequisites for the class .