Beyond the Scrubs: 4 Career Paths in Healthcare Administration to Explore

When it comes to healthcare, most of us think about doctors and nurses. But have you ever wondered who runs the show behind the scenes? Healthcare administration is a booming field with opportunities that often fly under the radar. Whether you’re passionate about technology, management, or problem-solving, there’s a place for you in healthcare administration. Check out this video from Courtney Sharea who has worked in multiple areas of healthcare administration. 

Let’s dive into four rewarding career options you might not have considered:

  1. Hospital Administration and Management: This role goes beyond what meets the eye. Whether in a hospital or a smaller medical practice, administrators are the backbone of healthcare operations, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. From managing budgets to strategic planning, these professionals are responsible for the day-to-day business of healthcare facilities. While demanding, with roles sometimes requiring 50-70 hour work weeks, the rewards are substantial, both in terms of impact and salary. Learn more about hospital administration and management.
  2. Health Information Technology & Management: As healthcare becomes increasingly digital, there’s a growing demand for professionals who can manage and analyze health data. Health Information Technology (HIT) involves the systems that collect and organize this data, while Health Information Management (HIM) focuses on analyzing and protecting it. If you’re tech-savvy and detail-oriented, this could be your niche. Roles in this field include EMR Integrations Manager, Product Manager, and Health Information Data Analyst.  Learn more about health information technology and management.
  3. Revenue Cycle Management: This is the engine that drives healthcare’s financial health, tracking revenue from patient appointments to final payments. While medical billing and coding are well-known roles, revenue cycle management encompasses much more. It’s a great entry point into healthcare administration, with many roles not requiring a degree. However, for those aiming for higher positions, a bachelor’s degree is beneficial. Learn more about revenue cycle management.
  4. Healthcare Business Consulting: If you’re a natural problem solver, healthcare business consulting might be the path for you. Consultants identify areas for improvement and help healthcare organizations achieve their goals. You could specialize in anything from revenue cycle management to healthcare IT, HR, and beyond. This career offers both variety and the chance to make a significant impact on the business side of healthcare. Learn more about healthcare business consulting.

Healthcare administration offers diverse and rewarding careers that are essential to the functioning of healthcare systems. If you’re considering a career in this field, explore these paths and find the one that resonates with your strengths and interests. The opportunities are vast, and the impact you can make is profound.

This blog was created with the help of AI.

By Aly Novi
Aly Novi Assistant Director, Academic and Campus Partnerships