I love health care for what it offers, where it’s going and the potential of where we can take it.
I have worked in health care for just over 14 years. Most recently, I was National Operations Manager for a private health care company. Before this, I held a variety of roles in a number of different industries; from publications in the fashion industry to business development roles in a company that was ranked No. 1 in North America for service delivery and customer service. Working in such diverse roles instilled in me high standards of customer service and a strong work ethic where I also learned how to manage people and earn their respect. These are traits I have carried throughout my career.
I left school with the intention of going to university, but work got the better of me. 27 years later, with two teenage children and a husband in tow, I am now a full-time university student for the first time!
As cliché as it sounds, I love health care for what it offers, where it’s going and the potential of where we can take it. Likewise, my absolute passion is fixing existing, or implementing new systems, processes or procedures; seeing that end result is so satisfying!
I was inspired to study the Master of Health Services Management because of a colleague of mine. He encouraged me to take the leap, even though I was so concerned with the ‘what ifs’. However, I’m so grateful that I did.
I was drawn to the Master of Health Service Management at UTS because it offered a new major, Health Law, Ethics and Governance. I was excited when I read about it – and I’m super excited to be learning about it!
The new major appealed to me because it is extremely relevant to healthcare today. It’s ideal for operations, management and even private practitioners. There are so many regulations, policies and governance guidelines to follow in health care, so to be able to add law to that mix, is so beneficial.
The most rewarding aspect of the course has been the variety of students in my classes. I’m in classes with colleagues who I would work alongside in health care, but I’m also in classes with engineers, construction project managers and law students! It’s so fascinating to pull everyone’s experiences together. Gaining HD’s in all my subjects is a bonus!
I have definitely developed during my studies. I’ve learned to be more patient. I’ve gained a more balanced understanding that, in order to execute projects or work of any kind, while efficiency is key, taking the time to properly investigate, research and prepare is so valuable in providing quality and success.
The initial goal of studying was to learn the background and operations of a health care space that I hadn’t experienced before. I have been fortunate to have this happen and it’s opened my eyes to other areas where I can apply my skills. I plan on doing a Graduate Certificate next year and hope to work in a company who look at change as a positive and inspire their staff by walking the walk.
For anyone who is considering a Master of Health Services Management, my advice is this – do it because you want to do it. Do it because you’re passionate about the content. Do it because you truly want to learn.