Medical managers may be responsible for managing the finances and budget of their facility or department.
Medical managers, sometimes known as health care administrators or health care executives, oversee and direct various functions at health care facilities to ensure that patients receive necessary health care services. They are employed by hospitals, nursing homes, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), home health care agencies, outpatient facilities, private group practices and other health care facilities. Some medical managers function in a clinical capacity and play a direct role in the delivery of health care services, while others work in a non-clinical role and oversee the administrative functions of the facility. A career as a medical manager is good for those who are interested in the health care field and possess strong business management skills as well.
Duties
Medical managers may function as general administrators and oversee an entire hospital or health care facility, or they may specialize in a certain area, such as surgery, therapy, medical records or nursing. Medical managers who work as general administrators usually oversee all aspects of daily operations. This may include: supervising staff; overseeing facility admissions; and monitoring finances and facility operations. Medical managers who function in a clinical capacity usually have specific duties to fulfill as well, such as physical therapy managers who must also be trained physical therapists. Clinical medical managers are also responsible for developing departmental policies and goals, assessing employees’ work performance and planning budgets. Non-clinical managers may be responsible for overseeing functions not directly related to health care, such as human resources, financial management and housekeeping. Medical managers who work in the health information field must maintain patient records and ensure that all necessary security measures are taken.
Education
Most medical managers are required to have a master’s degree, though some smaller hospitals or health care facilities may employ managers with a bachelor’s degree. Candidates usually earn a master’s degree in health service administration, public administration, business administration, health sciences or public health. Those interested in a career in medical management should be sure to choose a college or university that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education to ensure that the program meets professional standards in the field. Previous professional experience in health care is helpful for medical manager candidates as well. In addition, medical managers who work in nursing care facilities are required to be licensed. They must complete an approved education program, successfully complete a licensing exam and participate in continuing education courses.
Working Conditions
Many medical managers work in private offices, while others must share workspace with other staff. They are often required to work long hours because hospitals and nursing facilities are open 24 hours a day, and they may be called at any time should an emergency occur. In addition, medical managers are sometimes required to travel to meetings or to examine satellite offices.
Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wages for medical and health service managers were $80,240 as of May 2008. The highest 10 percent were paid more than $137,800, while the lowest 10 percent were paid less than $48,300. The middle 50 percent were paid between $62,170 and $104,120. Salaries vary based on the size and type of facility. General medical and surgical hospitals were the highest paying employers for medical managers, with median annual wages of $87,040.
Employment Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment for medical and health services managers will increase by 16 percent between 2008 and 2018, which is a faster rate than average. Candidates with experience in the health care field and training in business management should enjoy the best prospects. In addition, large hospitals should offer the best opportunities for medical managers as their size and complexity typically require large managerial staffs.
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