Healthcare administration fellowships offer a unique pathway for aspiring leaders to gain comprehensive experience in the field. Ashley Sekul’s journey from biochemistry to healthcare administration exemplifies how diverse experiences can shape a successful career path. Her story provides valuable insights for those considering a similar trajectory.

From Biochemistry to Healthcare Administration Fellowship

Ashley’s academic journey began at the University of Mississippi, where she pursued a degree in Biochemistry with a minor in Journalism. This combination of scientific rigor and communication skills laid the foundation for her future career in healthcare administration. Initially on a pre-med track, Ashley’s perspective shifted during her time as a scribe for a radiation oncologist in Dallas, Texas.

Working in a clinical setting provided Ashley with valuable insights into the healthcare industry. It was during this experience that she realized her passion lay not in practicing medicine, but in the administrative aspects of healthcare. This realization prompted her to pursue a Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) at George Washington University.

Diverse Healthcare Experiences Shape a Career Path

Ashley’s time in Washington D.C. proved instrumental in broadening her understanding of the healthcare landscape. She gained experience through various internships and fellowships:

(1) Communications internships with health IT companies and the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI)

(2) Health policy fellowship at Leavitt Partners

(3) Engagement Awards internship at PCORI

These experiences allowed Ashley to explore different facets of healthcare, from policy and research to communications and patient engagement. This diverse background has proven invaluable in her current role as an administrative fellow at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

MD Anderson Administrative Fellowship: A Comprehensive Learning Experience

The administrative fellowship at MD Anderson offers Ashley a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in various areas of healthcare administration. The program’s structure allows fellows to rotate through different departments, providing a holistic view of hospital operations.

Ashley’s upcoming concentration in Enterprise Risk Management will focus on pharmaceutical pricing and supply chain costs. This project aligns with her previous experience in health policy and her interest in research, demonstrating how fellowships can build upon existing skills while developing new ones.

Healthcare Research and Publishing: A Path to Industry Impact

Throughout her career, Ashley has recognized the importance of research and publishing in healthcare administration. Her publications include:

(1) A neuroscience paper from her undergraduate honors thesis

(2) An article with PCORI

(3) Contributions to a 340B drug pricing paper

(4) A white paper for CAHME, an accrediting board for MHA programs

Ashley emphasizes the value of sharing knowledge through writing, whether in academic publications or personal blogs. This commitment to continuous learning and knowledge dissemination is a key attribute for aspiring healthcare leaders.

Building a Successful Career in Healthcare Administration

Ashley’s journey highlights several key factors for success in healthcare administration:

(1) Embracing diverse experiences to gain a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape

(2) Pursuing fellowships to gain hands-on experience and exposure to various aspects of healthcare administration

(3) Engaging in research and publishing to contribute to the field and establish expertise

(4) Maintaining a balance between professional development and personal interests

(5) Networking and involvement in professional organizations, such as the National Administrative Fellowship Network

For those considering a career in healthcare administration, Ashley’s story demonstrates the importance of remaining open to new opportunities and continuously seeking knowledge in this dynamic field.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a healthcare administration fellowship?

A healthcare administration fellowship is a structured program that provides recent graduates or early-career professionals with hands-on experience in various aspects of healthcare management. These programs typically last 1-2 years and offer rotations through different departments within a healthcare organization.

How can an MHA program benefit someone transitioning from a clinical background?

An MHA program provides a comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems, policy, finance, and management. For those with a clinical background, it offers the business and administrative skills necessary to transition into leadership roles within healthcare organizations.

What are the advantages of pursuing diverse internships in healthcare?

Diverse internships expose individuals to various aspects of the healthcare industry, including policy, research, and administration. This broad experience helps in developing a well-rounded skill set and can inform career decisions by providing insight into different potential career paths.

How important is publishing in healthcare administration?

Publishing in healthcare administration is valuable for sharing knowledge, establishing expertise, and contributing to the field’s body of knowledge. It can enhance an individual’s professional reputation and create opportunities for collaboration and career advancement.

What skills are essential for success in healthcare administration?

Essential skills for success in healthcare administration include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, leadership capabilities, adaptability, and a deep understanding of healthcare systems and policies. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends are also crucial.