How to Become a Health Services Manager in 2025
What Does a Health Services Manager Do?
Health services managers, sometimes called healthcare administrators or executives, are the people who plan, direct, and coordinate medical and health services. They might manage an entire facility, a specific clinical area, or a department. These professionals work behind the scenes to make sure healthcare facilities operate smoothly and efficiently. This role appeals to many because it combines leadership skills with a desire to positively impact people's health and well-being, without directly providing clinical care.
At a high level, a health services manager makes decisions about things like staffing, budgeting, and overall strategy for a medical facility. Their responsibilities often include developing and implementing policies, managing finances, recruiting and training staff, and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations. A key definition to remember is efficiency because these managers look for ways to streamline processes and reduce costs, without compromising the quality of patient care.
The scope of responsibilities can vary greatly depending on the size and type of organization. For example, a health services manager in a small clinic might handle a wider range of tasks, from ordering supplies to scheduling appointments, while a manager in a large hospital might focus on a specific area like surgery or rehabilitation. Regardless of the setting, their main objective is to improve the delivery of healthcare services. You can explore healthcare management roles further with professional organizations like the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Health Services Manager Educational & Certification Requirements
A career as a Health Services Manager offers opportunities to impact patient care and healthcare organization efficiency. Starting this career path typically involves specific educational preparation and, in some cases, professional certifications. Let's explore these requirements.
The foundation for many Health Services Manager roles is a bachelor's degree. While a specific major like "Health Services Management" is helpful, degrees in related areas such as business administration, public health, or healthcare administration can also be excellent starting points. These programs equip individuals with the core knowledge of healthcare systems, management principles, and relevant regulations. Coursework often includes healthcare finance, policy, organizational behavior, and data analysis.
A master's degree often provides a competitive advantage, especially for advancement into leadership positions. Common graduate degrees include a Master of Health Administration (MHA), Master of Public Health (MPH), or Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a healthcare focus. These programs offer specialized training in areas such as strategic planning, healthcare economics, and quality improvement.
Beyond formal education, professional certifications can demonstrate competence and commitment to the field. Several organizations offer certifications for healthcare managers. The Professional Association of Health Care Office Management provides information about certifications for health office managers. The American College of Healthcare Executives also offers a path to become board certified in healthcare management (Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives - FACHE), showing a high level of achievement. Requirements for these certifications usually include a combination of education, experience, and passing an examination.
While not always required, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions in healthcare settings is valuable. This hands-on experience helps develop skills in areas such as communication, problem-solving, and team leadership, further preparing individuals for the responsibilities of a Health Services Manager.
Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming a Health Services Manager
The field of health services management offers a great opportunity to combine leadership skills with a desire to contribute to the well-being of communities. If you're considering a career in this area, here's a practical guide on how to make it happen.
1. Solid Educational Foundation: The first step typically involves earning a bachelor's degree. While a degree in healthcare administration or public health is beneficial, other related fields like business administration, nursing, or even social work can also provide a strong starting point. Choose a program that includes coursework in management principles, healthcare policy, finance, and communications.
2. Gain Practical Experience: Most health services management positions require prior experience in a healthcare setting. This could involve entry-level roles such as administrative assistant, medical secretary, or even direct patient care positions. Look for opportunities to work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or public health departments. These roles allow you to become familiar with the healthcare system and develop relevant skills.
3. Consider a Master's Degree: While a bachelor's degree can get you started, a master's degree often becomes necessary for career advancement and higher-level management positions. A Master of Health Administration (MHA) or Master of Public Health (MPH) with a concentration in management are common choices. These programs provide in-depth knowledge of healthcare management principles, leadership strategies, and healthcare policy. Look at CAHME accredited programs to make sure you get the best education.
4. Obtain Certifications (Optional but Recommended): Several certifications can enhance your credentials and demonstrate your expertise. For example, the Certified Professional in Healthcare Management (CPHM) can show dedication and specialized skills. Investigating certification options shows commitment to the profession.
5. Develop Key Skills: Success in health services management depends on a specific set of skills. Strong communication, leadership, problem-solving, and analytical abilities are all essential. Focus on improving these skills through coursework, professional development opportunities, and on-the-job experiences. Mentorship can also be beneficial.
6. Network and Seek Opportunities: Networking within the healthcare industry can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations like the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), and connect with healthcare professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Informational interviews and shadowing experiences can also provide valuable insights.
7. Build Your Resume: Showcase your education, experience, skills, and certifications in a well-written resume. Highlight accomplishments and quantify your contributions whenever possible. Tailor your resume to each specific job application, emphasizing the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position.
8. Prepare for Interviews: Practice answering common interview questions and be prepared to discuss your experience, skills, and career goals. Research the organization and the specific position to demonstrate your interest and knowledge. Ask thoughtful questions to show engagement and learn more about the role.
9. Stay Current: The healthcare industry is constantly changing, so it's critical to stay informed about new regulations, technologies, and best practices. Read industry publications, attend continuing education courses, and participate in professional development activities to keep your knowledge and skills up-to-date.
How To Network As a Health Services Manager
Networking is very important for career advancement as a health services manager. Building and maintaining connections with other professionals can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and help you stay current with industry trends. This section will offer some strategies for building your professional network and using those connections to help you achieve your career goals.
One great way to build a network is through internships and volunteer work. These experiences allow you to meet professionals already working in the field, learn from their expertise, and demonstrate your skills and commitment to potential employers. Look for internships at hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or public health organizations. Even if a formal internship isn't available, consider volunteering your time. This shows initiative and provides similar networking opportunities.
Attending industry conferences and workshops is another effective way to connect with other health services managers. These events offer a chance to hear from experts, learn about new technologies and best practices, and meet peers from across the country. Many organizations, such as the American Public Health Association (APHA) at https://www.apha.org/, host conferences that are great for learning and making connections.
Continuing education plays a vital role in both building expertise and your network. Consider earning certifications or taking courses relevant to health services management. These programs often bring together professionals from various organizations, creating opportunities for collaboration and networking. They also signal to current and future employers your dedication to professional development.
Finally, don't underestimate the value of online networking platforms like LinkedIn. Create a professional profile, join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and connect with people in your field. Regularly engaging online will help you build your professional presence and stay connected. Actively reaching out to people you find interesting in your profession will also improve your network.
Actionable Tips & Resources For Aspiring Health Services Managers In 2025
Becoming a Health Services Manager requires careful planning and preparation. The field is growing, and those who position themselves well have the best chance of success. This section offers practical steps and resources to help you prepare for a career as a Health Services Manager in 2025.
Step 1: Education is Key. A bachelor's degree is often the minimum requirement, but a master's degree in health administration (MHA), public health (MPH), or a related field can give you a significant advantage. Look for programs accredited by organizations like the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). Visit their website to explore accredited programs: https://www.cahme.org/
Step 2: Gain Practical Experience. Classroom learning is good, but real-world experience is invaluable. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, or entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or other healthcare settings. Even a seemingly unrelated job in a healthcare office can give you exposure to the industry and help you build important skills.
Step 3: Develop Essential Skills. Health Services Managers need a combination of technical and soft skills. Some of these skills include:
- Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively with staff, patients, and other stakeholders.
- Leadership: Motivate and guide teams to achieve organizational goals.
- Analytical Skills: Analyze data to identify trends, solve problems, and make informed decisions.
- Financial Management: Understand healthcare finance and budgeting principles.
- Technology: Be comfortable using electronic health records (EHRs) and other healthcare technologies.
Step 4: Consider Certifications. While not always required, certifications can demonstrate your competence and enhance your career prospects. Examples include Certified Medical Manager (CMM) or similar credentials offered by professional organizations.
Step 5: Network with Professionals. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations such as the American Public Health Association, https://www.apha.org/, and connect with Health Services Managers on LinkedIn. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable insights into the profession.
Step 6: Stay Up-To-Date on Industry Trends. Healthcare is a field that is constantly changing. Be sure to keep up with new regulations, technologies, and best practices by reading industry publications, attending webinars, and participating in continuing education programs. Look for resources from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/.