7 answers
Jenny
Student
Upper Darby, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
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Healthcare consulting career advice?
I am currently a consultanting analyst for the home health and hospice space. I want to be able to progress in this industry, what can be some lateral jobs moves I can make
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7 answers
Lisa Betterson
Healthcare Regulatory/Compliance Assurance
8
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Think about exploring opportunities in compliance healthcare consulting. There are numerous roles available and many of them involve working with hospitals and healthcare organizations. The salary range is also quite broad, starting from $70,000 and going up to $300,000. It's definitely worth considering for your career path.
Agree with Lisa - A lot of your skills are probably transferrable to large healthcare systems (think national brands) which would have more upward mobility options.
Brooke Buth
Anthony Darcovich
Healthcare strategy consultant
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
I think there is a ton of opportunity to leverage your experience in home and hospice healthcare consulting to the broader industry overall. Below are some suggestions specific to the US market given you've listed your location in Texas.
I would position your search in adjacent areas within healthcare and leverage your experience in one of the fastest growing segments of the industry (given patient preferences for home care and an increasing aging population, there is plenty of appetite from large healthcare providers across the value chain to understand the interplay with homecare and hospice). Many large payors and integrated hospital systems are exploring ways in which they can capture more of the patient journey and move high quality care interactions to lower sites of care - home care is especially attractive in this regard. You can position yourself as an expert on this segment and outline your experience as relevant for managing complex patient populations. Depending on the specific types of projects you've worked on in the past, you could also position yourself as an authority on how to navigate the complex payment landscape - which varies by state given Medicaid requirements and across national payors given private insurers and how Medicare structures reimbursement for specific services. With recent developments in Medicare Advantage, it could be worthwhile to explore open positions with large payors who operate in this space. It could also make sense to explore federal, state, and local entities that are designing strategies to best serve their communities across homecare vs. institutionalized care. Your experience could provide helpful input as they design these strategies, evaluate current service offerings, and implement additional programs to serve specific populations (e.g., older adults, Medicaid recipients, etc.).
In sum, I think you can position your search across:
- Providers (incl. additional homecare and hospice providers, but also large hospital systems looking for your specific expertise in these subsectors)
- Payors (especially Medicare Advantage and private insurers who are dealing with managing populations with increasing number and intensity of conditions / comorbidities)
- Public entities (that are defining their long-term strategies on what services should be delivered in the institutionalized, community, and home settings given evolving population trends)
I would position your search in adjacent areas within healthcare and leverage your experience in one of the fastest growing segments of the industry (given patient preferences for home care and an increasing aging population, there is plenty of appetite from large healthcare providers across the value chain to understand the interplay with homecare and hospice). Many large payors and integrated hospital systems are exploring ways in which they can capture more of the patient journey and move high quality care interactions to lower sites of care - home care is especially attractive in this regard. You can position yourself as an expert on this segment and outline your experience as relevant for managing complex patient populations. Depending on the specific types of projects you've worked on in the past, you could also position yourself as an authority on how to navigate the complex payment landscape - which varies by state given Medicaid requirements and across national payors given private insurers and how Medicare structures reimbursement for specific services. With recent developments in Medicare Advantage, it could be worthwhile to explore open positions with large payors who operate in this space. It could also make sense to explore federal, state, and local entities that are designing strategies to best serve their communities across homecare vs. institutionalized care. Your experience could provide helpful input as they design these strategies, evaluate current service offerings, and implement additional programs to serve specific populations (e.g., older adults, Medicaid recipients, etc.).
In sum, I think you can position your search across:
- Providers (incl. additional homecare and hospice providers, but also large hospital systems looking for your specific expertise in these subsectors)
- Payors (especially Medicare Advantage and private insurers who are dealing with managing populations with increasing number and intensity of conditions / comorbidities)
- Public entities (that are defining their long-term strategies on what services should be delivered in the institutionalized, community, and home settings given evolving population trends)
Camille Lewis
Consultant
2
Answers
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Camille’s Answer
Hi Jenny! As a consulting analyst in the home health and hospice space, you have a solid foundation in healthcare. To progress in this industry, you can consider lateral moves into various sectors such as the pharmaceutical life sciences (PLS) space, the payer space, or the provider space. Each of these sectors offers unique opportunities and experiences that can broaden your expertise and open up new career pathways.
The Pharmaceutical Life Sciences (PLS) sector encompasses pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, and medical device manufacturers. This sector focuses on the development, production, and marketing of medications, therapies, and medical devices. Roles you might consider include Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Clinical Research Associate, Medical Science Liaison, Product Manager, or Market Access Analyst. Developing skills in regulatory requirements, clinical trial processes, pharmacovigilance, market access strategies, and product lifecycle management will be essential.
The payer space includes health insurance companies, managed care organizations, and government healthcare programs, focusing on the financing and reimbursement of healthcare services. Potential roles include Health Economist, Actuarial Analyst, Policy Analyst, Network Contracting Manager, or Utilization Management Specialist. Key skills in this sector involve health economics, actuarial science, insurance claims processing, health policy, and provider contract negotiations.
The provider space includes hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare providers, focusing on the delivery of patient care and clinical services. Consider roles such as Hospital Administrator, Practice Manager, Healthcare Consultant, Quality Improvement Specialist, or Health Information Manager. Essential skills include healthcare operations, quality and performance improvement, patient safety, healthcare IT systems, and revenue cycle management.
To facilitate your transition, leverage your consulting expertise and analytical skills, which are highly transferable to these sectors. Expand your knowledge through courses or certifications related to your target sector, available on platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning. Actively network with professionals in your desired sector through LinkedIn, industry associations, and networking events. Tailor your resume to emphasize relevant experience and skills that align with the roles you're targeting. By exploring these lateral moves, you can gain diverse experiences and build a robust skill set that will help you progress in the healthcare industry. Good luck with your career journey!
The Pharmaceutical Life Sciences (PLS) sector encompasses pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, and medical device manufacturers. This sector focuses on the development, production, and marketing of medications, therapies, and medical devices. Roles you might consider include Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Clinical Research Associate, Medical Science Liaison, Product Manager, or Market Access Analyst. Developing skills in regulatory requirements, clinical trial processes, pharmacovigilance, market access strategies, and product lifecycle management will be essential.
The payer space includes health insurance companies, managed care organizations, and government healthcare programs, focusing on the financing and reimbursement of healthcare services. Potential roles include Health Economist, Actuarial Analyst, Policy Analyst, Network Contracting Manager, or Utilization Management Specialist. Key skills in this sector involve health economics, actuarial science, insurance claims processing, health policy, and provider contract negotiations.
The provider space includes hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare providers, focusing on the delivery of patient care and clinical services. Consider roles such as Hospital Administrator, Practice Manager, Healthcare Consultant, Quality Improvement Specialist, or Health Information Manager. Essential skills include healthcare operations, quality and performance improvement, patient safety, healthcare IT systems, and revenue cycle management.
To facilitate your transition, leverage your consulting expertise and analytical skills, which are highly transferable to these sectors. Expand your knowledge through courses or certifications related to your target sector, available on platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning. Actively network with professionals in your desired sector through LinkedIn, industry associations, and networking events. Tailor your resume to emphasize relevant experience and skills that align with the roles you're targeting. By exploring these lateral moves, you can gain diverse experiences and build a robust skill set that will help you progress in the healthcare industry. Good luck with your career journey!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jenny!
Career Progression in Healthcare Consulting
As a consulting analyst in the home health and hospice sector, you are already positioned within a specialized and growing field. To progress in your career, consider the following lateral job moves and strategies that can enhance your skill set and open new opportunities:
1. Explore Different Roles Within Healthcare Consulting
Senior Consultant or Associate Consultant: Transitioning to a senior consultant role can provide you with more responsibilities, including leading projects, managing client relationships, and mentoring junior analysts. This move often requires demonstrating strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of healthcare regulations and market dynamics.
Project Manager: If you enjoy overseeing project timelines, budgets, and team dynamics, moving into a project management position could be beneficial. This role would allow you to develop leadership skills while still being involved in healthcare consulting.
Specialist Roles: Consider specializing further within the home health or hospice sectors. Positions such as Clinical Consultant or Regulatory Affairs Specialist can leverage your existing knowledge while allowing you to deepen your expertise.
2. Transition to Related Sectors
Healthcare Operations Management: Moving into operations management within healthcare organizations can provide insight into the practical applications of consulting recommendations. This role involves overseeing daily operations, improving efficiency, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Policy Analyst or Advisor: If you have an interest in healthcare policy, transitioning to a role focused on policy analysis can be rewarding. This position typically involves researching healthcare legislation and its implications for home health and hospice services.
Quality Improvement Coordinator: Focusing on quality improvement initiatives within healthcare organizations allows you to apply your analytical skills towards enhancing patient care standards and operational efficiencies.
3. Expand Your Skill Set
Certifications: Obtaining relevant certifications such as Certified Healthcare Consultant (CHC) or Project Management Professional (PMP) can enhance your credentials and make you more competitive for advanced roles.
Advanced Education: Consider pursuing further education like a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH) or Healthcare Administration (MHA). These degrees can provide broader knowledge of the healthcare system and prepare you for higher-level positions.
4. Networking Opportunities
Professional Associations: Join organizations such as the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) or the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). Networking through these associations can lead to mentorship opportunities and job openings.
Conferences & Workshops: Attend industry conferences focused on home health care or hospice services. Engaging with thought leaders in these settings can provide insights into emerging trends and potential job opportunities.
5. Seek Mentorship
Finding a mentor who has experience in higher-level consulting roles or related fields can offer guidance tailored to your career aspirations. A mentor can help navigate challenges, provide feedback on career moves, and introduce you to valuable contacts within the industry.
Conclusion
By considering these lateral moves within healthcare consulting, expanding your skill set through certifications or advanced education, networking effectively, and seeking mentorship opportunities, you will be well-positioned to progress in your career within the home health and hospice space.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used
American College of Healthcare Executives
National Association for Home Care & Hospice
Harvard Business Review - Career Development Articles
God Bless You!
JC.
Career Progression in Healthcare Consulting
As a consulting analyst in the home health and hospice sector, you are already positioned within a specialized and growing field. To progress in your career, consider the following lateral job moves and strategies that can enhance your skill set and open new opportunities:
1. Explore Different Roles Within Healthcare Consulting
Senior Consultant or Associate Consultant: Transitioning to a senior consultant role can provide you with more responsibilities, including leading projects, managing client relationships, and mentoring junior analysts. This move often requires demonstrating strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of healthcare regulations and market dynamics.
Project Manager: If you enjoy overseeing project timelines, budgets, and team dynamics, moving into a project management position could be beneficial. This role would allow you to develop leadership skills while still being involved in healthcare consulting.
Specialist Roles: Consider specializing further within the home health or hospice sectors. Positions such as Clinical Consultant or Regulatory Affairs Specialist can leverage your existing knowledge while allowing you to deepen your expertise.
2. Transition to Related Sectors
Healthcare Operations Management: Moving into operations management within healthcare organizations can provide insight into the practical applications of consulting recommendations. This role involves overseeing daily operations, improving efficiency, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Policy Analyst or Advisor: If you have an interest in healthcare policy, transitioning to a role focused on policy analysis can be rewarding. This position typically involves researching healthcare legislation and its implications for home health and hospice services.
Quality Improvement Coordinator: Focusing on quality improvement initiatives within healthcare organizations allows you to apply your analytical skills towards enhancing patient care standards and operational efficiencies.
3. Expand Your Skill Set
Certifications: Obtaining relevant certifications such as Certified Healthcare Consultant (CHC) or Project Management Professional (PMP) can enhance your credentials and make you more competitive for advanced roles.
Advanced Education: Consider pursuing further education like a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH) or Healthcare Administration (MHA). These degrees can provide broader knowledge of the healthcare system and prepare you for higher-level positions.
4. Networking Opportunities
Professional Associations: Join organizations such as the National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) or the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). Networking through these associations can lead to mentorship opportunities and job openings.
Conferences & Workshops: Attend industry conferences focused on home health care or hospice services. Engaging with thought leaders in these settings can provide insights into emerging trends and potential job opportunities.
5. Seek Mentorship
Finding a mentor who has experience in higher-level consulting roles or related fields can offer guidance tailored to your career aspirations. A mentor can help navigate challenges, provide feedback on career moves, and introduce you to valuable contacts within the industry.
Conclusion
By considering these lateral moves within healthcare consulting, expanding your skill set through certifications or advanced education, networking effectively, and seeking mentorship opportunities, you will be well-positioned to progress in your career within the home health and hospice space.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used
American College of Healthcare Executives
National Association for Home Care & Hospice
Harvard Business Review - Career Development Articles
God Bless You!
JC.
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Jenny
Elaine Purdy
Healthcare administrator and professor at univeristy for healthcare administration undergraduate and graduate level
9
Answers
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Updated
Elaine’s Answer
Hello,
You are fortunate to have the first reply from Mr. Frangos - his comprehensive response is on target and provides you with career progression steps and resources. The PMP certification is highly valued and is available online from universities and outside vendors.
Your skill of data analysis is definitely an added value if you decide to leave consulting and work in healthcare operations. Healthcare has a "large" warehouse of information and with more use of AI , facilities and providers are able to advantage higher levels of data analysis for care and treatment as well as for monitoring prevention and education outcomes for patients.
Good luck with your personal development and career progression,
Dr. Purdy
You are fortunate to have the first reply from Mr. Frangos - his comprehensive response is on target and provides you with career progression steps and resources. The PMP certification is highly valued and is available online from universities and outside vendors.
Your skill of data analysis is definitely an added value if you decide to leave consulting and work in healthcare operations. Healthcare has a "large" warehouse of information and with more use of AI , facilities and providers are able to advantage higher levels of data analysis for care and treatment as well as for monitoring prevention and education outcomes for patients.
Good luck with your personal development and career progression,
Dr. Purdy
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Jenny
Devin Clark
Compliance Consultant
2
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Devin’s Answer
Hi! Responding from the Philly area (where I see you're located!). If you are interested in healthcare consulting outside of home health and hospice, you could consider entering into the pharmaceutical / medical device / life sciences space (either consulting or into industry) where certain companies may focus more on devices / products that tie more into the home health / hospice space if that is a passion!
Jayne Hoagbin
Risk Consultant
4
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Jayne’s Answer
Think about the specific kind of consulting and the sector within the healthcare industry you'd like to transition into. Different firms offer various healthcare consulting opportunities. These can range from risk and compliance, business controls and internal auditing, to strategy, human resources, and management consulting, among others. I'd advise you to connect with professionals on LinkedIn who are employed in healthcare organizations with internal consulting opportunities or consulting firms. Find those whose career paths resemble yours or who have job duties that you find appealing.