Portfolio
Health Care Administration Capstone Project
Master, Melinda
Saturday, December 02, 2017
Table of Contents
Healthcare Administration Capstone Portfolio
Introduction/Bio
Resume
Program Learning Outcomes
Program Core Learning Outcomes
Motivate and Facilitate Change
Analyze Data
Apply Management Theory and Practices
Resource Planning
Decision Making and Policy Planning
Effective Communication
Application of Ethical Standards/Social Responsibility
Specialization Learning Outcomes
Analyze Healthcare Problems
Evaluate Healthcare Delivery Systems
Interpret legal\ethical Issues
Strategic Integration
Concluding Remarks
Healthcare Administration Capstone Portfolio
Introduction
Welcome to my Health Care Administration Capstone Portfolio. I have been attending Polk State College for five years, as I began working towards achieving my Associate Degree of
Liberal Arts back in the Summer of 2012, and now since the Fall of 2016, I have continued working towards completing my Bachelors of Science Degree in Healthcare Administration.
Therefore, I am overjoyed that I am finally approaching the finish line. This portfolio includes the names of the courses I have taken, a brief description of each course, as well as the eleven
necessary outcomes that I needed to learn and master to complete this degree. In addition, I have enclosed eleven essays that explain how I met the objectives of this degree, as well as I have
provided many links to artifacts that show proof of the work that I have done to achieve my proficiency.
While compiling this portfolio, it allowed me to reflect on the challenging work and the deep commitment that I have put forth to finish this degree. I cannot help but be proud of my
accomplishments, as I have researched, studied, read, and wrote, and now it is all coming together for me to receive the payoffs. I am grateful that I have finally reached this milestone, as I have
been running this race for such a long time. I have learned so many new skills, have grasped so many new concepts, and have gained a considerable amount of confidence. This has been an
exhilarating experience and it has undoubtedly made me a much more professional and knowledgeable person. I cannot wait to put the new concepts I have learned to work in my future career.
I would like to say, “Thank you” and extend my gratitude and appreciation to God, to my husband, my mother, my children, my professors, my friends, and my colleagues, who have
been there to help me along this lengthy journey. I could not have succeeded without their support, especially my husbands. Please, enjoy the material I have composed, as I will be delighted and
obliged if anyone learns from just a portion of what I have shared.
Introduction/Bio
Melinda Master grew up in the suburbs of Southeastern Pennsylvania, in a small town called Colmar, which is fortyfive minutes north of Philadelphia. She has been married to her
husband, Michael, for twentyseven years and together they have raised five beautiful children, who have grown up and had children of their own. In her younger years, Melinda worked as an
assistant manager for three years at a retail store called Fluff ‘n Stuff. She then took a position at Prudential Insurance Company AARP processing claims for two years. While working at
Prudential, Melinda earned the opportunity to head a team for a program called Partners in Education. In this program, Prudential staff paired with Simmons Elementary school staff to help
children who were behind in their studies become more successful. It was through this experience, Melinda learned she was quite fond of teaching. When Melinda’s division closed, she started
working for the United States Postal Service as a rural carrier for two years. Then she began a career in school bus driving at First Student Transportation and she enjoyed it so much that she
stayed there for fifteen years. Melinda enjoyed the flexibility it gave her to raise her family and treasured the satisfaction it gave her to work with children. In between her runs, Melinda
homeschooled her five children, as well as she volunteered as a tutor for children attending Buxmont Educational Institute. She gained an immense satisfaction by giving of herself and helping
children to learn. After moving to Florida, Melinda began working as a cashier at WinnDixie but quickly moved to a more suitable job at Polk County Transit working as both a city and a para
transit driver. In her seven years with the county, she developed many positive relationships with many of her passengers and cherished that she was able to aid the administrative staff in the office
as well as offer services to the community. While at Polk County, she also began taking classes at Polk State College and she earned her Certified Nurses Aid license. She decided to put her new
skills to work by transferring to Polk County’s Rohr Home. However, over this past year and a half, to finish her degree faster, Melinda has only taken on parttime employment. Therefore, she
worked at Subway as a senior sandwich artist, and has recently taken on an internship position doing data analysis for Polk State College. Otherwise, Melinda has solely devoted her time to
studying.
Melinda graduated in 1987 from North Penn Senior High School in Lansdale, Pennsylvania and after she raised her family and moved to Florida, she returned to school. In 2012, she
began attending Polk State College in Winter Haven, Florida where she graduated with her Associate of Arts degree in 2016. Immediately following, in the Fall of 2016, Melinda continued her
education at Polk State College’s Lakeland campus to achieve her Bachelor of Applied Science in Healthcare Administration. She will graduate this December 2017. Melinda looks forward to a
career where she can use her newly learned management skills, and seeks to find a position that involves teaching, researching, or improving the lives of others.
Melinda is a hard worker who strives for excellence. She received Driver of the Year in 2000 at First Student for her commitment to safety and service for students. She received the
Peer Choice Award in 2010 at Polk County Transit because of her superior efforts as a team player and for providing quality service to citizens. She also received an award for Perfect
Attendance and received several Kudo Awards from her peers for aiding them when they needed help. In education, her diligence for excellence stands out as well. Melinda is both a member of
the Polk State College Honors Society and a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society as well. Furthermore, she has upheld a 4.0 GPA throughout all her bachelor’s degree classes, and
she has made the President’s List at Polk State college for both the 2016 Spring and Fall semesters. Additionally, Melinda has several appreciation awards from Simmons Elementary and
Buxmont Educational Institute for assisting children to succeed.
Melinda's favorite quote is “You might be poor, your shoes might be broken, but your mind is a palace” by Frank McCourt.
Resume
MELINDA J. MASTER
Lake Wales, FL ▪ (863) 353 9043 ▪ mmaster1@my.polk.edu
SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS
* Detail Oriented * Goal Minded * Critical Thinking Skills * Independent and team player * Excellent Customer Service Skills * Positive Attitude * Well Organized * Experienced in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
EDUCATION
Polk State College Winter Haven, FL 08/2016 Present Bachelors of Applied Sciences – BAS Healthcare Administration Expected graduation date – December 2017
Polk State College Winter Haven, FL 08/2012 – 08/2016 Associate of Arts Degree – AA Liberal Arts
HONORS/RECOGNITIONS
* Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society – 3.5 GPA
* Polk State College President’s List – Fall 2016; Spring 2017 – 4.0 GPA
* Polk County Shine Award 2011 Developing innovative ideas for W. H. Area Transit
* Polk County Peer Choice Award 2010
EXPERIENCE Polk State College Business Department – Lakeland, FL 05/2017 Present Internship Specialist
Data Analysis
Spreadsheets
Research and reports
Subway Restaurants Dundee, FL 01/2016 – 08/2016 Senior Sandwich Artist/Team Leader and Closer
Trained new hires
Provided excellent customer service
Completed management training course
Certified Food Safety Provider
Polk County Rohr Home Bartow, FL 08/2015 – 01/2016 Certified Nurses Aid
Provided total dependent level of care to 12 patients at the facility
Treated patients with dignity and compassion
Respected patient and family’s wishes when providing care
Followed all organizational rules and regulations
Polk County Transit Services (WHAT) Winter Haven, FL 07/2009 – 08/2015 Bus Driver/Office Assistant
Transported ambulatory and nonambulatory clients to adult day multipurpose centers, health clinics, rehabilitation centers, physicians’ offices, and shopping
centers
Drove passengers on a city bus to destinations along a designated city route
Assisted Managers with the processing and reconciliation of cash transactions and deposits
Handled administrative office duties including data entry of route hours and customer data logs
Held this position full time while attending school full time and earning academic honors
WinnDixie – Lake Wales, FL 02/2009 – 07/2009 Cashier
Processed customers’ transactions courteously and efficiently
Provided outstanding customer service
Accepted and processed all types of payment transactions according to company’s procedures
Balanced cash drawer at the close of the day
Assisted customers in locating specific store items
Stocked store shelves with new merchandise and helped maintain the store clean
First Student Transportation Services – Colmar, PA 01/1995 – 02/2009 School Bus Driver
Safely transported students to and from school in a timely manner
Provided friendly customer service to students, parents and teachers
Maintained order and safety on the bus at all times
Conducted pretrip and posttrip checks on a daily basis
Kept all report logs up to date as required
Trained new drivers on their routes as needed
Reported all bus malfunctions and required repairs when necessary
Used twoway radio communication to report road delays, accidents and other incidents
Resume 2017
Program Learning Outcomes
Program Learning Outcomes
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
ECO2013 PRINCIPLES OF MACROECONOMICS Fall 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course introduces the theory of national income determination and discusses monetary and fiscal policies. The curriculum examines basic
macroeconomic issues based on current economic information and theory. Topics include supply and demand, and the product market, as well as
international trade and payments, money and labor markets, aggregate supply and demand, and business cycles.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
GEB3213 ADVANCED COMMUNICATIONS IN BUSINESS Fall 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course provides a study of oral and written communication skills as applied to business settings. Topics include listening skills, verbal and
nonverbal messages, presentation skills, channels of communication, audience analyses, applied research techniques, and written skills in business
correspondence.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
MAN3240 ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR Fall 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course provides a study of individual and group behavior in organizations. Students develop skills and methods relating to effective organization
management. Course content includes the importance of group motivation, group dynamics, conflict resolution, goal setting and rewards; effective job
design; and factors related to work stress, power and politics, and organizational change and development in managing a successful organization
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
HSA3110 HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION & MANAGEMENT Fall 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course examines the organizational structure of healthcare organizations such as general hospitals, ambulatory facilities, HMOs, longterm care
facilities, and neighborhood health centers and the implications of the organizational structure of each for successful administration and management.
The course introduces healthcare delivery systems and provides an exploration of the implications of integrated delivery systems on the future of
healthcare in the United States.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
MAN3303 LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT PRACTICES Fall 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course incorporates leadership skill development as it relates to the core aspects of management practice. Emphasis is on developing a solid
leadership foundation while focusing on the demands and opportunities in a dynamic workplace. Discussion and application of leadership theories allow
for skill formation and development of leadership abilities.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
QMB3600 QUANTITATIVE METHODS IN BUSINESS Spring 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course addresses the use of research and quantitative methods in the business arena. Emphasis is placed on the utilization of research tools and
quantitative methods to effectively prepare for the interpretation of research data and participate in activities for decision making.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
HSA3170 HEALTH CARE ACCOUNTING & FINANCING Spring 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course provides general information regarding the principle financial mechanisms in the U.S. healthcare industry and the critical financial issues the
industry currently faces. The course provides students with a foundation in the use of financial tools, and the application of healthcare finances and
analyses within the healthcare system.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
HSA4553 LEGAL & ETHICAL HEALTH CARE ISSUES Spring 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course provides a survey of legal and ethical issues pertaining to healthcare administration. Topics include government regulation, medical liability,
the professionalpatient relationship, allocation of scarce resources, and endoflife decisions.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
HSA4502 HEALTH CARE RISK MANAGEMENT Spring 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course focuses on theories, concepts, and principles of healthcare risk management. Current trends and issues in using, designing, and managing
healthcare risk management systems are examined. Students apply evidencebased information to analyze the design and implementation of
healthcare risk management systems.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
MAN4301 HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT Spring 2016 A 3
Course Description:
This course is a study of all aspects of human resource management including recruitment, selection, retention, turnover, benefits and compensation,
performance, training and development, policies, and procedures. The curriculum provides a study of employment law, labor relations, and employee
relations. Discussion includes the importance of strategies for future planning, networking, and partnering through professional certifications.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
MAN4940 MANAGEMENT INTERNSHIP Summer 2017 A 3
Course Description:
This course provides the student with a supervised practical learning experience within a workplace setting that is relevant to his or her field of study.
Through class assignments and supervised projects, the student gains insight into the operations of an organization. This internship enables the student
to apply classroom learning to the workplace and to expand his or her professional skills. This course consists of integrated classroom study along the
practical work experience. Internships are provided on an "as available" basis.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
MAN4504 OPERATIONAL DECISION MAKING Summer 2017 A 3
Course Description:
This course focuses on the application of management systems, project management, and quantitative principles and techniques for the effective
planning and utilization of resources within an organization. Emphasis is placed on managerial decision making for the improvement of operational
processes and productivity.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
GEB4891 STRATEGIC PLANNING & MANAGEMENT Fall 2017 A 3
Course Description:
This course emphasizes strategic planning and strategy implementation in an organization. The curriculum presents the skills needed to perform internal
and external audits, identify problems, formulate goals, and objectives, develop action plans, and evaluate the effectiveness of the outcomes of these
plans. Case studies are used to promote decisionmaking ability.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
HSC3624 GLOBAL HEALTH FOUNDATIONS Fall 2017 A 3
Course Description:
This course provides general information regarding healthcare and healthcare delivery systems internationally. The course provides a comparison
between healthcare delivery and health statues between the United States and other countries. The curriculum provides students with assessment tools
to compare and contrast the benefits and deficiencies of the U.S. healthcare system as compared to other countries' healthcare systems. The course
prepares students to address the growing impetus to reform healthcare in the United States.
Course Name Term Taken Grade Credits
HSA4922 CAPSTONE: HC ADMINISTRATION Fall 2017 A 3
Course Description:
This course integrates the information, skills, and abilities provided throughout the Health Administration Program in a capstone project. Utilizing case
study methodology, the students complete a project that demonstrates excellence by applying the knowledge gained from the core courses and
materials studied throughout the program. Successful completion of the course requires demonstration of the achievement of program objectives and
learning outcomes. Permission of the Program Director. Permission is contingent upon successful completion of all program core courses except GEB
4891 and completion of all required specialization courses.
Program Core Learning Outcomes
Common Core Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management, the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate leadership expertise through the ability to motivate teams and individuals, and to facilitate change within an organization. 2. Comprehend the ethical and legal dimensions of an organization and apply ethical standards and social responsibility to all facets of organizational decision making. 3. Conduct an analysis of appropriate financial and economic data necessary to support organizational decision making. 4. Apply management theories and resource management practices to successfully lead a dynamic organization. 5. Demonstrate the ability to collect data and analyze information in order to formulate analytically sound decisions for the planning and utilization of resources. 6. Analyze and apply the strategic decisionmaking and operational planning process for effectual policy making within an organization. 7. Communicate effectively in a variety of modes within an organizational environment.
Motivate and Facilitate Change
Motivate and Facilitate Change
Leaders who can motivate and facilitate change offer organizations immense success, as motivational leaders inspire followers to willfully commit towards achieving a mutual cause, goal, or vision.
Although Polk State college incorporates motivation and change concepts into nearly every business course it offers, the courses that provide the most indepth focus on leadership, motivation, and change
are MAN3240, MAN 4301, and MAN3303.
In MAN3240, Organizational Behavior, students learn about motivational theories, diverse types of job designs, reward and incentive programs, group dynamics, teamwork, leadership theories and
processes, the effects of power and politics, conflict resolution, organizational culture, and much more.
In MAN4301, Human Resource Management, students learn about employee motivation, employment law, labor relations, and employee relations. In addition, students learn the importance of
evaluating, training, orienting, and ensuring there is a fit between the employee and the organization. Furthermore, students learn how to reduce employee turnover and how to incorporate policies,
standards, and solutions to appropriately handle difficult situations such as implementing changes when employees are resistant, delivering employee disciplinary actions, terminating employees, laying off
employees, dealing with unions, and downsizing.
In MAN3303, Leadership and Management Practices, students develop their leadership skills by studying various leadership styles and theories. The course also provides instruction that assists
students to improve their skills in the areas of motivation, group dynamics, conflict resolution, goal setting, rewards, job design, work stress, and organizational change and development.
The lessons about leadership, motivation, and change that Melinda has learned will help her to not only become more successful in her career, but also, will help to improve her business and
personal relationships.
First, Melinda has learned that she should always lead by example. A leader cannot influence followers if they do not have integrity. A leader that does what they say, and practices ethical behavior
might not always be the most popular leader, but they will be trusted and respected. No one wants to do business with someone they cannot trust. In addition, integrity affects a leader’s credibility. People
do not always remember when leaders do great deeds, but they do always remember when they falter, are deceiving, or commit questionable acts. If a leader wants to convince their followers to commit to
a practice, the best way for the leader to convince them, is to start performing the practice themselves.
Next, Melinda has learned that to motivate followers, leaders need to create a vision. This not only offers followers a sense of meaning and purpose, but also, creates a positive organizational
culture. A clear vision shows a leader and their followers what they are fighting for and why. Vision not only helps us to decipher which steps are necessary or the most important, but it also provides us
with direction and inspires us to overcome obstacles. If one does not envision entering the race, one will never become motivated to cross the finish line.
Melinda has also learned that the best leaders practice humility, as leaders that do “no wrong” and are closedminded are undesirable. Followers are more apt to offer a stronger effort to a humble
leader who is willing to join them in the mud, than a leader who considers themselves superior and is unwilling to perform the same tasks as their followers. Humble leaders do not focus on themselves, are
open to criticism, and are willing to adjust when necessary. In addition, although leaders should avoid making mistakes, great leaders are humble and admit when they are wrong. It is more noble for leaders
to turn mistakes into learning experiences than for leaders to deem themselves unaccountable to standards that they expect followers to uphold. Moreover, a follower will often perform undesirable tasks for
a leader that they like, but will seldom do this for the latter.
Melinda has learned that there are many styles of leadership and not just one style works. However, she also knows that leaders should always be approachable, need to truly listen to followers.
should be understanding, and should emphasize employee strengths before emphasizing employee weaknesses. Employees respond better to coaching rather than reprimands. Furthermore, leaders should
institute a “just culture,” should offer employees the opportunity to be all they can be, and should ensure that all employees receive fairness, respect, and dignity. Finally, one of the most important things
that a leader should know is that incentive and reward systems do not have to involve money. Providing praise and offering a “Thank you” often goes a long way in motivating employees and facilitating
change.
Application Log 3
Case 2 Bonuses Can Backfire
Discussion 3 Question
Analyze Data
Analyze Data
Performing data analysis can help businesses save time and money, as data models can shed light on a subject, portray a clearer picture of a situation, and improve the accuracy of
decisions. Furthermore, data analysis aids in formulating better solutions, reviewing performance, making future forecasts, and is an easy means of explaining problems and solutions to others. The
ability to make inferences and predictions by analyzing data is extremely important for businesses.
The primary course at Polk State college that teaches data analysis is QMB3600, Quantitative Methods in Business. In this course, students learn how to use statistical measures such as
means and standard deviations to draw conclusions. In addition, students conduct several projects using Excel that allows students to gain experience with decision trees, correlation, multiple
regression, and linear programming. Students also learn to pay close attention to patterns, outliers, relationships between and among data sets, and to consider that external factors could be
influencing the data.
There are three main types of business analytics, which are prescriptive analytics, descriptive analytics, and predictive analytics, as well as there are two main types of models, which are
probabilistic and deterministic models.
Descriptive analytics involve the study and consolidation of historical data. After collecting data, companies can compare and measure their past performances with their present
performances.
Predictive analytics deal with forecasting future outcomes based on patterns in past data. Statistical and mathematical models are the most common means of performing predictive
analytics.
Prescriptive analytics often use optimization methods to provide new and better ways to operate based on the specific needs and objectives of a business.
Probabilistic models involve risk and deterministic models do not involve risk.
The accuracy of a solution is dependent on the accuracy of the input data and the type of model used. Inaccurate data can lead to misleading results, as garbage in equals garbage out. If
the solution is wrong, it could result in financial losses or reduced profits. Some errors to avoid when conducting data analysis are correlation and causality, randumbness, regression to the moon,
and false linear assumption.
Correlation and Causality: When two variables have correlation, such as both variables increase at the same rate, it does not mean that the two variables are dependent on each other. It is
possible that the similarities in rates are merely coincidental. Correlation does not imply causation. Consider this scenario, James and Jenn always make more shots playing basketball than Mary,
Tom, Michael, Audrey, Dawn, and David. By using correlation, one could determine that James and Jenn both have names that start with J and the others do not. Thus, one could determine that
this is the reason that James and Jenn make more shots. However, this would be committing the error of correlation and causality. Although there is a correlation between the two variables with
both James and Jenn being the only names starting with J and both James and Jenn making more shots, but there are other variables that are more likely to be the cause. First, James and Jenn are
taller than the others, and second, both James and Jenn are in better shape than the others. The variables of height and fitness are much more probable causes. To avoid making the error of
correlation and causation, make sure to use groups that are identical as possible, make sure to use a large sample size, and make sure that the only variable permitted to change is the one studied.
RanDumbness: It is a mathematical fact that an infinite number of patterns can be found in any sequence of numbers. Randumbness occurs when a person observes a pattern and gives
the pattern significance when it is in a sequence of independent trials and/or random outcomes. An example of randumbness would be if a person concludes that by using the number nine when
playing roulette, they will always win because they won three times in a row in the past using the number nine. All numbers have the same probability of winning and it is absurd to think that the
number nine will always win.
Regression to the Moon: Regression to the moon is when a legitimate regression equation is used to predict further into the future than the capability of the model. An example of
regression to the moon would be, if a person developed a model to forecast speeds at a speedway, and the model showed a trend that a certain car finishes five seconds faster each year.
Although the car may continue to increase every year by five seconds, it cannot continue to do so forever. A car cannot complete the race in less than zero seconds, and while the forecast might
be accurate at first, eventually it would not be. At some point the car would have to finish the race before it started.
False Linear Assumption: An example of false linear assumption is when one assumes that the data is linear, when it is exponential. When a scatter plot has data that depicts a straight line
it is linear, and when there is a curved line it is exponential. An example of data that is linear would be a scatter plot of sales from 2000 to the present that increases by 24 thousand each year
forming a straight line. This is linear because it increases by a change in a constant increment. An example of exponential data and growth would be a graph of an investment that has a 5% interest
rate compounded yearly. One would be able to see that this is exponential because the data points would form an upward curved line because the data points would represent a change in
constant percentage instead of a change in constant increment. When conducting data analysis, be careful not to mix up the two because it will alter the accuracy of the solution.
Melinda has learned immensely about data analysis, as she has learned about the various types of models, how to develop models, how to interpret models, and has become aware of the
many errors and misuses that can occur. Therefore, in her future endeavors, Melinda will be more accurate when identifying problems, making decisions, forecasting predictions, and finding
trends.
2H Master
Project C Master
Apply Management Theory and Practices
Apply Management Theory and Practices
Applying management theories and resource management practices to successfully lead a dynamic organization is an outcome that is tremendously important for business students to learn.
Managers hold a lot of power when it comes to shaping the environment of a workplace and they often set the tone for whether it is positive or negative. Sometimes something as simple as smiling or
saying, “Thank you” can make a world of difference for an employee. Managers set the stage, deal with conflicts, make sure training is adequate, create teams, hire, terminate, ensure there is no
discrimination, etc. Therefore, having knowledge of multiple theories and practices permits students to be more successful because they can draw from a combination of theories and practices rather than
one, which will increase their odds of finding ultimate solutions and for becoming effective, efficient, and productive managers when they enter the business world. No one theory always applies to every
situation, and over time different methods may need to change due to advancements in technologies, techniques, consumer outlooks, etc. Furthermore, not every theory or practice applies to every field of
work and what works for one employee, may not work for another. Therefore, students will learn that a “one size fits all” method is not a feasible answer.
The Health Care Administration curriculum at Polk State college incorporates a variety of management courses, such as risk management, human resource management, operations management,
strategic management, and even a management internship. In addition, the curriculum includes the psychology behind employee behaviors in the course Organizational Behavior. The three courses that focus
the most on management theories and resource practices are MAN4301 Human Resource Management, GEB4891 Strategic Planning and Management, and MAN3303 Leadership and Management
Practices.
In Man4301, Human Resource Management, students learn about the varied needs of employees, and the importance of keeping job descriptions, job task analyses, and files updated. Additionally,
they learn about job designs and requirements and how to evaluate training, orientation, and employee fit within an organization. They also develop skills for managing compensation, incentives, benefits, and
safety. Furthermore, students learn about the dynamics of labor relations, employee rights and disciplines, and employee laws.
In GEB4891, Strategic Planning and Management, students learn to assess internal and external factors that may affect an organization as well as they learn to implement strategies such as creating
and sustaining competitive advantages, creating value through diversification, becoming aware of cultural differences that affect global markets, and competitive dynamics.
In MAN3303, Leadership and Management Practices, students learn about motivation, group dynamics, conflict resolution, goal setting and rewards, job design, work stress, and organizational
change and development. Through this course, students begin to develop their own leadership style and gain an understanding of how to apply management theories and practices effectively within an
organization.
The intensive study and broad scope of curriculum that Melinda received at Polk State college will help Melinda to recognize patterns and events that occur in workplaces, and she will be more
capable of responding to them with appropriate actions. She will be able to coordinate programs, initiate incentives, create effective teams, and focus workforces towards achieving a common mission.
Melinda will also know how to respond to a wide array of different circumstances, events, employee attitudes, employee personalities, and diverse types of positions involving both individuals and teams.
Moreover, Melinda will have the knowledge and ability to effectively increase production, service, and quality within an organization, which is the focus of almost all management theories and practices.
Discussion Question 1
Discussion Question 5
Application Log 2
Application Log 1
Organizational Culture
Resource Planning
Resource Planning
Resource planning makes optimum use of all available resources. It helps to reduce waste, avoids the duplication of products and services, and aims to obtain the highest returns at the lowest
possible cost. If properly instituted, resource planning can improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of an organization, regardless of the organization’s size, type, or objective. Furthermore, there are
many risks involved for businesses, and resource planning helps to forecast these risks and helps organizations anticipate and prepare accordingly for future uncertainties. By planning properly, organizations
can ensure that there is the right amount of the right resources and the right skills at the right time. Therefore, it is vital that students acquire the ability to collect data and analyze information to formulate
analytically sound decisions for the planning and utilization of resources. Two of the main courses that aid students in acquiring the necessary resource planning skills that they need to be successful in
business are MAN4504 Operational Decision Making and MAN4301 Human Resource Management.
In MAN4504, Operational Decision Making, the students learn about forecasting, capacity planning, facilities and layout, scheduling, managing inventories, assuring quality, product life cycles,
product design, aggregate planning, and motivating employees. Students also learn how to make decisions that will improve operational processes and productivity by studying management systems, project
management, and quantitative principles and techniques. After taking this course, students become more effective in planning and utilizing resources within an organization by learning about the elements of
supply chain management, logistics, inventory management, aggregate planning, manufacturing resource planning (MRP) and enterprise resource planning (ERP), “Just in Time” (JIT) and lean operations,
and queuing models.
In MAN4301, Human Resource Management, the students learn about the negative effects of improper resource planning. If an organization does not schedule the staff or the jobs appropriately it
could cause unnecessary payroll expenses or even worse, it could cause the organization to lose the account. Moreover, there are many factors to consider when it comes to sustaining adequate resources,
such as estimating how many customers will need service, making sure there is enough supplies, there is enough inventory, and there are enough workers.
The knowledge Melinda has learned about resource planning has given her an awareness of the importance of proper scheduling, ordering, forecasting, training, and hiring, as all of these factors can
affect the financial stability of an organization. She knows that there needs to be a balance of resources in an organization. It would not be beneficial if a surgeon performed an operation and did not have
enough sutures to sew the patient back up. If a construction worker built a house, the worker would need enough lumber. In addition, nothing could be done in any field of work, if there were no workers.
Therefore, human capital is a valuable resource. Furthermore, the workers need to have the knowhow to do the job, as well as they must have the right tools. Finally, you cannot have “All chiefs and no
Indians” nor can you have “All Indians and no chiefs.”
Midterm Exam B & L Inc. Case Study
Decision Making and Policy Planning
Decision Making and Policy Planning
Being effective when analyzing and applying strategic decisionmaking and instituting operational planning processes into an organization, is not simple. When conducting business, decision making
requires much more than merely acting on gut feelings. There are many factors to consider such as data analysis, the internal and external environment, ethics, regulatory laws, and more. Furthermore,
when it comes to policy planning businesses need to be concise, clear, and specific. Moreover, whether a policy involves hiring, promoting, or terminating employees, managers need to be careful to ensure
that policies not only meet the objectives and goals of the organization, but also at the same time practice procedural justice, adhere to equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, and protect employee
health and safety. The incorporation of safeguards into policies will help to prevent businesses from having to deal with unexpected legal repercussions later. Managers should always document all actions
proving and supporting that the business is honorable and free from discrimination.
In GEB4891, Strategic Management, students learn that businesses need to be proactive instead of merely reactive, and to do this, one needs to conduct more than a mere SWOT (Strengths
WeaknessesOpportunitiesThreats) analysis. A more indepth scan of both the internal and external environment will help organizations avoid the inevitable roadblocks, traffic, and detours that can arise in
business. This course helps students expand their views and to consider the outside influential factors of demographics, economics, sociocultural trends, political and legal matters, technology, and global
issues.
In QMB3600, Quantitative Methods in Business, students learn how to use decision trees, probabilities, and various other methods of data analysis to aid them in decision processes.
In MAN4301, Human Resource Management, the students learn about acquiring, training, appraising, and compensating employees, as well as learn how to deal with labor relations, health and
safety, and fairness concerns. Students also examine how global, economic, and technology trends are constantly altering the way businesses run. The influences range from the aging workforce, to the
creation of Facebook, to new laws, and this class prepares students to adapt accordingly. Furthermore, this course taught about the history of equal opportunity laws, which included Title VII of the 1964
Civil Rights Act, the Equal Pay Act of 1963, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978, and many more. Since
management needs to know the law when it comes to potential claims of discrimination, and should proactively take measures to implement policies and procedures that will stand up in court, this class will
surely benefit students.
In MAN3240, Organizational Behavior, the students learn about biases in decision making. Therefore, they learn about Fundamental Attribution Error and the shortcuts people use to judge others,
which include: Selective Perception People selectively interpret what they see on the basis of their interest, background, experience, and attitudes, Halo Effect Drawing a general impression about an
individual based on a single characteristic, Contrast Effects Evaluations of a person’s characteristics that are affected by comparisons with other people recently encountered who rank higher or lower on
the same characteristics, Projection Attributing one’s own characteristics to other people, and Stereotyping Judging someone based solely on the group to which that person belongs. Organizational
Behavior combines psychology, social psychology, sociology, and anthropology, to decipher the reasons individuals behave in different manners. This knowledge helps to increase quality and productivity,
and to reduce absenteeism and employee turnover. Organizational Behavior aids in identifying what the necessary steps are to accomplish tasks such as empowering workers, improving people skills,
building change programs, improving customer service, and finding solutions to balance worklife conflicts for employees. The utilization of Organizational Behavior within the workforce is important
because it not only creates positive work environments, but also helps managers know how to base decisions and to plan accordingly.
The wealth of information regarding decision making and policy planning that Melinda has received at Polk State College will assist her in making unbiased, nondiscriminatory, and effective
decisions. In addition, Melinda will make decisions that are more proactive rather than merely reactive, as she will consider a broad array of influencing factors and data, which is much better than making
decisions based on whims. Furthermore, when it comes to policy planning, Melinda will confidently meet and support her organization’s objectives, as well as protect her employee’s rights and safety.
Module 3 Discussion
McDonalds Case Analysis
Case Analysis
Effective Communication
Effective Communication
Communication is a critical element of business, because everything in business revolves around effective communication to function well. Businesses use communication to plan, to hire, to train, to
motivate, to coordinate, to persuade, to sell, to collect payments, to negotiate, to resolve conflicts, to create goodwill, and an unending list of other purposes. It is essential for business leaders to have
excellent verbal and nonverbal communication skills, as leaders are often a symbol of a company’s integrity and this affects not only how customers perceive the company, but also impacts the thoughts
and actions of lower positioned employees. For example, a leader that speaks using improper grammar, or writes correspondence with spelling errors throughout it, could project a negative image that can
be harmful to a company. Customers might conclude that the leader is incompetent, and they might decide that they do not wish to purchase goods from a company that hires inept leaders. Furthermore,
employees might become less apt to respect an authority that appears to be uneducated, as well as employees might feel that if the leader disregards using proper communication than it is not necessary for
them to use it either. Business leaders need to know when to listen, when to talk, and how to share ideas effectively. Clear and concise communication states exactly how, who, what, and when and serves
to guide, direct, protect, persuade, and to inform. Communication is essential for decreasing miscommunications and for increasing productivity, motivation, and efficiency. When someone uses effective
communication, he or she is more apt to have favorable results and his or her requests will become granted more often. Furthermore, communication builds goodwill. Having excellent communication skills
is the key to becoming a quality manager and it helps to meet the needs and goals of employers, employees, and customers. Lastly, the higher the level of communication skills an employee has, the better
his or her chances are for success. Excellent communication often determines if a person will rise within an organization, and the higher one rises the more vital communication becomes.
In GEB3213, Advanced Communications in Business, students develop skills to become effective communicators. Students develop these skills through class discussions and exercises, such as
creating clear and concise letters, memos, and research reports. In addition, the Advanced Communications in Business course challenges students to respond to difficult situational cases to enhance the
student’s business decision making and analytical thinking skills. Furthermore, to produce more effective writers, the course encourages students to revise, to write regularly, to have clear goals, to focus
on purpose and audience, to have more than one strategy, to break big jobs into small chunks, to wait to edit until after the draft is complete, and to use rules flexibly.
The knowledge Melinda has gained about communications will help her to form respectful, interactive relationships with others, as it is necessary to use teamwork to complete many important
projects. This includes exchanging, formulating, and evaluating ideas and strategies, brainstorming, making decisions, and constructing collaborative documents. Furthermore, Melinda has learned that in
some cases it is necessary to protect the information she receives. In the health care industry this is especially true, as a person’s health records are sensitive and should never be discussed outside of the
office. The knowledge Melinda has gained at Polk State college will assist her in being more prepared, more professional, and most importantly, more productive within the business world.
Mini Paper
Exercise 3.14
Final Paper
CrossCultural Communication
Application of Ethical Standards/Social Responsibility
Application of Ethical Standards/Social Responsibility
Knowing what is ethical is not always obvious, and knowing where to draw the line between making a profit and preserving a business's reputation may not be easy to define. Therefore,
understanding the ethical and legal dimensions of an organization and applying ethical standards and social responsibility for all facets of organizational decisions is an important subject for students
to study.
In simple words, ethics are the standards or behaviors that a person ought to follow or act upon in a given situation. One might say, that practicing ethics is merely doing the “right thing.”
However, the problem is “What is truly right?” The “right thing” for one, might not necessarily be the “right thing” for someone else. This is especially true in international business. Take
McDonalds for instance, while eating beef is common in the United States, it is not common in India. Thus, when McDonalds opened in India, McDonalds had to create a whole new menu.
Diverse cultures have different perceptions of what is right and what is wrong. Also, there are occasions where there is a fine line in ethics. For instance, if a person is willing to pay $500 to have
their house painted and a business only usually charges $300, should the business take the money and not tell the customer? Later on, if the customer were to find out that they could have paid
less, they probably would not refer any of their friends and neighbors nor would they give any repeat business to the company. In the health care profession, there are often even more difficult
decisions that must be made, and many times there might not be any right answers. In addition, while new technologies and advancements in science are assisting in making people healthier and
allowing people to live longer, there are many more complex issues and situations that are arising that cause many ethical dilemmas. If two patients are on the verge of passing away and both have
been waiting for a heart transplant for the same amount of time, and one heart becomes available that is a match for both patients, which patient should receive the heart? If a baby is born without
a brain, should it be kept alive by machines or should it not? If a person is terminally ill and it is known that they will die in excruciating pain, is it right to deny them the choice of ending their life if
they wish to do so to avoid the pain? Students need to address these issues in the classroom to help them decipher what is right before being bombarded with these types of decisions in the real
world. This will help them to become more prepared.
When it comes to social responsibility, should a business only be concerned with making a profit or does a business have an obligation to care for its employees, the environment, or other
concerns? This may be debatable. Businesses that are not practicing social responsibility often end up paying in the end, as it takes time and money to defend or clean up the possible negative
consequences or damages that unethical choices might cause. While a business may profit initially by practicing unethical practices, when they become exposed it might be costly. The
consequences could result in paying fines, receiving a tarnished image, or experiencing boycotts of products from customers. On the other hand, organizations that have practiced social
responsibility often earn a positive image, a solid reputation, save money, earn higher profits, as well as achieve positive corporate cultures where employees are proud to work. For example,
green efforts such as installing solar panels can be extremely positive for businesses. Even though there may be an initial pay out, over time a company would save money by not paying an electric
bill. Also, practicing ethics might provide a company with a competitive advantage, as customers often choose to support an ethical company over an unethical one.
One of the main courses at Polk State college that teaches ethical standards and social responsibility is HSA4553 Legal and Ethical Issues in Health Care, as topics such as government
regulation, medical liability, the professionalpatient relationship, allocation of scarce resources, endoflife decisions, and many controversial issues (abortion, stem cell research, genetic
engineering, cloning) are discussed. This not only provides students with an awareness, but also prepares students by providing them with constructive insight to make appropriate and informed
decisions when the students become confronted with difficult and complex problems in their future career.
By studying and learning about ethics and social responsibility, Melinda has gained a strong foundation to base decisions and she has developed the fortitude to be just and fair in her
decisions. Furthermore, Melinda has learned that to form a solid, reputable company there is more to consider than mere profits.
Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Reflection 7 Business Ethics
Specialization Learning Outcomes
Specialization Learning Outcomes (Healthcare Administration):
Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Applied Science in Supervision and Management, the student will be able to:
1. Analyze the nature and causes of major healthcare problems, drawing on a broad informational base of healthcare and healthcare issues. 2. Evaluate the structure of healthcare delivery systems and the related information technology, finance, and risk management issues. 3. Interpret the legal, regulatory, and ethical issues in healthcare administration. 4. Integrate information from multidisciplinary functional areas to critically analyze and strategize solutions to various healthcare issues.
Analyze Healthcare Problems
Analyze Healthcare Problems
Around the globe, there are countless health care problems such as, malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, heart disease, cancer, and violence, and there is no one method or technique that will bring relief to all
the afflicted. Health care workers must first identify the root causes of the problems before they can properly find solutions, interventions, and preventions. Therefore, it is essential that health care
administration students learn how to analyze the nature and causes of major health care problems.
In HSC3624, Foundations of Global Health Care, students learn about descriptive and analytic epidemiology, cause and effect relationships, how to develop comprehensive programs and
interventions, to encourage community participation, as well as how to use methods such as the PRECEDEPROCEED Model. In addition, students learn that markers and indicators are valuable tools that
help to compare the differences in health between nations, and aid public health workers in determining the severity of the health care needs of various geographic areas and diverse cultures.
In HSA3110, Healthcare Organization and Management, students learn about the many factors that contribute to the increased risks of disease, which include a low socioeconomic status,
globalization, urbanization, and environmental conditions. Students examine numerous ways to improve health care delivery, especially in the areas of availability, accessibility, and cost. Students also learn to
apply major organizational perspectives and theories to improve and solve health care problems.
In HSA4502, Health Care Risk Management, students learn how to improve the health care system by creating an environment that reduces risks and attempts to eliminate problems.
One of the most important lessons Melinda has learned while studying health care administration, is that when analyzing health care problems, one must find the source of the problem rather than
just treating the symptoms. In addition, preventative methods are a must to promote health, as screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, cancer, and diabetes are all ways that attempt to detect illnesses
early so that it lessens the odds of an illness becoming life threatening. Melinda realizes that certain nonmodifiable risk factors create greater risks for certain individuals such as heredity, age, gender, and
raceethnicity. However, she also realizes that risks can become reduced, if those who are at risk refrain from participating in risky modifiable behaviors such as tobacco use, alcohol abuse, overeating,
being physically inactive, and participating in promiscuous sexual activities. Therefore, Melinda will dedicate herself towards educating the public and will strive towards implementing interventions and
counseling services for individuals with alcohol and drug addictions, victims of violence, and those with mental illnesses. By doing so, she will significantly help to reduce the risks of health problems and
will save lives. On top of this, Melinda has learned that it is crucial that a “just culture” for health care workers becomes implemented in any organization. A “just culture” does not punish individuals for
making simple, honest mistakes, but seeks to correct the problems by fixing a flawed system. This allows the staff the freedom to openly cooperate in developing methods and plans that improve health,
instead of the staff keeping suggestions for improvement to themselves or not telling about problematic situations or issues due to the fear of termination or conflict.
Unit 2 Assignment
Unit 3 Assignment
Unit 4 Assignment
Unit 6 Assignment
Week 6 Written Assignment
Evaluate Healthcare Delivery Systems
Evaluate Healthcare Delivery Systems
In a perfect world, health care would be more accessible, there would always be quality care, and it would be affordable. Each of these three components, accessibility, quality, and
affordability, are the essential elements of delivering successful healthcare outcomes. By evaluating health care delivery systems, it will become much more possible for students to achieve these
efforts.
In HSC3624, Foundations of Global Health, students compare several of the health care delivery systems from around the globe. From this, students learn that the United States health
care system is comprised of four different health care systems. The portion of the system where insured individuals receive benefits from an employer is comparable to Bismarck’s model of health
care. The governmentfunded portion of the system corresponds with Canada’s national health insurance system. The Veteran Administration part of the system resembles the Beveridge model,
and the Americans who pay out of pocket without insurance are comparable to developing nations.
The pros of the United States health care system are that the most vulnerable people within the United States, which includes children, the elderly, the poor, and the extremely sick, often
receive benefits at no cost. The cons of the United States health care system are that many people do not have insurance and therefore, many people avoid seeking preventive services due to
costly expenses. Consequentially, on most occasions, the only time Americans seek care is when there is a medical emergency. Preventative care is necessary to maintain costs, and this is
especially true, for individuals with conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Another problem is that many health disparities exist, as minority populations such as African Americans,
Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Hispanics have a higher prevalence of chronic disease, a much higher mortality rate, and poorer health outcomes than Caucasians. Also, there is
insufficient mental health coverage in the American system due to factors such as stigma and not having enough access to care. Moreover, Administrative costs are higher in the United States than
other countries as well. However, although costly, the United States does have the best health care in the world.
In HSA3110, Health Care Organization and Management, students discover that there is a growing need for longterm care, as recent technologies are increasing life expectancies. This is
partly due to terminal illnesses becoming only chronic diseases, as even patients with HIV/AIDS and cancer are living much longer. Additionally, baby boomers are now retiring, and the elderly
population is rapidly growing. The US is simply not ready for the cost of this expansion. Medicare only covers shortterm postacute care after hospital discharges and there are limits on short
term skilled nursing care. Moreover, people have not saved or paid into long term insurance plans. In addition, many children, adolescents, and young people are now requiring longterm care as
well. Many have disorders such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, spina bifida, and epilepsy or may have had severe injuries to the head, spinal cord, or limbs due to vehicle accidents,
sports mishaps, or industrial accidents. In the past many of these youth, would not have survived, but with today’s advancements they too are increasingly surviving.
In HSA4502, Health Care Risk Management, the students learn that risk managers and leaders should support a just culture, as punishing people for making simple mistakes seldom
solves problems. The goal is to create a balanced environment where staff members will not fear admitting mistakes, talking about failures, pointing out problems, and reporting risks. A just
culture focuses on turning mistakes into learning experiences and fixes the system, rather than merely blaming staff members.
Melinda will be much more effective in her leadership roles due to learning about health care delivery systems. Knowing the pros and cons, will help Melinda to identify problems, which
will help her to develop solutions. Furthermore, Melinda will instill a just culture so that her staff will voice their concerns. She will listen to suggestions for improvements, and she will encourage
staff to participate in becoming part of improving the system. Furthermore, Melinda will promote preventative care for patients to reduce costs, and will strive to increase accessibility and quality.
Unit 7 Assignment
MMasterHSA4502Assignment1.doc
Week 5 Written Assignment
Critical Thinking 1.HSA.4553
Interpret legal\ethical IssuesInterpret legal\ethical Issues
Interpret Legal/Ethical Issues
Health care professionals deal with many complex situations, regulations, laws, and standards. For instance, what should a health care worker do if a child is about to die unless the child
receives an emergency blood transfusion, and the child’s parents are forbidding the procedure because it is against their religion? The law and ethics, conflict on many issues and as it did in this
scenario, it often leaves health care workers facing many ethical dilemmas. Nearly every decision made in health care has ethical implicationsfor patients, for providers and for administration.
From confidentiality and consent regulations, to abortions, to genetics, to cloning, and stem cell research there are many controversial issues that arise in health care. Furthermore, there are
insurance coverage problems. What if the child needed an operation and the child’s health insurance did not cover it? Therefore, it is highly recommended that health care administration students
learn to interpret the legal, regulatory, and ethical issues that constantly inundate health care facilities.
In HSA4553, Legal and Ethical Issues in Health Care, the students learn about many laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the Americans with
Disabilities Act, the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act, the Tax Equity Fiscal Responsibility Act, the Deficit Reduction Act, Stark I, II,
and III Regulations, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Act, plus many more. In addition, there is instruction on malpractice, professional liability, public duties, consent, ethics,
bioethics, allocation of scarce medical resources, genetic engineering, abortion, advanced directives, stages of grief, and the psychological and physiological aspects of dying.
In Health Care Risk Management, the students learn about the four basic principles of ethics, which are nonmaleficence, beneficence, autonomy, and justice. Also, there is instruction on
the importance of a “Just Culture” and the seven pillars of patient safety, which is a beneficial approach to mitigating patient harm events and reducing medical malpractice claims. The seven pillars
are: occurrence reporting, assessment and investigation, communication, disclosure and apology, process or performance improvement, data analysis, and education. Furthermore, students learn
about the benefits that organizations receive through accreditation and licensure. Accreditation agencies improve hospitals because they develop applicable predetermined and published
standards, conduct studies to pinpoint problem areas, do benchmarking, and offer training and education programs. Licensures provide proof that the organization is achieving the required health
and safety standards and ensures the public that the health care organization and its health care professionals are staying current in competencies, standards, and functional levels.
Although legal and ethical issues in health care are common, Melinda will be prepared when she starts her future career as she has learned immensely throughout her courses at Polk State
College. Melinda knows to keep confidentiality, to receive consent from patients, to treat employees fairly, to be sensitive to patient needs, to weigh the circumstances, to balance the ethics along
with possible legal repercussions, to practice nonmaleficence, and many other important issues that health care professionals need to be concerned and knowledgeable about. Moreover,
Melinda will implement a “Just Culture” as well as will utilize the seven pillars of patient safety.
Critical Thinking 2.HSA.4553
Case 31 Assignment
MMasterHSA4502Assignment3.doc
Exam 2.HSA 4553.Spring.2017.FT1
Strategic Integration
Strategic Integration
Strategic integration involves looking at the big picture and ensuring there is a unified mission or perspective that spreads across the entire organization. Although information may me
generated by individual departments within a hospital, the information must be shared or communicated with the other departments to be useful for the whole organization. In a sense, strategic
integration bridges the gaps. A good strategic manager needs to comprehend how all the factors that influence an organization will interact. Decisions and changes that occur in one division affect
other divisions. Therefore, a holistic viewpoint must be used that integrates the various divisional actions and environmental influences into one strategic plan where all hands collaborate and know
what the other is doing. Strategic integration does not allow for individual departments passing the buck onto another department. Students must learn these concepts to optimally run an
organization.
In GEB4891, Strategic Planning and Management, students practice integrating strategies using case studies. While textbooks provide knowledge, text books do not necessarily teach
integration skills. Therefore, the students attending this class gain an upper hand in business, as they not only obtain knowledge, but they also acquire insight and experience.
In MAN4301, Human Resource Management, students become aware of the benefits of implementing a “Just Culture,” which uses an integrated philosophy as communication between
departments and staff is encouraged, and this improves the organization as a whole system rather than just one department. Furthermore, this type of system improves efficiency, affordability,
production, and saves lives. Occurrence records also integrate information, which helps an organization avoid future risks.
In MAN4504, Operational Decision Making, it does not take long before students notice that operations management involves every aspect of an organization. Therefore, strategic
integration is a mandatory part of an operations manager’s job. Operations management encompasses every employee, department, and material within a business and operations managers face a
myriad of mechanical and social situations daily.
In MAN3303, Health Care Organization and Management, students learn about electronic health records, which are a perfect example of what strategic integration is all about. Electronic
health records connect departments by providing a way to network the information throughout the entire hospital as well as other agencies. Another example of this, would be telehealth systems
because these systems connect and share information, improve the system, and eliminate barriers.
In the future, Melinda will reduce the risks of miscommunications, accidents, and malpractice suits within the organization she leads by incorporating mechanisms and systems that support
integration rather than discord, excessive competition, gaps in service, miscommunications, and uncooperative efforts by staff. Additionally, Melinda will pursue opportunities that utilize the
organization’s full capabilities and strengths by combining resources and competencies from multiple departments. Furthermore, she will embrace new strategies that will holistically improve the
organization. Melinda will seek to make distinctions and to envision the whole. Finally, Melinda knows that good managers, need to be good jugglers, so Melinda will make every effort to
consider future actions while staying focused simultaneously on the present.
Week 4 Written Assignment
MMasterHSA4502Assignment6.doc
Unit 1 Assignment
Week 2 Discussion Board
Concluding Remarks
Conclusion
While sifting through the vast information, research, and essays that I have completed throughout this program, I found that I have not only learned immensely, but I have grown, changed,
and have become much stronger than I was before. I learned that Polk State College, has provided me with a solid knowledge base that will not only help me to problem solve, but also will make
me more proficient in skills and more valuable to an employer. The increased knowledge that I developed, will not only help me in my career, but also will help me no matter what my status is in
life. A solid education gives an individual the power to decode the puzzles of life and helps individuals defend themselves from the ferocious lions that may occasionally attack them along the
journey. Additionally, people may be able to steal one’s personal possessions, but no one can ever steal one’s education once they have obtained it.
From an early age, the only sincere desire I have ever had is to make a difference in the world by helping others and trying to brighten the world around me. Polk State has helped me to
become more capable of doing this. Because I have learned to motivate and to facilitate change, I will be a more inspirational and effective leader. Because I have learned to analyze data and
have become more aware of the various misuses of it, I will be more accurate when I identify problems, make decisions, forecast predictions, and I will be able to see developing trends. Because
I have studied management theories and practices, I will be able to coordinate programs, initiate incentives, create effective teams, and focus workforces towards achieving a common mission. I
will also know how to respond to a wide array of different circumstances, events, employee attitudes, employee personalities, and diverse types of positions involving both individuals and teams.
Moreover, I will have the knowledge and ability to effectively increase production, service, and quality within an organization. Because I have learned about resource planning, I have gained an
awareness for the importance of proper scheduling, ordering, forecasting, training, and hiring, and I know that these factors can have a significant impact on the financial stability of an organization.
Therefore, I will be sure to maintain a balance of resources within the organization that I work for, and I will make sure that my workers have the proper tools, equipment, and training to correctly
do their jobs. Because I have learned about decision making and policy planning, I will remain unbiased, nondiscriminatory, and effective when making decisions, and I will have proactive
motives, rather than reactive. Furthermore, I will look after and support my organization’s objectives as well as protect my employee’s rights and safety. Since I have learned about effective
communication, I will know to be approachable and to be a good listener. I will succeed in forming respectful, interactive relationships with others, and I will utilize teamwork to complete
important projects. I will be able to exchange, formulate, and evaluate ideas and strategies. I will be more effective while brainstorming, making group decisions, and constructing collaborative
documents. Furthermore, I will also know to protect a person’s health record, and I will never discuss sensitive information with unauthorized personnel. By studying and learning about ethics and
social responsibility, I have established a solid foundation to base my decisions and it has given me the fortitude I need to be just and fair. What is more, I have learned that to form a solid,
reputable company, I must consider more than mere profits. Because I have learned to analyze health care problems, I will know to treat the source of the problem rather than only the symptoms.
In addition, I will be effective at promoting health and wellness because I will use preventative methods. Because I have learned to evaluate health care delivery systems, I will strive to increase
accessibility, to reduce costs, and to improve quality for patients. Because I have become educated in interpreting legal and ethical issues, I will be sure to keep confidentiality, to receive consent
from patients, to treat employees fairly, and to be sensitive to patient needs. I will weigh the circumstances, and I will balance the ethics with possible legal repercussions. I will practice non
maleficence. I will also be sure to implement a “Just Culture” and will utilize the seven pillars of patient safety so that I will reduce miscommunications, accidents, and malpractice suits. I will
incorporate mechanisms and systems that support integration rather than discord, excessive competition, gaps in service, and uncooperative efforts by staff. Moreover, I will utilize the full
capabilities and strengths of my organization by combining resources and competencies from multiple departments. I will embrace new strategies and I will be holistic in my efforts to make
improvements. Finally, I will consider future actions while staying focused simultaneously on the present. Polk State College has certainly provided me a solid foundation for me to stand on, and I
know it will help me to change the world, even if it is only a small corner of it. Therefore, I am eager to begin my career, so I can make my dreams a reality.