Brandon Boos, MA
My Dartmouth MHCDS classmates are leaders and innovators from all across healthcare, and their insights are as influential as the curriculum itself. If you want to address complex, system level challenges, there is no better way to prepare than with the resources of a world class institution, the guidance of renowned faculty, and the collective strength of a cohort comprised of accomplished peers.
It wasn’t until I dropped out of college to join the Air Force after 9/11 that I realized just how much of a mission-driven person I am. I’m always at my best when I have a team to lead and noble purpose to pursue. It’s something that I feared I would lose, at least professionally, after retiring from the military, but I’ve found it again supporting healthcare with great technology and processes. As an IT Director I don’t deliver patient care, but I do use IT to shape the environment our providers work in, the experiences of the families who visit our hospitals, and the quality of outcomes for thousands of patients every day. I’m an integrator by nature, and I like to bring people and things together to solve problems and create solutions in an increasingly interconnected world.
Outside of work and school at Dartmouth, I read a lot of books about history and particularly enjoy biographies. I follow current events closely, including geo-political developments and military affairs, and always enjoy discussing or debating them over a few pours of bourbon. Most nights though, I’m happily wrapped up in my kids’ many activities.
Why did you decide to pursue an MHCDS degree?
Professionally, I live at the intersection of technology, business, and
Why did you choose MHCDS over another type of master’s program like an MBA, MPH, or MHA?
I was searching for a graduate program that would help me truly understand the complexities of healthcare. I looked at many great MHA and MBA-Healthcare degrees, but the MHCDS at Dartmouth stood-out because of its emphasis on teaching healthcare as an integrated ecosystem. That was exactly what I was looking for.
What has been the best part of the program for you – so far?
I had no idea how much I needed these people and this place in my life until I arrived on campus. The intellectual stimulation is exactly what I was hoping for, but it’s the relationships I’m building with my cohort, faculty, and staff that I will be most grateful for after graduation.
How have you used the skills and knowledge you have gained so far in the MHCDS program?
I wasn’t shocked to pick up new tools and insights, but I was surprised by how quickly my understanding of complex healthcare processes grew - and how that immediately translated into value on a variety of projects which previously would have been beyond my scope.
Is there anything that surprised you about your MHCDS experience?
Is it weird to say that everything about the program has an incredibly fraternal feel? The staff and faculty aren’t just professional - they’re invested in you. Your cohort isn’t just a bunch of strangers you attend class with - they are people you develop meaningful relationships with. It isn’t collegiality or customer service: it’s truly something special.
Is there anything else that you would tell a friend or colleague who was considering the MHCDS program?
Your Dartmouth MHCDS classmates are leaders and innovators from all across healthcare, and their insights are as influential as the curriculum itself. If you want to address complex, system‑level challenges, there is no better way to prepare than with the resources of a world‑class institution, the guidance of renowned faculty, and the collective strength of a cohort comprised of accomplished peers.