José Rodriguez, MD

We need leaders who can serve as liaisons across the ecosystem and guide healthcare delivery in a financially healthy manner. MHCDS is equipping me with the necessary tools to navigate improving my community’s health.

I am an adult cardiothoracic surgeon with over 17 years’ experience. I have been a leader and innovator in minimally invasive surgery utilizing cutting-edge technology including robotics. Additionally, I have been a part of senior level clinical and administrative teams that have focused on quality patient measures and process improvement within the health system. 

When I’m not working as a surgeon, I am aspiring to improve my handicap on the golf course. My love of travel includes visiting notable golf courses around the U.S. and other countries. My wife of 17 years and I enjoy entertaining regularly while trying our hand at various culinary dishes from around the world. We have dreamed of opening our own restaurant someday. Recently, I have enjoyed a new role as assistant coach for our son’s baseball team. Our daughter keeps us busy with her various activities including science projects, writing, and performing arts.

Why did you decide to take the MHCDS program?

We need leaders who can serve as liaisons across the ecosystem and guide healthcare delivery in a financially healthy manner. MHCDS is equipping me with the necessary tools to navigate improving my community’s health. Obtaining a master’s in business or a similar program has been a goal of mine for many years. MHCDS appealed to me specifically because it is designed for established physicians and executive leaders with 10+ years of experience. The 12-month hybrid curriculum from a world-renowned school of business was attractive to me because I felt confident I would experience excellent education and establish an important network for my future endeavors. My wife's encouragement to apply was what ultimately led me to pursue the program.

Has your job changed since starting the program?

I have accepted an Associate Professor position with the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College and as the Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery Program and Quality with the Heart and Vascular Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC). The MHCDS program helped me improve my communication skills as well as develop my strategic vision and proposal for the future Cardiac Minimally Invasive Program at DHMC.

How have you used the MHCDS experience/skills/knowledge you have gained so far? 

The MHCDS program strengthened my leadership skill set immediately. Right after the first residential, I was able to improve the efficiency of my meetings as well as my patients’ care utilizing the Human-Centered Innovation pathways.

Is there anything else that you would tell a friend or colleague who was considering the MHCDS program? 

I would say that this program is tailor-made to improve the expertise of current leaders in healthcare. It will give all the tools necessary to continue building your skill sets in healthcare strategy, personal leadership and managing people.