Michael Anderson, MD, MHCDS

I was asked to take over for our retiring CEO... This was a great honor, and something I was interested in pursuing, but I knew I needed to learn more. I researched numerous programs over 18 months and found the MHCDS program. It was EXACTLY what I needed: A comprehensive, dedicated program focused on the study and delivery of health care in the United States and beyond. When I reviewed the curriculum, schedule and professors involved in this program, I knew it would enhance my existing knowledge and better prepare me to lead a health care system.

I currently serve as the President & CEO of Fort HealthCare. I also am a practicing Fort HealthCare Otolaryngologist for the last 20 years. In my free time I enjoy nothing more than spending time with my wife and 3 children. We love to travel and are an avid watersports family.

Why did you decide to take the MHCDS program?

I never thought my professional career would evolve to where it has. I love to see patients and help them with their ENT health needs, both clinically and surgically. I started to get more involved in our OR process and delivery early in my career. One thing led to another, and I was asked to take over for our retiring CEO many years later. This was a great honor, and something I was interested in pursuing, but I knew I needed to learn more. I researched numerous programs over 18 months and found the MHCDS program. It was EXACTLY what I needed: A comprehensive, dedicated program focused on the study and delivery of health care in the United States. When I reviewed the curriculum, schedule and professors involved in this program, I knew it would enhance my existing knowledge and better prepare me to lead a health care system.

Why did you choose MHCDS over another type of master’s program?

During my research, I did look at MBA programs. However, I felt they didn’t compare to the MHCDS program. MHCDS was superior in terms of an all-encompassing program dedicated to health care, and in particular, health care delivery. Plus, the schedule was ideal for someone working full time with a family. It was the perfect blend of on campus residential sessions and online programs. Integrating this program into my work and family schedule was seamless.

What has been the best part of the program for you – so far?

The best part of the program by far has been the people. The professors are incredibly knowledgeable yet approachable. They really take an interest in our collective success. Also, my classmates are all very successful in their own organizations and are wonderful people. We all work together through our study groups. I feel fortunate because I have learned so much from my classmates’ experiences and knowledge.  I know I will be part of the MHCDS family for a long time.

How has my job changed since starting the program? How did MHCDS prepare you?

When I started the program, I was the Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Fort HealthCare. Now, I am the President & CEO. There is no doubt that MHCDS has prepared me for my position. Using what I have learned through MHCDS, we at Fort HealthCare are launching a project to study our medical staff, examine our service lines, and identify areas of opportunity to better serve our community. Additionally, aligning our corporate strategy with our employees and community will certainly lead to future success, as we initiate projects within our health care system. Innovation, corporate communication, and strategy play essential roles for any company, health care or otherwise. The MHCDS program truly dives into importance of these pillars of success in delivering health care, whether it is locally, regionally, or nationally.

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

Communication is paramount to any organization. I immediately looked at how we communicate amongst our departments and leaders. Additionally, how we communicate between those departments, and align everyone to our overall strategy. The lessons and real-life examples learned through MHCDS has assisted me in this a great deal. I am in the process of rolling out a communication strategy. Once done, our strategy pertaining to healthcare delivery will be aligned through all our departments, creating a one-company culture, rather than siloed departments.

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

Absolutely. If you want to enrich your knowledge of health care immensely, meet amazing people, learn from the best and have the goal of improving health care in the United States, then this is the program for you. It will challenge you in all the right ways as you prepare to take on the toughest issues in health care. Your network will be vast and available. You will learn from your colleagues and build lifelong friends!