EMBA Elite Spotlight: Heather Martin
- July 9th, 2015
- in EMBA Elite Spotlight Series
Program: Huntsville EMBA (currently enrolled in the 2016 Class)
Hometown: Brentwood, Tennessee
Previous Education: BA in Spanish from Georgetown College
Occupation: Manager of Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC), Denials and Medical Necessity for Community Health Systems. Heather manages government and commercial healthcare payer recoupment process for 200 acute care hospitals owned and/or operated by the second largest for-profit hospital operator in the U.S.
Post-UA EMBA Goals
My goal upon completing the EMBA Program is to enter the CEO-In-Training Program. The process involves three 18-24 month steps: step 1) shadowing a C-level executive, step 2) assuming an Assistant CEO role and finally step 3) becoming a COO or CEO of a hospital.
Why did you enroll in Huntsville EMBA Program at The University of Alabama?
I chose the Culverhouse College of Commerce at The University of Alabama because it is a well recognized and respected institution. Having a bachelor’s degree from a small liberal arts college I wanted to obtain my M.B.A. from an acclaimed University. As soon as I visited and met with the UA EMBA staff, I knew this is where I belonged. I liked the blended format, combining the traditional classroom set-up in concert with a modern online hybrid program. Also, as a single working mom the once a month format met my very busy work and family schedule.
What course(s) have been most helpful to you in your current role at Community Health Systems?
I have really enjoyed Dr. King’s Leadership class. In my current management role having effective people skills is as important as understanding concepts. Everyone would bring their own perspective and approach to problem solving during our class debates. Helping you to look at a problem and how to solve it in a different way is invaluable.
What has been your favorite experience in HEMBA so far?
Networking. I enjoy going to class to see everyone. The camaraderie and how we look out for each other. When someone struggles there is someone on the team or in the class who can help.
How can an EMBA assist someone in the healthcare community?
One of the most important returns on investment has been taking a concept and applying it to a healthcare setting. During our discussion of Toyota, and visiting the Nissan Plant in Tennessee, I focused on front end registration processes and how to make it more efficient for our health system. It is important to consider the viewpoints from different industries and ask, “How can this be applicable to my industry?”
What advice would you give to someone considering an Executive MBA Program?
Can you manage the time commitment? Being selfish is okay, you are investing a lot of money. Also when looking at a university select a program that fits your needs. For me, I was looking at my career three years down the road. I set expectations for myself, the program and the University to make sure all were in alignment to fulfill my goals. I am very happy that I chose the Culverhouse Executive MBA Program at The University of Alabama.
Heather Martin is one of many healthcare professionals who have selected the Culverhouse EMBA. If you are in the healthcare field and would like to talk with one of our students or alumni in the clinical, pharmaceutical or consulting area, please contact us and we will be happy to arrange for a follow up contact about the program.
The next HEMBA Program will begin Thursday, August 13, 2015. For more information contact Cheryl Altemara at caltemara@cba.ua.edu or call 205.348.4501.
To enroll today click on www.emba.ua.edu.