I am convinced learning from the best is one of the key factors for success. Therefore, the choice for this MBA programme was not by chance but as the result of a critical comparison of numerous opportunities.
One of my motivations for applying to Frankfurt School was the vision of launching a comprehensive spine centre in northwest Switzerland. To accomplish this project and turn the idea into a real-life value-based strategic business success, I knew that besides my professional expertise in the field, I needed to gain business knowledge on how to prevail in a highly competitive environment.
Thanks to my clinical and scientific background and solid global network, I understand how important and profitable a translational approach is. Being convinced that the same is true in reaching the most meaningful and applicable results in management, my goal was to perceive the highest state-of-the-art knowledge and translate this into practice.
After thoroughly and systematically reviewing the options for an MBA programme with a specific focus on healthcare, there was no doubt for me: I had to apply to Frankfurt School of Finance and Management. From the first moment on, I was thrilled and convinced that the MBA International Healthcare Management would bring value to my career.
The first two modules, “Introduction to Business & Healthcare Systems” and “Managing Finance Resources”, were more challenging than expected. I needed to do them online due to the ongoing COVID situation and travel limitations required by my hospital. However, the virtual lectures were mesmerising thanks to Prof. Hess and Prof. Sibbel’s excellent teaching abilities. Despite the online situation and thanks to the brilliant organisation with plenty of options like the breakout sessions and the team assignments, I got to know my classmates very well, so later in Module 3, “Strategic Management Marketing”, I felt like coming home to a family.
The module in Baltimore at the John Hopkins University and the module in Singapore with a focus on “Quality Process and Value Chain Management”, as well as the submission of the Business Plan, seem to be far beyond already. The former ones provided an excellent insight into completely different healthcare systems and their worlds. This behind-the-scenes look allows me to critically review their pros and cons as well as pitfalls.
I am convinced that every single element of the studies so far is of great value and is an irreplaceable puzzle piece of a superordinated project. Exemplary: The great choice of an exclusive faculty, inspiring guest lectures, site visits and meetings with alumni…each with invaluable benefit, assembling into a whole at the very end.
Furthermore, one of the great advantages of my situation was the opportunity to implement new knowledge immediately in projects of my daily routine. Learning and listening about optimised strategies and management approaches stimulates me to question my own and the known systems. This leads to an inevitable critical analysis, which can be very productive.
The London Module coordinated by Prof. Schlüchtermann, focused on supply, facility management and IT. The module addressed the flow of tangible goods within a healthcare organisation. We were introduced to principles in logistics, purchasing and facility management.
The local guest speakers guaranteed first-hand insights into the UK healthcare system. The first-time implementation of a real case study into the module was an adventurous experiment which challenged not only the scholars. I therefore strongly believe that once more, this was a comprehensive learning experience for life. I have gained significant competence in understanding the key role of information exchange and partnership in the medical field as well as how structures and systems can force specific behaviour. This knowledge serves as a solid foundation for management-focused, future decision-making in improving the healthcare value chain and IT-based solutions in my immediate surroundings. Finishing this module and facing the fact that our last module will be in Riyadh in the following months has made me feel a bit wistful but grateful for this experience.
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