Few topics in the business world get MBA grads pulsating like big data does. Coupled with the cacophony of innovation in the digital healthcare space, it’s an enticing area of work.Among the greatest MBA job opportunities emerging in healthcare are around innovation, say careers experts. Digital tech is helping to cut costs, increase efficiency and improve patient care. “It’s poised to have a major impact,” says Kim MacPherson, associate director for health management at UC-Berkeley’s Haas School of Business.
As more data flows from everything from fitness apps like Fitbit and Jawbone to clinical drug trials, analytics provide a wealth of knowledge and a source of innovation for care providers, according to McKinsey & Company, the consultancy. “It has potential uses for prevention, disease management and wellness,” says Federico Lega, director of the masters in international healthcare management at SDA Bocconi School of Management.
AstraZeneca, Roche, Google and McKesson are among the companies exploring health data.
Yet there are concerns around privacy and security. Cyber criminals stole last year records relating to 80 million patients from Anthem, the second largest US health insurer.
In healthcare, big data is still in its infancy. “We are just beginning to realize the potential of digital innovation,” says Dr Rainer Sibbel, professor of international health management at Frankfurt School of Finance & Management.
Below, BB looks at five MBAs helping to unlock the potential of health data.
Jonathon Feit, CEO, Beyond Lucid Technologies and Tepper School MBA
Two weeks ago, Jonathon Feit was at the JPMorgan Healthcare Conference. Rubbing shoulders alongside execs from biotech’s Shire, Celgene and Allergan in San Francisco, it was a fitting spot for a man behind a start-up focused on the flow of healthcare data.
Founded in 2009, Concord-based Beyond Lucid Technologies makes software for capturing and transmitting electronic patient records. The company’s tech connects ambulances with hospitals so they can receive patient information before arrival, saving time and ultimately improving care.
“It closes a critical set of gaps,” says Jonathon, who has a military and clinical background. “Reading pieces of paper when you need to be taking care of a patient is a problem.”
The tech is used in 18 US states and the company has raised around $1 million in venture capital. Key to Beyond Lucid’s success has been the Tepper School of Business, where Jonathon and his co-founder, Christian Witt, met.
They used the MBA program to craft and perfect their business plan. “We ended up with a year and a half worth of market research,” Jonathon smiles. He still refers to his b-school books, which he has stacked at home, to the annoyance of his wife. “She’s not a fan of this.”
Blake Long, chief clinical officer, Mosaic Health Solutions and Fuqua MBA
With several years’ experience as a physician, Blake Long knows better than most the impact of the digital revolution on healthcare.
After gaining an MD in medicine in 1986 and working across the US medical sector, he switched to the business side, where he is pioneering innovation.
Last year he joined, as chief clinical officer, Mosaic Health Solutions, which invests in ground-breaking healthcare start-ups. The Durham-based firm’s portfolio includes AxisPoint, which uses analytics to engineer health management, and TouchCare, which lets patients see doctors remotely through an app.
He is also an angel investor and life sciences due diligence lead for Ariel Southeast Angel Partners, a fund based in Savannah, Georgia.
Blake says digital is “powering both the ability to collect meaningful information about patients in real time, and the analytics to impact the health of individuals”.
In 2014 he graduated from the MBA at Duke’s Fuqua School of Business. Now, he is a “translator between business and medicine, which has allowed me to assume roles in healthcare innovation,” Blake says.
Vikas Shrivastava, sales operations, Alcon (Novartis) and LUMS MBA
Vikas Shrivastava spends most days feverishly analyzing big data to develop business insights for Alcon of Novartis, the global pharmaceuticals group.
The Swiss drugmaker has lead the industry’s data deluge. It most recently teamed up with tech company Qualcomm to develop an inhaler that beams data to a cloud network. Novartis is also developing a smart contact lens that could monitor diabetics’ glucose levels.
Such whizzy innovations are what get Vikas out of bed in the morning. “Healthcare keeps me excited….Because I am part of an industry which brings better technology to doctors and eventually patients,” says the MBA, who has spent more than a decade working with medical devices and surgical equipment.
Previously he was at rival big pharma groups including Merck and Johnson & Johnson of the US.
A pharmacist by trade, he first graduated with a Bachelor of Pharmacy in India before earning an MBA at the UK’s Lancaster University Management School.
Vikas says the degree has given him the tools to move into more senior management posts: “I am now eligible for a lot [more] jobs.”
Artem Andrianov, CEO of Cyntegrity and Cass Business School MBA
Artem Andrianov founded Cyntegrity, which offers risk-based monitoring services for clinical trials, the same year he graduated from London’s Cass Business School, in 2013.
“We see enormous potential in applying risk information and data analytics to clinical research,” says Artem. “By means of smart data evaluation, pharma companies can reduce patient risk and the cost of clinical monitoring.”
Data sharing in trials has led to breakthroughs, such as the discovery that desipramine, an anti-depressant, has potential uses in curing types of lung cancer.
The start-up, which is based in Frankfurt and is backed by Commerzbank, could also make clinical trials safer for patients. “Safety risks are controlled by smart data-engines,” Artem says. “It checks sloppiness and misconduct, and can even identify fraudulent behaviour.”
The MBA degree has helped him transition from a background in software development at leading healthcare companies in Germany, including Cardinal Health and ERT.
“The MBA provided me with the necessary tools for planning and launching a technology start-up,” he says.
Student Reviews
Best Journalism school in Europe
When I first stepped onto the campus of City, University of London, I knew I was in for a ride - and not just on the Tube! With its vibrant energy and an impressive repertoire of programs, City U became my home away from home.
The Journalism program was kind of a big deal. Rumour was that we were the best in Europe!
The lecturers were not just experts in their field; they’re practically journalistic royalty. They were invested, passionate, and had a knack for turning the most flat press release into a riveting news story. With their guidance, I’ve learned to navigate the chaotic world of media like a pro.
The campus was a melting pot of every culture, being that we had such a diverse international crowd.
Being in the heart of London, I had the world at my fingertips - there was always a new corner to explore, a hidden gem of a cafe to discover, or a street performer!
City, University of London wasn't just a university; it was a chapter in my life story that I’ll never forget.
Learning environment
The teacher-learner ration is manageable, giving each learner a chance to gain personal attention. It is also easier following up on the progress of a student, as the numbers per class is not large. the conducive environment for learning includes clean classes, standard desks, world class instructional facilities and the opportunity to engage lecturers even after their sessions. The team spirit at City is above board, with learners getting chance to learn both from instructors and colleagues. This is the university of choice; the place to be.
Classes
I liked that each class had a manageable number of learners, making the professor-learner ratio favor knowledge acquisition. I also liked that study schedules were manageable, and not overwhelming. The focus on talents and gifts even within the learning environment makes it possible for learners to achieve the best of their potential, and this has worked to the advantage of those that have schooled at City, University of London
Classes
The diversity at City University facilitates interactions and is a direction toward the unity of the world. The classes are well built to match the number and needs of all students regardless of the elements of diversity that set people apart. The use of technology in delivery makes learning even more interesting and achievable. At City University there is no distinction pegged on the issues that make people unique.
professors
The team of lecturers at the Uiversity are well experienced. Their level of insight and the methodologies of delivery works for the interes of the leaeners. My learning experience was largely boosted by the level of knowledge of the professors at the institution, and their passion to transfer the same to learners. I appreciate every class I attended because of the level of insight I was able to gather
The best university I’ve been to
The campus and the people I've met have made it a wonderful experience. I was reared in a small town with a graduating class of only 88 individuals, so moving to City University was a huge adjustment for me. My dorm has more residents than my whole high school combined! I enjoy the atmosphere here, and everyone is so friendly. Outstanding academic options and a stunning campus. Really great from beginning to end. The educators genuinely love what they do, and the students are ready to learn. On or around college, there is always something to do with friends, and the social scene is particularly warm.
Bayes Business School
As a student at City university attending Bayes Business School I would totally recommend choosing this university as the experience is exceptional with great social networking opportunities . Professors are significantly helpful, delivering with excellence and professionalism. Everyone is happy to help and make you feel welcomed in such an esteem university as City, offering exceptional development and guidance through out the course.
Economics and Politics
Incredibly amazing university, the way they polish students and help them boost their morale and think intellectually is worthwhile. Many universities have international partnerships to allow exchanges between their students. The most obvious subjects for these opportunities would be those that involve languages, and the study of people and places.
Clinical biology
I really like it it’s perfect for me with not too many people and not too few either. All the modules are amazing. I love the toy bar. I love all the societies that I’ma part of. Especially the colour Bollywood society
Unlocking My Potential at City University London
My time at City University London was truly transformative. The university's vibrant community and diverse extracurricular activities allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend beyond the classroom. I was impressed by the university's commitment to academic rigor, character development, and personal growth, which created an ideal environment for me to reach my full potential. The research-driven and industry-relevant curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in international business, while the dedicated faculty and staff offered invaluable guidance and support. I feel grateful for the well-rounded education and holistic experience that City University London offered, preparing me for success in my career and beyond.
Rather interesting
The academics are tough, but in a good way. The professors are experts in their fields, so you know you’re learning from the best. They push you to think for yourself and really dive deep into the subjects. But it’s not all about hitting the books; London itself is like an extension of the campus. You’ve got museums, galleries, and just the general buzz of the city to keep you inspired.
Urban campus life
At the University of London, I have experienced dynamic and diverse academic environment where I was challenged by rigorous coursework. You will have the flexibility to choose from the wide range of courses, participate in numerous extra-curricular activities and take advantage of the many opportunities
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