Role and Functions of Healthcare Managers in Modern Health

Introduction

One of the most exciting positions within the healthcare field is that of the healthcare manager, who is primarily responsible for the efficient and effective running of healthcare facilities. In order to become a healthcare manager, an individual must possess the necessary skills to handle personnel, develop and implement policy, and carry out the long-term goals of the healthcare facility. In most cases, a healthcare manager is required to have leadership ability and strong organizational qualities. The demand for healthcare managers across health facilities stems from the rapid growth of the health industry, which has created numerous job opportunities in this field. Because healthcare managers play a critical role in the effective running of a health facility, they have important management functions to implement.

The Role of Healthcare Managers

The role of healthcare managers typically varies depending on the health facility where the individual works. As a result, there has been a significant misconception regarding the role of a healthcare manager within a health facility. In a small facility, the healthcare manager is tasked with overseeing the entire operation. In a large hospital, however, the individual may oversee only one department and work collaboratively with other departments to ensure the smooth operation of the facility (Role of a Healthcare Manager, 2010).

Some of the most common functions of a healthcare manager include financial management, business decision-making, office management, and collaboration with physicians. Under financial management, healthcare managers work to provide the most suitable coverage at the lowest costs while keeping inventory and expenses in check. Office management involves duties that ensure the smooth running of daily operations — such as maintaining adequate staffing levels, ensuring equipment is in proper working condition, and generating daily reports. For the effective management of patient and client needs, a healthcare manager should also discuss important issues with physicians and make strategic decisions for the department or facility.

Specializations Within Healthcare Management

Because the role and function of a healthcare manager depends on the respective health facility, these professionals may need to specialize in several areas. First, a healthcare manager can become a clinical manager, developing and executing the policies of a particular department, monitoring staff performance, and developing departmental budgets. Second, the professional may specialize as a health information manager, responsible for maintaining and managing patient records. Third, a healthcare manager can serve as a group medical practice manager, working alongside a group of physicians and handling various business affairs such as personnel issues.

Conclusion

Healthcare managers and management play a critical function in the effectiveness of care delivery within a health facility. While the primary responsibility of healthcare managers centers on staff management, the most important overarching aspect of healthcare management is leadership. Together, these two elements — managing people and providing direction — define the foundation of effective healthcare administration.