Health Services Administration Vs Healthcare Administration
Introduction
Overview
Education Requirements
Typical Job Duties
Career Opportunities
Employment Outlook
Salary Expectations
Professional Organizations
Conclusion
References
Health Services Administration Vs Healthcare Administration
Introduction
The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and there are various career paths that one can pursue. Two of the most popular options are Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration. These two fields may sound similar, but they have distinct differences in terms of education requirements, job duties, and career opportunities. In this article, we will take a closer look at these two fields to help you determine which one is the best fit for your career goals.Overview
Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration are both essential components of the healthcare industry. Health Services Administration focuses on the delivery and management of health services, while Healthcare Administration focuses on the business side of healthcare. Health Services Administration covers a broad range of areas such as hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. Healthcare Administration, on the other hand, focuses on the financial, legal, and administrative aspects of healthcare organizations.Education Requirements
To pursue a career in Health Services Administration, you will need to obtain a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, health services administration, or a related field. A master's degree in health administration (MHA) or business administration (MBA) is also desirable for higher-level positions. However, some entry-level positions only require a bachelor's degree. Healthcare Administration also requires a bachelor's degree, with a focus on business administration or healthcare management. A master's degree in healthcare administration or business administration is preferred by employers for higher-level positions.Typical Job Duties
Health Services Administrators are responsible for managing healthcare facilities, ensuring compliance with regulations, developing policies, and supervising staff. They oversee patient care, manage budgets, and negotiate contracts with insurance providers. Healthcare Administrators, on the other hand, manage the finances, operations, and marketing of healthcare organizations. They develop strategic plans, manage budgets, and oversee human resources. Healthcare Administrators also work with physicians and other healthcare professionals to improve patient care and streamline processes.Career Opportunities
Health Services Administration offers a wide range of career opportunities, including hospital administrators, nursing home administrators, and clinic managers. Health Services Administrators can also work for insurance providers, government agencies, or consulting firms. Healthcare Administration offers similar career opportunities as Health Services Administration. However, Healthcare Administrators may also work for pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers, or other healthcare-related businesses.Employment Outlook
The employment outlook for Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration is positive. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in these fields is projected to grow by 18% between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for healthcare services is increasing due to an aging population and advances in medical technology.Salary Expectations
The salary expectations for Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration vary depending on several factors such as experience, education, and location. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for Medical and Health Services Managers was $100,980 in May 2019. The highest 10 percent earned more than $189,000 per year, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $58,820 per year.Professional Organizations
There are several professional organizations for Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration professionals, including the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA), and the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM). These organizations offer networking opportunities, continuing education, and professional development resources.Conclusion
In conclusion, Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration are both rewarding career paths in the healthcare industry. Health Services Administration focuses on the delivery and management of health services, while Healthcare Administration focuses on the business side of healthcare. Both fields require a bachelor's degree, with a master's degree preferred for higher-level positions. The employment outlook for these fields is positive, and there are several professional organizations that offer networking and professional development opportunities.References
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020). Medical and Health Services Managers. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htmAmerican College of Healthcare Executives. (n.d.). About ACHE. Retrieved from https://www.ache.org/about-acheHealthcare Financial Management Association. (n.d.). About HFMA. Retrieved from https://www.hfma.org/about-hfma/who-we-are.htmlNational Association of Healthcare Access Management. (n.d.). About NAHAM. Retrieved from https://www.naham.org/about-nahamFrequently Asked Questions about Health Services Administration vs Healthcare Administration
What is Health Services Administration?
Health Services Administration focuses on the management and organization of healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. This field requires knowledge in healthcare policies, finance, human resources, and technology management.
What is Healthcare Administration?
Healthcare Administration is a broader term that encompasses Health Services Administration. It includes the management and organization of healthcare facilities, as well as the planning and delivery of healthcare services. This field requires knowledge in healthcare policies, finance, human resources, technology management, and patient care.
What are the job prospects for Health Services Administration?
The job prospects for Health Services Administration are good, with an expected growth rate of 18% from 2018 to 2028. The demand for healthcare services is increasing as the population ages, which creates a need for more healthcare facilities and administrators.
What are the job prospects for Healthcare Administration?
The job prospects for Healthcare Administration are also good, with an expected growth rate of 18% from 2018 to 2028. The demand for healthcare services is increasing as the population ages, which creates a need for more healthcare facilities and administrators.
What are the educational requirements for Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration?
Most entry-level positions in Health Services Administration and Healthcare Administration require a bachelor's degree, though some higher-level positions may require a master's degree. Degrees in healthcare administration, business administration, or public health are common in this field.
