Healthcare administrators play a crucial role in managing the operations of healthcare facilities, ensuring the smooth functioning of the organization. They are responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising the delivery of healthcare services. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to become a healthcare administrator in Tennessee.

## What is a Healthcare Administrator?

Healthcare administrators, also known as healthcare executives or healthcare managers, are professionals who oversee the daily operations of healthcare facilities. They work closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of healthcare services.

Their responsibilities may include:

- Developing and implementing policies and procedures to improve the quality of healthcare services.

- Managing budgets and financial resources.

- Recruiting, hiring, and training staff.

- Analyzing data and making decisions based on healthcare trends.

- Ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and laws.

- Collaborating with other healthcare organizations and stakeholders.

## Where Does a Healthcare Administrator Work?

Healthcare administrators can work in various healthcare settings, including:

- Hospitals

- Clinics

- Nursing homes

- Assisted living facilities

- Rehabilitation centers

- Healthcare consulting firms

- Health insurance companies

- Government agencies

## Requirements to Become a Healthcare Administrator in Tennessee

To become a healthcare administrator in Tennessee, you need to fulfill certain education and legal requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the specific job and employer, but the following are generally expected:

1. Education: Most healthcare administrator positions require a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or a related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree in healthcare administration or a related field.

2. Experience: While not always required, having relevant work experience in the healthcare industry can be beneficial. Many healthcare administrators start their careers in entry-level positions and work their way up.

3. Licensure: In Tennessee, healthcare administrators are not required to have a specific license. However, some positions may require certification from professional organizations, such as the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) or the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA).

4. Skills: Healthcare administrators should have strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. They must also be knowledgeable about healthcare regulations, financial management, and healthcare technology.

## Where Can I Find Healthcare Administrator Classes in Tennessee?

If you're interested in pursuing a career as a healthcare administrator in Tennessee, Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. Dreambound offers a wide range of healthcare administrator classes in Tennessee, including:

- [Operator Training in Memphis, TN](https://dreambound.com/view/operator-training-memphis-tn)

- [Operator Training in Nashville, TN](https://dreambound.com/view/operator-training-nashville-tn)

Dreambound can help you find classes near you and provide valuable information on program duration, cost, and accreditation. Visit [Dreambound's website](https://dreambound.com/) to explore the available options and kickstart your journey towards becoming a healthcare administrator in Tennessee.

## How do I get my Healthcare Administrator certification?

Becoming a certified healthcare administrator can open up a world of opportunities in the healthcare industry. Not only does it validate your skills and knowledge in healthcare administration, but it also helps you stand out from the competition when applying for jobs. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a healthcare administrator and obtaining your certification, here are the steps you need to take:

### Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree

The first step towards becoming a certified healthcare administrator is to obtain a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or a related field. Many colleges and universities offer programs specifically tailored to healthcare administration, providing you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in this field. It's important to choose a reputable institution that is accredited and recognized by the industry.

### Step 2: Gain Relevant Work Experience

While a bachelor's degree is essential, practical experience is equally important when it comes to healthcare administration. Many certification programs require a certain amount of work experience in a healthcare setting before you can apply. This could include working in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities. Look for entry-level positions or internships that allow you to gain experience in various aspects of healthcare administration, such as medical records management, financial administration, or human resources.

### Step 3: Choose a Certification Program

Once you have obtained your bachelor's degree and gained some work experience, it's time to choose a certification program. There are several organizations that offer certifications for healthcare administrators, including the American College of Healthcare Administrators (ACHCA), the Professional Association of Healthcare Office Management (PAHCOM), and the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM).

Research each organization and their certification requirements to determine which program aligns best with your career goals and interests. Some programs may require you to pass an exam, provide documentation of your education and work experience, and pay a certification fee. It's important to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of each certification program before proceeding.

### Step 4: Prepare for the Certification Exam

Once you have chosen a certification program, it's time to start preparing for the certification exam. This exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in healthcare administration, and passing it is a crucial step towards obtaining your certification. There are various resources available to help you prepare for the exam, such as study guides, practice exams, and online courses. It's important to dedicate enough time to studying and reviewing the material to ensure you are well-prepared on exam day.

### Step 5: Take and Pass the Certification Exam

After you have thoroughly prepared for the certification exam, it's time to schedule and take the exam. This exam is typically conducted at an approved testing center and may be computer-based or paper-based, depending on the certification program. The exam will cover various topics related to healthcare administration, including healthcare laws and regulations, financial management, human resources, and healthcare operations.

Passing the certification exam is a significant achievement and a major step towards becoming a certified healthcare administrator. It demonstrates to potential employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in this role.

### Step 6: Maintain Your Certification

Obtaining your certification is just the beginning. To maintain your certification, you will need to meet certain requirements set by the certifying organization. This may include earning continuing education credits, attending conferences or workshops, or participating in professional development activities. It's important to stay up to date with the latest trends and advancements in healthcare administration to ensure your skills remain relevant.

## How do I get a job as a Healthcare Administrator?

Once you have obtained your healthcare administrator certification, it's time to start looking for a job in the field. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of finding a job as a healthcare administrator:

### Step 1: Update Your Resume and Cover Letter

Before you start applying for jobs, it's important to update your resume and cover letter to reflect your certification and any relevant work experience you have gained. Highlight your skills, education, and certifications in a clear and concise manner. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application, emphasizing the skills and experiences that match the requirements of the position.

### Step 2: Network and Attend Industry Events

Networking is a valuable tool when it comes to finding a job in any field, including healthcare administration. Attend industry events, conferences, and seminars to connect with professionals in the field and learn about job opportunities. Join professional associations and organizations related to healthcare administration to expand your network and access job boards or career resources.

### Step 3: Search for Job Opportunities

Utilize online job boards, professional networking sites, and healthcare-specific job websites to search for job opportunities in healthcare administration. Some popular job boards and websites include Indeed, LinkedIn, and HealthcareJobsite.com. Set up job alerts to receive notifications when new positions become available.

### Step 4: Tailor Your Applications and Follow Up

When applying for jobs, make sure to tailor your applications to each position you are applying for. Highlight the skills and experiences that are most relevant to the job requirements. Follow up with the hiring manager or recruiter after submitting your application to express your interest in the position and inquire about the status of your application.

### Step 5: Prepare for Interviews

If your application is successful, you may be invited for an interview. Prepare for the interview by researching the organization, reviewing common interview questions, and practicing your responses. Be prepared to provide examples of how you have demonstrated your skills and experience in healthcare administration. Dress professionally and arrive on time for the interview.

### Step 6: Negotiate Your Salary and Accept the Offer

If you are offered a job, take the time to carefully review the offer and negotiate your salary if necessary. Consider factors such as the location, benefits package, and growth opportunities when evaluating the offer. Once you have accepted a job offer, notify the hiring manager or recruiter and make arrangements for your start date.

## Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Healthcare Administrator

After becoming a certified healthcare administrator, there are various career paths and opportunities available to you. Here are some potential career paths you can explore:

### Hospital Administrator

Hospital administrators are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a hospital or healthcare facility. They work closely with medical staff, department heads, and other administrators to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of healthcare services. Hospital administrators may be responsible for managing budgets, implementing policies and procedures, and coordinating with external stakeholders.

### Nursing Home Administrator

Nursing home administrators are responsible for managing the operations of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. They ensure that residents receive high-quality care in a safe and welcoming environment. Nursing home administrators may be responsible for managing staff, developing and implementing care plans, and ensuring compliance with regulations and standards.

### Health Information Manager

Health information managers are responsible for overseeing the collection, storage, and security of patient medical records and health information. They ensure that patient information is accurate, accessible, and protected. Health information managers may also be responsible for implementing electronic health record systems, training staff on data privacy and security, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

### Healthcare Consultant

Healthcare consultants provide expert advice and guidance to healthcare organizations to help them improve their operations, financial performance, and patient outcomes. They may work independently or as part of a consulting firm. Healthcare consultants may be responsible for conducting assessments, developing strategic plans, and implementing process improvements.

### Health Services Manager

Health services managers are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing the delivery of healthcare services in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or public health agencies. They may be responsible for managing budgets, developing policies and procedures, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Health services managers may also be involved in strategic planning and business development.

### Medical Practice Manager

Medical practice managers are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of medical practices, such as physician offices or outpatient clinics. They may be responsible for managing staff, overseeing billing and coding processes, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Medical practice managers may also be involved in marketing and business development activities.

## Final Thoughts

Obtaining your healthcare administrator certification is a significant achievement that can open up a world of opportunities in the healthcare industry. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can start your journey towards becoming a certified healthcare administrator. Remember to stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the field, maintain your certification, and continue to expand your skills and knowledge. With dedication and hard work, you can build a successful career as a healthcare administrator in Tennessee or any other state.

How to Become a Healthcare Administrator in Tennessee

Operator

Healthcare Administration - Bachelor's

The Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a concentration in Healthcare Administration at ECPI University is a 100% online program that aims to prepare individuals for roles in healthcare administration. Here's an overview of the program:

Program Overview:

Healthcare administration professionals play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, managing various administrative tasks that are essential for the efficient delivery of healthcare services. They are responsible for tasks such as improving the quality of healthcare services, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, managing finances, budgeting, and maintaining healthcare records.

This program is designed to provide the education and skills necessary to pursue a career in healthcare administration, all delivered online for the convenience of students with busy schedules. Additionally, through ECPI University Online, students can complete their degree more rapidly with an accelerated year-round schedule, potentially earning their Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Science with a concentration in Healthcare Administration in as little as 2.5 years.

Program Outcomes:

The program encompasses various aspects of healthcare administration, including business and accounting skills relevant to the healthcare industry, health information systems, managed care systems, healthcare marketing, public health issues, and legal and ethical considerations in healthcare. There are two tracks available: acute care and long-term care, which prepare students for distinct roles within healthcare administration.

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are expected to:

Critically analyze research findings for evidence-based medicine and management practices.

Distinguish the legal and ethical standards of practice for healthcare administrators in various healthcare settings.

Understand the economic and financial aspects of the complex relationships between healthcare payers, institutions, and customers on a local, national, and international level.

The program is designed to prepare individuals for roles in healthcare administration by providing them with a strong foundation in both the healthcare industry and business administration.


Associate of Science in Health Administration Services

The Associate of Science in Health Administration Services (ASHAS) program at Colorado Technical University (CTU) is your gateway to mastering the administrative facets of the healthcare industry. This comprehensive program covers essential principles and techniques vital to thriving in healthcare administration.

Program Highlights:

Curriculum Focus: Dive into healthcare finance, human resources, administration, reimbursement systems, healthcare records, and ethical, legal, and regulatory aspects shaping healthcare organizations.

Licensure and Certification: Note that while this program doesn't lead to additional licensure or certification, CTU has not determined specific prerequisites for licensure or certification in any state or jurisdiction.

Program Learning Outcomes:

U.S. Healthcare System Mastery: Understand the organization, structure, and operation of the U.S. healthcare system, tackling challenges in serving diverse population groups.

Equity and Inclusion: Demonstrate awareness of equity, inclusion, and diversity in delivering health administration services.

Business Principles in Healthcare: Discuss the business principles integral to the administrative services of healthcare organizations.

Ethical and Legal Acumen: Summarize ethical and legal principles relevant to healthcare administration services.

Software Proficiency: Recognize software applications commonly used in healthcare administration sectors.

Healthcare Delivery Models: Describe the purpose of various healthcare delivery models.

Embark on a transformative journey in healthcare administration with the ASHAS program at CTU, equipping yourself with the skills needed to thrive in this dynamic field.


Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Health Care Management

Program Overview:

Credit Hours: A robust 180-credit hour program, including 66 general education credits, 86 business administration core credits, and 28 healthcare management concentration credits.

Focus Areas: Tailored for students seeking opportunities in the healthcare industry, the program provides foundational business knowledge with a focus on healthcare management principles, legal considerations, and ethical and regulatory issues.

Concentration Features:

Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Linking industry concepts with real-world examples, fostering applied learning and preparing students for diverse roles in the healthcare sector.

Professional Growth: Building on technical and soft skills to support students' professional development.

Accreditation and Alignments:

ACBSP Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Program and Concentration Learning Outcomes:

BSBA Program Learning Outcomes:

Demonstrate ethical decision-making skills within the business environment.

Apply analytical problem-solving to support organizational objectives.

Explain the relationship between information technology and business operations.

Calculate accounting and financial data for informed business decisions.

Analyze business organizations strategically in a global environment.

Examine how economics, finance, and law affect organizations globally.

Demonstrate knowledge and application of marketing principles.

BSBA-HCM Concentration Learning Outcomes:

Demonstrate the generalist business skills needed in healthcare management.

Embark on a journey at the intersection of business and healthcare with CTU's BSBA-HCM program, where industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills pave the way for success in the dynamic healthcare landscape.


Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management

Program Overview:

The Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management (BSHCM) at Colorado Technical University is a comprehensive 180-credit-hour program available both online and at the Colorado Springs campus. This program is crafted to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills for management roles in the healthcare industry. It comprises 51 credit hours of general education credits, 109 credit hours of core healthcare management classes, and 20 credit hours of electives to define a concentration area.

Program Highlights:

Management Focus: Tailored to prepare students for leadership positions in healthcare management, the program integrates fundamental principles and concepts of business administration into the healthcare field.

Current Issue Analysis: The curriculum emphasizes understanding and analysis of current issues in healthcare management, including reimbursement strategies, legislative and regulatory changes, and the interplay of cost, quality, and access to care.

Global Perspective: Students have the opportunity to compare healthcare delivery models, analyze the effectiveness of different models, and contrast the healthcare landscape in the United States with that of other countries.

Technology Integration: The program equips students to apply technology innovations to healthcare management, ensuring they stay abreast of the evolving technological landscape in the healthcare industry.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the BSHCM program, students will be able to:

Apply Ethical and Legal Principles: Apply ethical and legal principles to the management of a healthcare organization.

Technology Integration: Evaluate various technology applications in the healthcare business.

Financial Analysis: Analyze the various types of reimbursement received for healthcare services and their effect on the financial operations of a healthcare organization.

Model Comparison: Compare healthcare delivery models for their purposes and effectiveness.

Business Principles Application: Apply business principles to the management of a healthcare organization.

Embark on a transformative journey in healthcare management with CTU's BSHCM program, where leadership, ethics, and business acumen converge to shape the future of healthcare administration.


Bachelor's (BBA) - Healthcare Management

AIU® provides an industry-relevant BBA program with a specialized focus on Healthcare Management. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to pursue opportunities in the healthcare industry. The curriculum covers management issues in healthcare, including the environment of care, performance improvement, risk assessment, and the management of diverse workforces.

Core Curriculum: The targeted degree program aims to offer students a comprehensive understanding of both business management and the healthcare industry. The specialized curriculum enables students to develop a working knowledge of law and ethics in various healthcare topics. This equips them to address common legal and practical challenges facing patients, families, practitioners, caregivers, and society within the healthcare domain. The program concludes with a capstone experience from a healthcare management perspective. Core courses include:

Survey of Healthcare Management: Explores management issues in healthcare, covering the environment of care, performance improvement, risk assessment, and the management of diverse workforces.

Ethical and Legal Issues in Healthcare: Develops a working knowledge of law and ethics in various healthcare topics, addressing common legal and practical problems within the healthcare industry.

Healthcare Resource Allocation and Policymaking: Raises awareness of critical issues in American health policy, impacting healthcare managers in balancing costs, quality, and access to care in various settings.

Outcomes: The program aims to help students:

Integrate knowledge of core ACBSP business concepts (accounting, finance, statistics, economics, management, and marketing) to assess business circumstances.

Propose quantitative business solutions demonstrating critical and analytical thinking.

Collaborate in cross-functional teams using effective business techniques and strategies.

Navigate challenges in a global market involving international distribution and operations networks.

Share business recommendations and information through various communication formats.

Evaluate potential ethical and legal issues in contemporary business situations and propose appropriate resolutions.

Employ technology to effectively solve business problems and provide solutions.

Design business management practices based on healthcare principles and theories that support patient care and services.


Bachelor's (BHCM) – Healthcare Management

AIU’s Bachelor of Healthcare Management (BHCM) degree, with a specialization in Health Services Administration, is designed to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals capable of coordinating, planning, and directing evolving health services. The program addresses the needs of an aging population, technological advancements, and shifts in medical treatment. The Health Services Administration Management specialization allows students to explore administrative roles in various healthcare organizations, including hospitals, medical offices, insurance companies, and extended-care providers.

Coursework: The specialized curriculum of the BHCM program offers a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. healthcare system, covering its structure, operations, regulations, and management. Focused on administrative roles in healthcare services, the program spans multiple disciplines, preparing students for careers in healthcare management.

Outcomes: Graduates of the program are equipped to:

Support the implementation of technology applications within healthcare organizations.

Facilitate the distribution of information with internal and external healthcare stakeholders through professional written and oral communication.

Identify and mitigate risks in the healthcare industry, ensuring the delivery of quality patient care.

Resolve ethical and legal dilemmas in a healthcare environment while respecting organizational responsibilities and patient rights.

Analyze the relationships between costs, quality, and access to healthcare in the U.S. to formulate management practices and principles used in the current healthcare environment.


AS - Occupational Safety and Health

Overview

Safety has been at the core of CSU’s academic focus since the very beginning. Established in 1993, CSU’s occupational safety and health degree programs have set the foundation for safety education. Recognized as an industry leader, Columbia Southern University’s online Associate of Science in occupational safety and health is taught by experts in the safety field, many of whom are involved in advancing the industry on a national scale. This degree program reflects the relevant curriculum and instruction needed to explore a number of safety careers including health and safety manager, safety consultant, safety specialist and more.

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

Program Description

The Associate of Science in Occupational Safety and Health degree program provides students with a flexible, relevant, and current curriculum that includes opportunities for students to demonstrate a depth and breadth of knowledge in safety and health theory and technology necessary to function at the safety and health technician level in industry.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students should be able to do the following:

Examine the role of the safety and health technician within the organization and industry.

Explain basic workplace hazard analysis and control technologies and processes.

Identify laws, regulations, and standards that apply to the field of occupational safety and health.

Apply safety and health-related theory and technology to real-world situations.


AS Health Information Science/Health Care Admin

Overview

Columbia Southern University's Associate of Science in health information science/health care administration program helps students prepare for entry-level administrative positions within the health care industry. Through coursework focused on managing situations in various health care facilities, students can apply business principles to their health care environment and analyze the ethical implications of professional standards. Graduates with this degree should have a deep understanding of health care administrative responsibilities and the ability to improve efficiencies and quality in a health care setting.

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

Program Description

The Associate of Science in Health Information Science degree program is an entry-level program designed to provide students foundational knowledge in the field of health information science. The program offers a medical coding track that prepares students to become proficient medical billers and coders by providing the latest information related to medical coding, medical chart auditing, and insurance reimbursement. The program also offers a health care administration track that provides students with the education needed to pursue entry-level administrative management positions within the healthcare industry.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students should be able to do the following:

Conduct an information technology needs assessment of a healthcare organizational unit.

Apply ethical standards to working with health information.

Apply health information management technology best practices to the collection, maintenance, and transfer of medical records.

Execute the appropriate compliance and administrative standards in health information systems management.

Health Care Administration Concentration

Provides students with foundational knowledge in the field of health information science. The program offers a medical coding track that prepares students to become proficient medical billers and coders by providing the latest information related to medical coding, medical chart auditing, and insurance reimbursement.

Concentration Outcomes

Analyze the ethics of professional standards in health care organizations

Apply business principles to the health care environment


How to Become a Healthcare Administrator in Tennessee

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