Solve Real World Healthcare Problems

With a 50 year tradition, the "Minnesota Way" of problem solving is a hallmark of the Minnesota MHA program. It combines a rigorous, practical method of solving problems and student interaction with top-level alumni executives in Minnesota healthcare organizations.

The "Minnesota Method" of problem solving is taught in the second semester in the program in PubH 6544, Principles of Problem Solving in Health Care Organizations. The class is split into small case presentation groups of 3-5 members, with each group mentored by an executive during the semester.

Students apply the problem solving approach to two case scenarios. In addition to writing up the cases, students role-play as CEOs, physicians, board members, and other persons represented in the cases during presentations in front of their executive mentor. The mentor provides feedback for how the students can improve their problem solving approaches and strategies as health care leaders.

The student groups also solve a current problem in the organization of their executive mentor during the semester. The project culminates in both a written report and a formal presentation to their mentor and other executives in the organization.

Students draw upon the extensive Minnesota MHA alumni network for information when conducting their case research. Students not only gain access to the experience of hundreds of senior executives but also form professional relationships that will last a lifetime. They develop an appreciation for the Minnesota MHA alumni network and prepare themselves to play a role in the mentoring of future healthcare leaders.

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