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Graduate students enrolled in HAP 704 Contemporary Issues in Healthcare took a trip to Capitol Hill, getting the unique experience of witnessing Health and Human Services (HHS) policy experts present on the latest evidence-based legislation being passed. The trip, facilitated by Associate Professor in the Department of Health Administration and Policy Brenda Helen Sheingold, presented diverse policy topics that are highly relevant to current public health challenges.
“This face-to-face opportunity allowed master's in health systems management (MHA) students to explore current policy issues on a deeper level and ask questions to researchers directly. The visit enhanced their understanding beyond the walls of conventional classrooms in higher education,” said Sheingold, who is also the director of the Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA).
Students listened to professionals from the HHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE). Topics included policy evaluation, maternal and child health, updated telehealth services, racial and ethnic equity, health care delivery, and social determinants of health.
Speakers included
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Nancy DeLew, Associate Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health Policy
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Joel Ruhter, ASPE Analyst
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Bisma Sayed, ASPE Health Economist
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Steve Sheingold, Director of the Division of Health Care Financing Policy
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Lok Samson, Health Policy Analyst, ASPE Office of Health Policy
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Lanlan Xu, ASPE Public Health Advisor
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Rachael Zuckerman, Social Science Analyst in the Division of Health Financing Policy, Office of Health Policy
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Audrey McDowell, ASPE Manager and Program Analyst
In addition to domestic perspectives, speakers delved into the intricacies of international collaborations and global health laws.
“It was exciting to hear about how my country, Saudi Arabia, is working closely with the U.S. on the value-based approach to health care,” said Nayrooz Almansour, a student of Sheingold’s expected to graduate in the coming year.
The trip proved not only educational but also enlightening for students’ future career aspirations.
“Before the field trip, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do but this experience changed that. After, it has come to my attention that I think I see a future career for myself with HHS. Overall, I think this field trip was useful and helpful as it gave me a better idea of what kind of work I want to do in the future,” said Minnie Pham, another student and expected 2024 graduate.
Mason’s MHA in health systems management prepares future executives to assume leadership positions in health care organizations. Program courses and additional opportunities, such as interacting with federal lawmakers, allow students to graduate with intimate knowledge of the evolving health care system and health care management.