Applied Problem-Solving in Healthcare Management
Applied Problem-Solving in Healthcare Management is a practical textbook devoted to
developing and strengthening problem-solving and decision-making leadership competencies
of healthcare administration students and healthcare management professionals. Built upon
the University of Minnesota Master of Healthcare Administration Program's Problem-Solving
Method, the text describes the "never assume" mindset and the structured method that drives
evidence-based, action-oriented problem-solving. The "never assume" mindset requires
healthcare leaders to understand themselves and their stakeholders, and to engage in waves of
divergent and convergent thinking. This structured method guides the problem solver through
the phases of defining, studying, and acting on complex interrelated organizational problems
that involve multiple root causes. The book also describes how the Problem-Solving Method is
complementary to quality improvement methods and can be used in healthcare organizations
along with Lean, Design Thinking, and Human-Centered Design.
Providing step-by-step instruction including useful tips, tools, activities, and case studies, this
effective resource demonstrates the utility of the method for all types of health organization
settings including health systems, hospitals, clinics, population health, and long-term care. For
students taking health management, capstone, and experiential learning courses, including
internship and residency projects, this book allows them to test and apply their problem-solving
and decision-making skills to real-world situations. Beyond the classroom, it is an indispensable
resource for organizations seeking to enhance the problem-solving skills of their workforce.
The authors of the text have nearly 75 years of combined experience in healthcare management,
leadership, and professional consulting, and teaching and advising healthcare administration
students in classrooms, on student capstone, internship and residency projects, and case
competitions. Synthesizing their expertise, this text serves as a guide for those who wish to
strengthen their problem-solving abilities to systematically identify, analyze, study, and solve
pressing organizational challenges in healthcare settings.