Clinical operations managers work in healthcare settings, where they oversee specific service areas in which they are knowledgeable. It is necessary to have specific training in the field being managed in order to become a clinical operations manager. A master’s degree, a nursing or medical doctor (MD) degree, or a doctor of philosophy degree are often required for these positions (PhD). A manager needs first-hand knowledge, so experience as a clinical worker is usually required. Individuals who want to work as a clinical operations manager must be well-versed in their field so that they can manage others, keep records, and implement policies.
Graduating from high school and earning an undergraduate degree are the first steps toward becoming a clinical operations manager. Courses of study vary depending on an individual’s specific goals for working as a clinical operations manager, but science, pre-medicine, psychology, and nursing are common degree paths. An upper-level degree is frequently required for a management position after completion of an undergraduate degree. A master’s degree in nursing, medical school, a PhD in psychology, or healthcare management are some of the areas of study. Because these fields of study are so diverse, the educational requirements for each differ significantly.
To work as a clinical operations manager, one must have prior experience in the field. Working as a clinician first, providing services to patients in a variety of settings, is required. An individual is ready to move into management after gaining a thorough understanding of how the system works from a clinical standpoint. Working as a nurse, physician, or mental health provider in a healthcare setting is one path to becoming a clinician. At this point, a desire to move away from clinical work and into management is required, as the job descriptions are vastly different, despite the fact that they are in the same field.
To advance from being a clinical worker to a management position, an individual must complete an application process and have his superiors recommend him. The healthcare setting has to feel good enough that an individual can create and follow through with organizational plans and lead a group of people as the manager. Other duties include budgeting, record-keeping, and collaboration with other members of management. In order to inspire others to work as a team, good communication skills and a positive attitude are essential.