Member Spotlight – Douglas Washington

Please tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare.

I grew up outside of Houston and in a small town called Lake Jackson. I am currently attending Brazosport College (BC) for my Bachelor’s in Health Service Management and concurrently attending Park University in Parkville, Missouri, for my Graduate Certificate in Project Management. I am incredibly excited to be graduating this coming May 14th and plan to finish my Master’s in Healthcare Administration with a concentration in Project Management at Park University by May of 2023.

It was in high school that I discovered my interest in pursuing a career in the healthcare industry. I was an active member of the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and later became an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). To be candid, I originally contemplated pursuing a career in nursing; however, after learning about BC’s baccalaureate degree in Health Services Management, I decided a career in healthcare administration would be a better fit for me. My decision to pursue a career in healthcare administration was reaffirmed as I progressed through the undergraduate and graduate curricula; became more involved in ACHE-SETC committees and events, and entered an Internship with HCA.

What sorts of things do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy spending time with my wife, Amanda, and my 15-month-old daughter, Aubrey! Otherwise, I love to play video games, read, and enjoy time at the local gun range.

What is your favorite ACHE memory or activity?

Although I have only been part of ACHE for just over a year, my attendance at the first annual leadership conference was the most memorable event experienced to date. Networking with notable leaders; sharing “war stories” with peers and learning from all the individuals around me were the 3 key takeaways from this two-day event.

How do you envision healthcare in the next 10 years?

While no one has a crystal ball and can predict the future with any certainty, I believe that the U.S. healthcare system is on the precipice of a paradigm shift. We will continue to see major advances in technology which will permit greater care to be delivered remotely. The need for large academic medical centers will give way to smaller micro-hospitals. I envision an expansion in the scope of practice for many allied health professionals thereby allowing them to deliver a greater degree of care inside and outside acute care facilities. I see the healthcare and related industries becoming more dependent on data analytics to help make informed decisions.

 

-Interview by Keyiara Ridyolph

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