Student Perspectives on Health Policy and Hospital Management Competencies in the Era of Healthcare Transformation

Abstract

Healthcare transformation in the digital era has increased the demand for healthcare managers who possess competencies in health policy and hospital management. Higher education institutions, particularly Hospital Administration programs, play an important role in preparing students to face the complexity of healthcare systems and organizational changes. This study aimed to analyze student perspectives on health policy and hospital management competencies in the era of healthcare transformation. This research used a quantitative descriptive design involving undergraduate students of Hospital Administration programs. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire distributed online to assess students’ perceptions regarding competencies in health policy, leadership, communication, healthcare quality management, ethics, and managerial functions. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, including frequency distribution and percentage analysis. The results showed that most students had positive perceptions regarding the importance of health policy and hospital management competencies in supporting healthcare service transformation. Communication skills, leadership abilities, and healthcare quality management were identified as the most important competencies needed by future healthcare managers. In addition, students perceived that competency-based learning contributed positively to improving managerial readiness in healthcare settings. However, several respondents indicated the need for greater practical exposure and healthcare policy implementation experience during the learning process. The study concludes that Hospital Administration students generally demonstrate good awareness and understanding of health policy and hospital management competencies in the context of healthcare transformation. Strengthening competency-based curricula, leadership development, and practical learning experiences are necessary to improve student readiness as future healthcare managers