The MHA program recently caught up with one of our MHA/MBA alumni, Bart LeFan, who completed the programs in May 2009. Learn how Bart transformed his future and career while at the Eccles School.

What was your path to the MHA program?  What were you doing before enrolling?  Where were you living?  Was this a change in career for you?

Before enrolling, I was a freelance opera singer and adjunct professor in Nashville, TN. I had the pleasure of singing in productions around the southeast and working with many great artists and fascinating people. I also enjoyed teaching college classes and working in higher education. However, after a few years, it became an unsustainable career path. I transitioned to an entry-level job in healthcare billing, which I pursued for two years while continuing to sing on the side. But I knew that in order to grow in my healthcare career, I needed to commit to the career path and enroll in an MHA program. The music world is also where I met my wife, whose faculty position at the U helped move me out west.

 What was your interest in earning an MHA? When did you enroll in your MHA relative to your MBA? 

I knew that an MHA was my best path to a career in healthcare management. As someone with a non-traditional employment history, pursuing the degree demonstrated my commitment to the industry and helped prepare me for the challenges that I would encounter.

Why did you decide to complete dual MBA/MHA degrees? What were you seeking from the MHA?  What was your interest in earning an MHA?

I knew from the beginning that I would pursue the dual degrees.  My experience in Nashville with the large hospital companies convinced me that having the dual degree would help separate me from other candidates and prepare me for the business side of healthcare.

When and where did you complete your internship? Any other important decision points?

I completed my internship in the University of Utah School of Medicine’s Division of Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat). I had the chance to work with amazing physicians who supported my education and taught me the fundamentals of practice management.

I graduated in 2009, just as the economy bottomed out.  Most hospital systems cancelled their Fellowship Programs, and job opportunities were limited.  I was fortunate to remain in Otolaryngology, take on further responsibilities and be involved in national societies – expanding my network and perspective.

What was your biggest challenge navigating the dual program?

In the early days of the program, the challenges revolved around scheduling all the required classes and in-demand electives within a limited time frame. The “old timers” in the program had classes on all parts of campus.

What was the biggest reward from completing the dual program?

Completing the dual program was one of my proudest moments. The biggest reward was the connections I made with fellow students and faculty. Those relationships continue today across the miles. Tangibly, the program set me on a new career path, increased my earning potential and allowed me to work “on the side of angels”.

What professional opportunities have you had since graduation?  How important has the MHA been to your career advancement?

Some of the most rewarding opportunities have been to serve on the boards of my professional societies. These volunteer efforts have expanded my network and exposed me to learn higher-level governance structures and decision-making.

What are you doing now?

In 2015, I moved to Indianapolis to be closer to family. I’m now serving as the Vice Chair of Clinical and Academic Administration for the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences at the Indiana University School of Medicine. I’m responsible for the physician practice, educational programs and research efforts for the only academic program in the state. I love the opportunity to work in academic medicine and influence the next generation of physicians, researchers and treatments.

I serve as a mentor and guest lecturer with the IUPUI MHA program. I hope to continue to pay forward what was shared with me by my mentors in Utah.  I’m also staying busy with our two children – staying involved in our local little league sports program and the Cub Scouts.