Career path of CEO positions in healthcare facilities in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Licensed Healthcare Administrators hold the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in all of Puerto Rico hospitals and healthcare facilities. This profession is protected by law and by the college of healthcare administrators locally in Puerto Rico. To be able to become a CEO you must have a license that is obtained by the Puerto Rico Board of Healthcare Administrator. The academic and professional experience plays an important role in attaining the CEO positions. Methodology: A survey of 30 questions was administered to 25 of 68 CEO in health service organizations. Socio-demographic, educational and career path questions were asked. The study will be a non probabilistic sample on available subjects in a cross sectional study. Results: Ninety six percent of the CEO positions are occupied by men and 4% by women. Forty five percent obtained their degree in the 1980's while 33% graduated in the 70's. All the CEO's had a Master degree in Health Service Administration. Eighty eight percent obtained their degree from the University of Puerto Rico while 12% obtained their degree in the USA. Before becoming CEO 100% had occupied positions of junior and senior administrators in five previous jobs. Challenges encountered in the profession: 23% shortage of healthcare professional, 18% increase costs, 12% financial crisis. At the time of survey the actual years in the position of CEO was at least one year of 44%, at least 4 years was of 20% more than 16 years was 16%. Conclusion: Experience in five previous positions as junior or senior administrator, of at least three years in each position, was found to be a pattern before attaining the position of CEO. Administrative skills were predominant followed by operational and financial skills. CEO's in Puerto Rico have between 15 to 30 years of healthcare experience.