What does a clinical manager do?
Clinical managers are responsible for making sure their facility is operating its highest potential by overseeing the day-to-day management activities. They develop and implement objectives, policies, and procedures for their departments and educate employees about changes. They manage and evaluate the quality of work of administrative, clinical, clerical, and professional staff. They establish development activities and education efforts for staff members. They create and monitor budgets, manage recruitment, and organize activities with other management personnel. Clinical managers also handle purchasing decisions and communications efforts.
What kind of training does a clinical manager need?
Clinical managers typically need at least a bachelor degree in medical services administration, healthcare administration, or other related field. Some employers prefer candidates with a master degree and sufficient work experience. Many clinical managers begin their career in entry-level positions and advance to management positions as they gain the essential skills and experience. Prospective clinical managers typically complete courses in healthcare financial management, organization and management in healthcare, healthcare law and ethics, case management, healthcare administration, and information systems for healthcare. Many aspiring clinical managers complete internships while pursuing their education to gain practical experience in the field. Many employers provide some on the job training to new clinical managers to enable them to learn the practices and procedures of the employer. Clinical managers must keep their skills up to date and stay abreast on advancements in the field. They regularly complete continuing education and additional training throughout their careers.
What are the prospects for a career as a clinical manager?
Employment of clinical managers is expected to grow faster than average for all professions, increasing 16% from 2006 to 2016 (1). The growth and expansion of the healthcare industry will drive job growth.
Job prospects should be good especially for clinical managers with extensive experience and strong management skills. Many job openings will arise from the need to replace clinical managers that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do clinical managers make?
As of December 2009, the average annual salary for clinical managers is $60,000; average annual clinical manager salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a clinical manager is a great choice for people with a strong interest in managing the everyday tasks of many different healthcare facilities. Clinical managers must have a solid understanding of management procedures and the operation of a variety of healthcare establishments. Patience, assertiveness, effective decision-making, flexibility, and critical thinking are essential characteristics. Clinical managers must be able to lead others, delegate tasks, and motivate others to implement activities. They must be open to a variety of opinions and have excellent communication.
