What helped you transition into the health insurance industry?
The SEAK conference was the start! The conference opened my eyes to the non-clinical areas in which I could make a positive impact on patient care. In addition, my past strong clinical background, utilization and quality experience, and patient advocacy were instrumental.
Once I was hired into the health insurance industry, I received a very basic and not very helpful corporate training. Realizing that I would require more support, I quickly sought out excellent mentors that could teach and guide me. I also sought feedback often. I volunteered to join multiple committees at the regional and corporate levels, not only to learn more about the industry, but also to become more visible and make an impact on current and future policies, procedures, and programs.
Q. How can physicians working in non-clinical positions in the health insurance industry truly make a difference in the lives of patients and the public?
It is important that physicians are engaged in the business decisions regarding health insurances. Our clinical voice can have major and positive impacts. Physician leadership can improve patient’s satisfaction and their quality health while decreasing hospital readmissions and un-necessary costs. Our role in health insurance is also important in bridging a positive relationship with the clinical physicians, providers, and hospitals with the common goal of increasing quality of care.
Q. What does the health industry look for in a physician transitioning from a clinical position?
Health insurance industry, in general, looks for those physicians with:
- 5+ years clinical experience
- Unrestricted and current license and board certification
- Utilization and quality involvement experience – does not have to be extensive
- Good to excellent computer skills
- Excellent communication (written and verbal) skills
- Willing to transition into health insurance industry and learn quickly
Opportunities Available for Physicians in the Health Insurance Industry
Teresa Ramos, MD
Dr. Ramos will discuss her successful career transition into the health insurance industry. She will review the types of health insurance products and the impact of the Affordable Care Act. Dr. Ramos will explain the types of positions available for physicians, opportunities for advancement, work style changes, what insurance companies are looking for in a physician, the CV application and interview process, and available compensation. Dr. Ramos will offer physicians practical information and insight into the many benefits of working in the health insurance industry.
Teresa Ramos, MD is lead medical director, northern division Medicare Operations, for Humana Insurance Company. She received her BS from the University of Michigan, and her MD from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. She is a 2010 alumna of the SEAK Non-Clinical Careers for Physicians Conference.