Medical Director

Lauri Leadley owns eight sleep clinics, where she hires and oversees many medical directors. Her fascination with sleep physiology began over three decades ago when she worked in the healthcare industry as a respiratory therapist. It was her second cancer diagnosis that she found herself struggling to fall asleep and stay asleep. Leadley knew that the lack of sleep negatively impacted her body’s ability to heal. A lifelong of poor sleep had taken its toll and continued until she sought treatment for her own sleep apnea.

Her personal health challenges over the years set her on the trajectory to become a sleep educator and open several sleep medicine practices in the state of Arizona. It’s her mission to help others overcome their sleep battles, too. She holds a certification in Clinical Sleep Health (CCSH) and a Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) credential. 

HealthcareDegree.com: What is something you wish the public understood about medical directors?

Leadley: The most important aspect of becoming a medical director is that you must be a doctor. This isn’t strictly an administrative position. It’s one only an MD or DO can fill. When you own a medical practice, or many, having a medical director at the helm can be a legal requirement in some states. 

Medical directors are physicians, and what they bring to the table is a combination of education, clinical experience, and leadership skills that ensure patient safety, quality of care, standard operating procedures, staff training, and expert supervision. The medical director also ensures healthcare regulatory compliance. In addition, medical directors are looking out for the patient, fostering patient-centered care and seamless coordination of care. Our medical directors are patient advocates!

HealthcareDegree.com: What advice would you give to an aspiring medical director?

Leadley: The best advice is first to complete your education and residency to become a doctor. If you aim to specialize in a particular area of expertise, e.g., sleep medicine, obesity medicine, chronic pain, etc., you can do that during this time. This will make you more marketable in the hiring process. 

Learn the ins and outs of running a medical practice according to your state guidelines. Gain a comprehensive understanding of healthcare compliance. Hone your organizational and people skills. Serving as medical director for a clinic or practice will require conflict resolution and will test your abilities in business, innovations, and strategies. The most important asset you can offer is that you genuinely care. 

As I noted before, being a medical director requires a level of patient advocacy. Let the patient become the priority—and learn how to communicate the best path forward in their personalized care journey.

While most medical directors are physicians, some may specialize in certain medicine or healthcare administration areas.  These specializations can include primary care, specialty care (such as cardiology or pediatrics), mental health, public health, and more. In addition to holding a medical degree and completing a residency program in their chosen specialty, medical directors may also opt to pursue further education in healthcare administration through an MBA, MHA, MPH, or other related degree program.

In addition to completing medical school, aspiring medical directors may pursue advanced degrees such as an MBA, MHA, or MPH to enhance their administrative and leadership skills. Admission requirements for these programs will vary but can typically include holding a bachelor’s degree, possessing relevant professional experience, submitting standardized test scores (like the GRE or GMAT), providing two to three letters of recommendation, writing a personal statement, potentially participating in an interview, and submitting academic transcripts from all previously attended institutions.

When researching additional degree programs for medical directors, it’s essential to consider the institution’s accreditation status. Accreditation is a voluntary process in which an external organization reviews and evaluates a school or program to ensure it meets predetermined standards of quality and excellence. This can give students confidence that their education will meet high standards and be recognized by employers and other institutions. 

MHA programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME) and the Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM). Most MBA programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). Lastly, MPH programs are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) and the Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME). 

Please note that all programs profiled below are to enhance a working physician’s leadership capabilities. Completing one of these programs alone is not sufficient to become a medical director.

University of North Carolina – Gilling School of Global Public Health

The journey in healthcare leadership starts with the residential master of health administration (MHA) program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This program, housed within the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, prepares future healthcare executives with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive innovation and excellence in healthcare management. Through a comprehensive curriculum covering healthcare finance, policy, quality improvement, and strategic planning, students gain a well-rounded education tailored to meet the demands of the dynamic healthcare landscape.

This program stands out for its renowned faculty members, who are experts in health policy and management, offering students valuable insights and mentorship throughout their academic journey. Students also benefit from experiential learning opportunities, including internships and practicum experiences, which provide hands-on training in real-world healthcare settings. 

• Location: Chapel Hill, NC
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)

University of Michigan – Stephen M Ross School of Business

The healthcare management concentration offered as part of the full-time MBA program at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business is at the intersection of business acumen and healthcare leadership. This specialized track is designed to equip students with a holistic understanding of the healthcare industry, blending essential business knowledge with in-depth insights into healthcare systems, policies, and strategies. The curriculum includes healthcare economics, operations, marketing, and innovation. Participants develop the expertise needed to drive transformative change and excel as leaders in healthcare organizations.

Students in this program engage with faculty members who bring a wealth of real-world experience and academic rigor to the program. By immersing themselves in experiential learning opportunities, case studies, and industry collaborations, students gain practical skills and strategic perspectives crucial for navigating the complexities of healthcare management. Graduates emerge from the program well-prepared to tackle the evolving challenges of the healthcare landscape, lead interdisciplinary teams effectively, and shape the future of healthcare delivery with innovation and impact.

• Location: Ann Arbor, MI
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

Johns Hopkins – Bloomberg School of Public Health

Aspiring medical directors looking to complete additional education can pursue a master’s of public health (at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. This program is aimed at cultivating adept public health leadership professionals and is structured to provide students with a comprehensive education in various facets of public health, including epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy and management, environmental health sciences, and social and behavioral sciences. Through a blend of theoretical instruction, practical applications, and research opportunities, students gain the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively address complex public health challenges.

At the forefront of public health education, this program boasts a faculty of esteemed scholars and practitioners actively engaged in cutting-edge research and policy development. Students benefit from a rich academic environment that encourages critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based decision-making. By engaging with diverse public health issues and gaining hands-on experience through internships and fieldwork, graduates are informed and competent public health professionals capable of driving positive change and advancing population health outcomes.

• Location: Baltimore, MD 
• Duration: 11 months to four years
• Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)

Harvard University – T.H. Chan School of Public Health 

Healthcare leaders can hone their skills with the master of healthcare management (MHCM) program at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. This innovative program is tailored to equip students with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry successfully. Through a blend of cutting-edge coursework, experiential learning opportunities, and access to renowned faculty, students embark on a transformative journey toward becoming effective and compassionate leaders in healthcare.

The faculty in this program prides itself on fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can engage with diverse perspectives, share insights, and build lasting connections within the healthcare field. With a curriculum that covers essential topics such as healthcare economics, quality improvement, leadership, and innovation, students are empowered to drive positive change and shape the future of healthcare delivery. By combining academic rigor with practical experience, students are prepared to tackle healthcare challenges with confidence, integrity, and a passion for improving healthcare outcomes for all.

• Location: Boston, MA 
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)

University of Pennsylvania – The Wharton School

Wharton’s healthcare management major integrates healthcare education into an MBA, offering a pioneering curriculum, a diverse student body, and access to extensive resources. With practical projects, mentorship, and faculty expertise, students are equipped to excel in healthcare leadership and innovation. The student body consists of approximately 72 students each year from various sectors, including consulting, medicine, entrepreneurship, and more, providing a rich blend of experiences and perspectives.

Key features of the program include a required first-semester course on the Health Care Field Application Project, internship preparation, mentorship opportunities, and collaboration with esteemed faculty specializing in health services delivery, economics, finance, law, and policy. Students also benefit from a wide array of resources, such as elective courses, networking opportunities through clubs and conferences, and connections with other schools within the university. 

• Location: Philadelphia, P 
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

University of Southern California – Keck School of Medicine 

The online master of public health (MPH) program offered by the University of Southern California (USC)  is for students looking to substantially impact public health and healthcare. This program, housed in a top-ranked medical school with renowned faculty, provides a comprehensive curriculum covering key areas such as biostatistics, epidemiology, community and global health, and more. The online format allows students to engage in state-of-the-art education without needing campus residencies, making it an ideal choice for those requiring a flexible learning environment.

Students in this program receive personalized attention, mentorship from esteemed public health leaders, and guidance on practicum placements, ensuring a tailored educational experience that prepares graduates to lead professional lives in public health effectively. The program’s emphasis on practical application through hands-on practicum experiences, combined with a curriculum designed to enhance core competencies and leadership skills, equips students with the necessary tools to address local, national, and international public health challenges.

• Location: Los Angeles, CA
• Duration: Four semesters
• Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)

Indiana University Indianapolis – Richard M Fairbanks School of Public Health

Indiana University’s Fairbanks School of Public Health offers a master of health administration (MHA) for students seeking healthcare leadership roles. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of healthcare management effectively. With a focus on practical learning experiences and a robust curriculum covering healthcare economics, policy, quality improvement, and strategic management, graduates are well-prepared to drive positive change in healthcare organizations.

This program features a supportive learning environment, expert faculty guidance, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. The emphasis on real-world application through internships, capstone projects, and collaboration with healthcare organizations ensures that graduates are equipped with the tools to address contemporary challenges in healthcare administration. 

• Location: Indianapolis, IN 
• Duration: 15 months
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)

Northwestern University – School of Professional Studies

At Northwestern University, students can earn a master’s of science in healthcare administration entirely online. This prestigious program is designed to hone students’ expertise in healthcare administration. Led by executive-level instructors with extensive experience in various healthcare domains such as finance, human resources, quality, strategy, and analytics, the curriculum integrates innovative case studies to provide a practical learning environment. Students can expect to enhance their leadership skills and analyze effective healthcare models, preparing them for diverse leadership roles within the healthcare industry.

Highlights of this program include flexibility and engagement, enabling students to effectively balance coursework with personal and professional commitments. Whether from a clinical background or other healthcare-related fields, participants benefit from a curriculum focused on strategic planning, financial management, human resource administration, and more. The program’s asynchronous format and interactive opportunities for collaboration with faculty and peers ensure a rewarding and dynamic learning experience. 

• Location: Chicago, IL 
• Duration: One year
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)

University of Washington – School of Public Health

Professionals looking to gain essential business and management skills required to excel in leadership roles within the healthcare industry should consider the executive master’s of health administration at the Univerity of Washington. This nationally recognized program provides a convenient hybrid online format that allows students to balance coursework with personal and professional commitments effectively. The curriculum focuses on developing critical competencies explicitly tailored for the healthcare sector, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to enhance patient care delivery and organizational effectiveness.

Features of the program include access to experienced industry professionals and researchers as instructors, who offer valuable insights and best practices in health administration. This program is structured as a part-time commitment, requiring one long weekend of online or in-person classes per month, complemented by weekly online sessions. Additionally, students benefit from building a strong network of healthcare leaders within their cohort, providing ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement. 

• Location: Seattle, WA  
• Duration: Two years
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)

New York University – Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service

The online master of health administration (MHA) program offered by New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service provides a cutting-edge educational experience for aspiring healthcare leaders. This program combines rigorous coursework with real-world practical applications, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex healthcare landscape effectively. With a curriculum covering healthcare economics, policy, leadership, and analytics, students comprehensively understand healthcare administration while honing their strategic decision-making abilities.

Staffed by expert faculty members who are seasoned professionals in healthcare management, this program’s flexible online format allows working professionals to advance their careers without interrupting their current commitments. Through interactive online classes, collaborative projects, and access to NYU’s extensive network of healthcare partners, students graduate prepared to lead and innovate in various healthcare settings. The program’s focus on developing ethical and inclusive healthcare leaders further distinguishes it as a top choice for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving healthcare industry.

• Location: New York, NY
• Duration: Seven terms
• Accreditation: Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education (CAHME)

Becoming a medical director is a lengthy and rigorous process, often necessitating around 16 to 20 years of education and professional experience. This includes completing a four-year undergraduate degree and four years of medical school. After medical school, aspiring medical directors must complete a residency program in their chosen specialty, lasting between three to seven years. Many physicians may pursue further education in healthcare administration, such as an MBA, MHA, or MPH, which can take an additional one to two years. Lastly, professional experience in clinical practice and leadership roles is generally required for this career, and it can take several years before one can qualify for this position.

Step 1: Graduate from High School or Complete a GED (Four Years)

A high school diploma or GED is crucial as it is the foundational step in the educational journey toward becoming a medical director. Completing high school or obtaining a GED demonstrates the basic competencies and knowledge required to pursue higher education. Students should focus on math and science to help prepare them for additional studies.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (Four Years)

Aspiring medical directors should pursue a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as biology, health sciences, or pre-med. This foundational education is crucial for gaining admission to medical school and developing essential knowledge and skills. Additionally, participating in internships and research projects during the bachelor’s program can provide valuable hands-on experience and enhance a candidate’s application to medical school.

Step 3:  Attend Medical School (Four Years)

After completing a bachelor’s degree, aspiring medical directors must attend medical school to obtain a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree. A solid academic record and performance on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) are essential for gaining admission to competitive medical schools. During medical school, students will complete basic sciences and clinical medicine coursework and gain hands-on experience through rotations in hospitals and clinics.

Step 4: Complete Residency Training (Three to Seven Years)

Following the completion of medical school, physicians must complete a residency program in their chosen specialty. This training provides practical experience and further education in a specific area of medicine, such as internal medicine, pediatrics, or surgery.

Step 5: Advanced Education (One to Two Years, Optional)

While optional, many medical directors pursue additional education in healthcare administration to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for leadership roles. This may include earning an MBA, MHA, or MPH degree.

Step 6: Gain Clinical Experience (Varies)

To become successful medical directors, candidates should have several years of clinical experience. This may involve working in various healthcare settings, taking on leadership roles within their specialty, and developing expertise in their field.

Step 7: Obtain Certification (Varies)

Some employers may require or prefer certification for medical director roles. This may include becoming board-certified in a specific specialty or obtaining additional credentials such as Certified Medical Director (CMD) through the American Board of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine.

Medical directors work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and public health organizations. Their role is integral to ensuring that these institutions operate efficiently and provide high-quality care to patients.

• Oversee clinical operations and ensure compliance with healthcare standards.
• Develop and implement medical policies and procedures.
• Coordinate between different departments to improve patient care.
• Lead and mentor medical staff, providing guidance and support.
• Manage budgets and allocate resources effectively.
• Evaluate and supervise ongoing medical research and clinical trials.
• Ensure efficient handling of patient records and confidential information.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in medical technology and treatments.
• Communicate with regulatory bodies to maintain accreditation.
• Address patient complaints and resolve any issues related to care delivery.

Obtaining the necessary certifications and licensure is critical to a medical director’s job. Understanding these credentials is essential for those aspiring to excel in this leadership role within the healthcare industry. First, medical directors must hold an active and unrestricted medical license in the state where they practice. This involves fulfilling continuing education requirements to keep the license current and ensuring compliance with state-specific regulations. Most states require physicians to hold board certification in their specialty to be licensed. 

Certification as a Certified Medical Director (CMD) through the American Board of Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine is a voluntary but valuable credential. To be eligible for this certification, applicants must have: 

• A doctor of medicine (MD) or osteopathic medicine (DO) degree from an accredited medical school.
• A valid, unrestricted medical license to practice medicine in the United States
• Hold board certification in their primary medical specialty
• A minimum of two years of post-residency clinical experience in post-acute and long-term care settings is required. 
• At least 40 hours of continuing medical education (CME) credits specifically focused on medical direction and leadership in long-term care.
• Completion of a recognized CMD fellowship program
• Professional references attesting to the candidate’s competency, ethical standards, and leadership skills in medical direction.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2023) classifies medical directors as medical and health services managers. However, medical and health service managers do not need to be physicians, so the salary ranges may be low.  On average, medical and health service managers nationwide earn $134,440 per year. Here are the percentiles:

• 10th percentile: $67,900
• 25th percentile: $86,080
• 50th percentile (median): $110,680
• 75th percentile: $157,640
• 90th percentile: $216,750

Payscale, a salary aggregate website, notes that medical directors earn an average of $243,013 per year, with the bottom 10 percent earning $121,000 and the top 90th percentile earning $336,000 annually. 

Here are a few alternatives to an orientation and mobility specialist career. 

Become a Hospital Administrator

Hospital administrators oversee daily operations, ensure compliance with regulations, and implement policies that enhance patient care and staff performance. Administrators also handle budgeting, resource allocation, and strategic planning, often collaborating with medical staff and directors to promote a cohesive healthcare environment. 

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization:  Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) and the Professional Association of Health Care Office Management.

Become a Nursing Home Administrator

Nursing home administrators ensure the effective operation of long-term care facilities, focusing on administering care for elderly and disabled residents. They are responsible for managing daily operations, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, and upholding quality standards of care. Nursing home administrators’ other duties include overseeing staff management, budget allocation, and the implementation of policies that enhance residents’ quality of life. 

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: National Association of Long-Term Care Administrator Board (NAB) 

Become a Clinical Trials Manager

Clinical trial managers oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of clinical research studies. They ensure trials follow regulatory requirements, protocols, and good clinical practices. This role often involves coordinating between various stakeholders, including researchers, sponsors, and regulatory bodies, while managing budgets and timelines.  

• Typical Education: Master’s degree
• Licensing or Certifying Organization: Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP)

Kimmy Gustafson

Writer

At HealthcareDegree.com, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth and insightful articles since 2019, aiding prospective students to navigate the complexities of choosing the right healthcare degree. Her recent work includes topics such as the ethics of gene editing and physician assistant’s fight for autonomy.

Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.