Student Spotlight: Alanna DiBiasi, DPT

How has your experience in the MS Health Care Transformation program changed how you approach your work?

The MS Health Care Transformation program changed how I approach work in multiple ways. When I started this program, I took a step back and looked at how I approach and communicate with my patients as a physical therapist. I began to reverse my thinking to address what matters to the patient versus solely what I think the individual needs from a scientific approach. Not only has this changed the way I treat clinically, but I also began to recognize the importance of momentum to achieve greater results to lead transformation. Additionally, I have been thinking of how a process can change within the system I currently work in and how I can begin to advocate for my colleagues, patients, and a unit. This program continues to change the way I think from class to class, and there are days that I continue to think about how I can make an impact and change this person's life and future generations.

The MSHCT Class of 2023 begins on August 16. Do you have any advice to help them gain as much as possible from the year-long program?

I think the most important thing is to ensure you are not just completing an assignment. This program teaches you to think critically and be innovative while being surrounded by a powerful cohort from which you can continue to gain knowledge daily and for the future. I think it is important to continue asking questions, listening, and taking assignments, projects, and project planning seriously to apply this critically versus just checking off a task completed.

What was the most distinct aspect of the program from your experience?

It is hard to decide on the most distinct aspect of this program. As I think about this program, the knowledge of the professors and their well thought out curriculum is a given. So I feel the best part of this program is learning from others in the cohort. This program teaches you how to work well with different people with a high focus on a team approach to reach positive outcomes. Being in the program with people not just from the United States but from all over the world is the most distinct aspect. I now feel like I have a strong network globally.

What types of professionals do you think would benefit most from the MS in Health Care Transformation program?

I think a number of professionals would benefit from this program. Since I am a physical therapist, I think it is a great program for this specific profession. However, I think this program can apply to all clinicians within the health field and other individuals that impact the system, such as higher leadership roles, directors, data analyst, etc. I also think the type of professional that would benefit from this program is an individual who is motivated, driven, and genuinely wants to make a change in the health care field.

February 2022