Habeeb Ahmad
He/Him
What sparked your interest in MCiM and what specific aspects led you to believe it would be a strong match for your academic and career aspirations?
MCiM represents an ideal opportunity for emerging leaders in healthcare innovation to acquire knowledge and master management skills to lead digital innovations driving healthcare transformation. What attracted me to MCiM is the distinct benefit of leveraging Stanford's rich experience in clinical medicine, technology management, data analytics, ethical insights, business models, strategy optimization, and entrepreneurship. Bridging the cultures of business, technology, and medicine at one of the pinnacles of innovation, Stanford, in the heart of Silicon Valley is second to none and of immense network value. As an Ophthalmologist with a track record in digital health, startup involvement, and an interest in elevating patient experience and reducing inequity through disruption, MCiM was a logical choice for advancing my career to the next level in the era of AI. Alumni have stated that MCiM is analogous to an accelerated MBA in health tech for working professionals. I already realize the tremendous potential of this master's education, its diverse resources and the profound milieu found at Stanford.
Looking at your experience in the program so far, could you share a standout moment that has been your favorite?
One immediate standout moment that comes to mind was the negotiation exercise in one of our classes, Principles of Business Strategy. The class is taught by senior-level executives at Stanford Health, including the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Market Development Officer, who are remarkable professors with a wealth of experience. Our class was placed in small teams engaged in a hands-on multi-day venture simulating realistic forces in the healthcare marketplace. It was an exceptional exercise demonstrating effective communication, active listening, problem-solving, learning negotiation strategy, understanding market dynamics, empathy, and brand identity. Successfully navigating this negotiation exercise boosted our confidence in handling real-world negotiation situations.
How do you envision the landscape of your career evolving after you complete MCiM?
As a physician executive, surgeon, digital health innovator, and startup consultant, my career aims to impact innovation at the intersection of academics, industry, and research. MCiM has delivered above and beyond in opening my eyes to the transformative possibilities for advancing my career in innovation. Gaining a strong foundation in business and technology competencies and access to groundbreaking medical resources allows me to pursue diverse leadership pathways in health systems, life sciences businesses, healthcare-focused technology organizations, or startups. It empowers my options to lead in clinical medicine, health system leadership, healthcare consulting, bioinformatics, data analysis, and entrepreneurship. Moreover, this master's program will allow me to earn board certification in Clinical Informatics and pivot as a CMIO.
MCiM is more than just a degree – it's a transformative journey that equips you with the knowledge, skills, and network needed to tackle today's public health challenges and excel in the dynamic biotech landscape.