At the University of Nebraska at Omaha, a remarkable potential master's degree is on the verge of being approved. This degree aims to merge existing classes from UNO and the University of Nebraska Medical Center, creating a first-of-its-kind program focused on healthcare supply chain management. As the world undergoes rapid changes, the supply chain, which was once taken for granted, has become increasingly complex. During the COVID-19 pandemic, issues with sourcing essential medical supplies were widespread. In 2022, following the pandemic, faculty at both institutions began to explore ways to better manage the healthcare supply chain. The key question, as stated by Steven Schulz, an associate professor of logistics and supply chain management at UNO, is how to make the system more resilient and less susceptible to severe impacts. More recently, hurricanes have caused significant damage to water sterilization factories, leading to shortages of IV fluids in hospitals. These critical components highlight the need for proactive measures. The solution proposed by local experts is to create a master's degree in healthcare logistics and supply chain management offered through the UNO College of Business. This degree will enable students to think strategically ahead, months, weeks, and years, and prepare for the hospital's needs. As Stephen Peters, a faculty member at the College of Public Health at UNMC, emphasized, everyone and every hospital is vulnerable, especially in the Midwest where they have to navigate through the more populous coasts. The 30-credit hour, online program will be composed of courses already available at both UNMC and UNO. Schulz believes that the key goal is to add value to the economy by creating jobs and leveraging existing talent and technology while advancing the supply chain. If successful, this master's degree will be the first of its kind in the nation. It still requires two more votes of approval before it can be offered to students. One of these votes will take place on Friday during the board of regents meeting. Schulz predicts that if approved, the earliest they could start offering the degree would be in the spring of 2025. For the latest headlines from KETV NewsWatch 7, click here.

Why This Master's Degree is Crucial

In today's rapidly evolving world, the healthcare supply chain plays a vital role. This master's degree addresses the growing complexity of the supply chain and equips students with the necessary skills to handle various challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of a well-managed supply chain became evident. The ability to source and distribute essential medical supplies quickly and efficiently was crucial in saving lives. With this degree, students will learn how to anticipate and respond to supply chain disruptions, ensuring the continuous availability of critical healthcare products. Moreover, in regions like the Midwest, where hospitals have to rely on supplies from different areas, having a specialized degree in healthcare supply chain management becomes even more essential. It allows professionals to work more effectively and make informed decisions to mitigate risks and improve the overall quality of care. By creating jobs and leveraging existing talent and technology, this degree has the potential to have a significant impact on the economy and healthcare industry.

Benefits of the Online Program

The online nature of this 30-credit hour master's degree offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides flexibility for students who may have other commitments such as work or family. They can study at their own pace and fit the coursework into their busy schedules. Secondly, the use of existing courses from both UNMC and UNO ensures that students receive a comprehensive education. They can build on the knowledge and skills they have already acquired and gain a deeper understanding of healthcare supply chain management. Additionally, the online platform allows for interaction and collaboration with faculty and fellow students from different locations. This global perspective enriches the learning experience and prepares students for the diverse challenges they may face in the real world.

Advancing the Supply Chain Forward

The goal of this master's degree is not only to address current supply chain issues but also to drive innovation and advance the field forward. By combining the expertise of faculty from UNO and UNMC, students will be exposed to a wide range of perspectives and approaches. This interdisciplinary approach encourages creativity and the development of new solutions to complex supply chain problems. The graduates of this program will be well-prepared to take on leadership roles in healthcare organizations and contribute to the improvement of the supply chain. They will have the knowledge and skills to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance the overall efficiency of the healthcare supply chain. In conclusion, this groundbreaking master's degree in healthcare supply chain management holds great promise for the future of healthcare and the economy. With its unique focus and innovative approach, it has the potential to make a significant impact on both local and national levels.