Technology and Innovation for Improved Quality Care: Savanna Caballero '20 MHM
Savanna Caballero ’20 MHM
Savanna Caballero ’20 MHM has a dream to improve the current healthcare system.
When Caballero heard of the new online Master of Healthcare Management (MHM) program at Eller College of Management she knew it was a perfect fit for her. Her undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona had focused primarily on the scientific aspects of healthcare, so the MHM program was a great way to complement her technical education with the business skills required to lead in the healthcare industry.
Savanna Caballero ’20 MHM
In addition, the online format was ideal. “I have two kids and work full time, so it’s perfect for my lifestyle,” she says. “It’s given me the opportunity to earn a graduate degree online that I otherwise would not have been able to pursue.” The MHM program uses technology to provide students ways to connect. “I really enjoy collaborating with my colleagues through video conference calls for assignments,” she says.
Caballero is very active in the healthcare community. She is a member of the Eller HEAL club (Healthcare Entrepreneurs Administrators and Leadership), is an intern at the Arizona Medical Group Management Association and volunteers at Banner University Medical Center Tucson. Caballero enjoys attending conferences and health lectures such as UA-Banner “Doc Talks,” which began her networking with Banner.
“Eller has opened a lot of doors for me,” Caballero says, going on to say that MHM program coordinators have been fantastic at helping her get involved. Former director of the MHM program Dr. Stephen Gilliland, Ph.D., and program coordinator Mariam Hawatmeh, MPA, reach out to UA Online students to ensure they still received in-person experience, such as at Eller executive luncheons and other on-campus activities.
Furthermore, Eller helped to connect her with a mentor, Dan Peterson, CEO of Valor Health Services. “He along with his wife, Lea Márquez Peterson, another prominent community leader, have been kind to offer guidance and provide me with advice about my future. I am really thankful to be in the position to receive support from their experienced leadership.”
Currently, Caballero is working for Campus Health Service at The University of Arizona. “I serve as a liaison for students who have the Arizona Board of Regents - Student Health Insurance Plan,” she explains. “I love teaching students how to use and navigate their insurance.” There she continues to receive support and growth in advancing healthcare skills through the leadership of Ivan Acosta, MPH.
In the future, Caballero wants to work to improve the patient experience and make healthcare better for all. She has researched health disparities and believes in increasing accessibility and affordability for all individuals. “Being in an academic medical setting is such a unique and ideal place to be with all the innovation and ideas to improve quality in healthcare.” One dream of hers is to form a start-up to help improve healthcare in prison systems, particularly in Arizona.
As a part of the ongoing fourth industrial revolution, the MHM program seeks to inform students of the latest innovations and how they might best serve the community. “Technology and innovation are definitely the answer to improving the delivery of quality care,” she says.