Message from AHVAP Executive Director
The Critical Role of Agility in Healthcare Value Analysis:
A Call to Leadership
Dear AHVAP Members and Partners,
In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the role of value analysis professionals has never been more critical — or more dynamic. As the industry faces mounting challenges, including rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and the demand for better patient outcomes, value analysis professionals must adapt and lead with agility. It’s no longer enough to simply manage costs; we must be strategic decision-makers who continuously evolve to meet the changing needs of our organizations and the patients we serve.
Agility is the cornerstone of success in healthcare value analysis. This means staying ahead of industry trends, anticipating challenges, and pivoting quickly to implement solutions. As a value analysis professional, being agile requires not just technical expertise but also the ability to build strong collaborative relationships, influence stakeholders, and drive innovation. To thrive in this role, we must commit to continuous improvement — not just for our organizations, but for ourselves.
Sharpening the Professional Saw
Stephen Covey’s timeless advice to “sharpen the saw” is especially relevant for value analysis professionals. Continuous professional development is essential for staying relevant and effective in an ever-changing industry. Earning certifications, such as those offered by AHVAP and the AHVAP Certification Center, enhance your credibility and equips you with the tools to excel in your role. Certifications demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide you with a deeper understanding of best practices, cost analysis techniques, and evidence-based decision-making.
But sharpening your professional saw goes beyond certifications. It’s about embracing lifelong learning, whether through attending conferences, participating in webinars, or engaging in peer discussions. These opportunities expose you to new ideas, emerging technologies, and innovative strategies that can transform your approach to value analysis. The more you invest in yourself, the better equipped you’ll be to lead your organization through complex challenges.
Stepping Up as a Leader
The healthcare industry needs leaders now more than ever, and value analysis professionals are uniquely positioned to rise to the occasion. As the bridge between clinical teams, supply chain, and administration, you play a pivotal role in aligning cost-saving initiatives with patient care priorities. However, leadership isn’t just about your position — it’s about your mindset. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, advocating for impactful changes, and inspiring those around you to strive for excellence.
Agile leaders don’t just react to change; they drive it. This means staying informed about new regulations, technologies, and market trends and using that knowledge to shape your organization’s strategies. It also means mentoring others, sharing your expertise, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within your team. When you lead with agility, you empower your organization to achieve its goals while elevating your own professional impact.
Upping Your Game
The pursuit of excellence is a journey, not a destination. To “up your game” as a value analysis professional, challenge yourself to think beyond the status quo. How can you improve processes, enhance collaboration, or uncover hidden opportunities for savings and efficiency? Take initiative to propose innovative solutions and back them up with data and evidence. Seek feedback from peers and stakeholders, and use it to refine your approach. Remember, agility is not just about responding to external pressures — it’s about proactively shaping the future of healthcare. By continuously pushing your boundaries, you set a standard of excellence that inspires others and ensures your organization remains resilient and forward-thinking.
Healthcare is at a crossroads, and value analysis professionals are key to driving meaningful change. By embracing agility, committing to lifelong learning, and stepping up as leaders, you can not only navigate today’s challenges but also shape a better future for patients and providers alike. The time to lead is now — so sharpen your saw, earn those certifications and micro-credentials, and show the industry what healthcare value analysis professionals are truly capable of achieving.
Regards,
J. Hudson Garrett Jr., Ph.D., MSN, MPH, MBA, FNP-BC, IP-BC, PLNC, VA-BC, BC-MSLcert™, MSL-BC, LTC-CIP, CIC, CPPS, CAE, CPHQ, CVAHP™, ICE-CCP, CPXP, CMRP, CDIPC, FAOM, FACDONA, FAAPM, FAPIC, FNAP, FACHE, FSHEA, FIDSA, FAHVAP
Executive Director and Executive Vice President
Association of Healthcare Value Analysis Professionals (AVHAP)
Chief Credentialing Officer
AHVAP Certification Center
Certified Association Executive
