International Graduate Students Gain Firsthand Industry Exposure at UI Health
Healthcare Informatics students explore hospital operations, technology, and AI in a real-world healthcare setting.
International Graduate Students Gain Firsthand Industry Exposure at UI Health
On June 17, 2026, approximately 25 international graduate students from the College of Business Administration participated in an immersive visit to UI Health as part of the Healthcare Informatics course (IDS 594), taught by Dr. Andrew Boyd. The visit gave students the opportunity to connect classroom learning with the realities of healthcare operations and technology at one of Illinois’ leading academic medical centers.
The tour was led by UI Health’s Associate Chief Operating Officer, Joel Karman, who offered students an in-depth look at the complexities of managing one of Illinois’ leading academic medical centers. During his presentation, students learned about the unique nature of UI Health as a self-funded state hospital, the challenges healthcare systems face in today’s rapidly evolving environment, and the strategic initiatives being implemented to ensure operational excellence and long-term sustainability.
Particular attention was given to the role of technology and artificial intelligence in healthcare operations. Joel discussed how UI Health leveraged technology and data-driven decision-making during the COVID-19 pandemic, including efforts to diversify and strengthen its supply chain to maintain uninterrupted patient care amid significant disruption. Students gained valuable insight into how healthcare organizations balance innovation, efficiency, and patient outcomes while navigating financial and regulatory constraints.
The session included a lively discussion, with students asking thoughtful questions on a wide range of topics, including healthcare funding models, insurance reimbursement, services for international patients, approval and governance processes, contract and rate negotiations, and cybersecurity measures designed to protect patient records from malware and ransomware attacks.