Robbins Healthcare MBA Expands Global Reach: Embarks on Second International Trip to Barcelona
MBA Cohort with Mr. Salvador Illa
Students and faculty members in the Robbins Healthcare MBA Program embarked on a journey to explore Barcelona's healthcare landscape during the program's second global health immersion from October 6-12, 2023. The entire MBA cohort delved into the rich cultural and professional tapestry of Barcelona, fostering a unique learning experience. The trip kicked off with visits to iconic landmarks, including Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia, providing students with an introduction to the city's vibrant history and architecture. The second day saw an excursion to Montserrat, coupled with a business presentation from the operators of Abadal Winery.
The healthcare students' learning continued with a visit to the Barcelona Science Park. There, they learned about BioCAT, an organization that maximizes the economic and social impact of health innovation in the Catalon region, which offered students a deeper understanding of Spain’s healthcare ecosystem. In the afternoon, a case study on hospital innovation strategies at IESE Business School provided valuable insights into operational dynamics and strategic decision-making. The itinerary featured a visit to Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, where students learned about the facility's advanced operations. The day concluded at IESE Business school, where MBA Students engaged in a networking event and speaker session with Salvador Illa, former Minister of Health of Spain. Mr. Illa shared his experiences as a leader during the COVID-19 Pandemic, imparting valuable wisdom about how to deal with challenges as a health administrator.
Healthcare Cohort at the Barcelona Health Hub
Other learning experiences included a lecture from the CEO of Teladoc Health International, offering students a glimpse into the future of telehealth. Another session took them to Camp Nou, the world-famous home of soccer club FC Barcelona, where students explored the intersection of sports and business at the FC Barcelona Innovation Hub. Healthcare MBA students concluded their learning experiences with a visit to the Barcelona Health Hub, where they received presentations from healthcare startup companies, including Mediktor—an AI-assisted diagnostic tool for clinicians.
The second annual Global Health Immersion trip to Barcelona proved to be an enriching experience for the Robbins Healthcare MBA Program. Beyond academic insights gained through engaging lectures and discussions with industry leaders, the cultural exploration of Barcelona added a rewarding element to the students' learning journey. Networking events and speaker sessions brought real-world perspectives to the forefront, offering students valuable insights into how they can grow as healthcare leaders. From exploring iconic landmarks to delving into innovative healthcare institutions, every moment was an opportunity for learning. Their visit to the Barcelona Health Hub served as a fitting culmination, showcasing the innovative nature of Spain’s healthcare system.
