Exploring Healthcare Across Borders

The Healthcare MBA International immersion trip to Santiago, Chile, focused on understanding the country’s healthcare system and culture in comparison to that of the U.S. The trip combined visits to local businesses, hospital tours, policy discussions, and cultural activities to provide a fully immersive experience.

Clinica Las Condes is one of Santiago’s leading private hospitals, known for its advanced medical technologies, highly specialized care, and strong focus on patient-centric care. Although it was called a clinic, it operated like a private hospital, offering comprehensive inpatient and specialty care. This resource provided an opportunity to discuss resource allocation, healthcare efficiency and equity. 

“Never would I have imagined the opportunity to not only hear about another country’s healthcare system while studying for my degree, but also get the opportunity to compare, contrast, and start thinking about the future of healthcare in America,” said Ansh Shah, a current Healthcare MBA student. “It really brings a holistic perspective of what it means to be in Healthcare Administration, and for that, I am thankful.” 

Various healthcare reforms have focused on integrating public and private systems, working to improve access, and shifting to Diagnosis-Related Groups (DRG) payment models.

Beyond the professional site visits, students had the opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Santiago, the capital and largest city in Chile. The city offered a harmonious blend of modern life with traditional Latin American warmth. 

“I really enjoyed the overall slower pace of their culture,” said Taylor Belger, a student of the Healthcare MBA program. “Going out to eat dinner with our cohort was more enjoyable because we could sit and enjoy good food and conversation without feeling rushed.”

The city’s walkability and well-developed public transportation made exploration easy, with many students noting the comfort of being able to experience the city. 

“Everyone we spoke to was also very kind and willing to help as we tried to navigate the language barrier,” Taylor said. “Overall, I was most impressed by how the culture was so warm, inviting, and slower-paced, which offered a nice change from what we typically experience in the U.S.” 

During the global immersion trip, the Healthcare MBA cohort joined core MBA students to explore Chile’s diverse business landscape. Together, they visited Consejo Minerio, the nation’s largest operating mining company, where the leaders emphasized Chile’s commitment to sustainability and responsible resource management. Students also toured Viña Undurraga, one of Chile’s historic wineries, gaining insight into how the company maintains a competitive edge in producing and exporting premium wines through innovation and global market strategy. The Healthcare MBA students then engaged directly with their studies by visiting both public and private sector hospitals, gaining key takeaways into how Chile’s healthcare system operates. 

“The United States leads the world in medical research, innovation, and advanced technology, driving breakthroughs that influence global healthcare,” Elizabeth West said. “In contrast, Chile’s system emphasizes equity and access, ensuring that all citizens receive care regardless of income. Both models demonstrate distinct strengths, and it was an incredible opportunity to experience these differences firsthand and compare how culture shapes the delivery of care.” 

An eye-opening experience for the cohort was their visit to Hospital Santiago Oriente Luis Tisné, a public teaching hospital in Santiago, Chile. Students heard from the hospital’s director, Dr. Julio Montt Vidall, and his leadership team, who emphasized how the institution continues to drive innovation despite operating under significant constraints. The visit provided students with a broader perspective on a healthcare system that differs from that of the United States, yet is carefully designed to meet the needs of its communities. This international trip demonstrated the Hankamer School of Business’s dedication to instilling values in each student, both within and beyond the classroom, through reflection on lessons learned from international leaders.

Dr. Nicolás Balmaceda stated, “What moves us is the population we serve,” a mindset the students of the MBA healthcare program will continue as they set out as aspiring leaders, working towards improvements in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.