The Business of Healthcare

Driving Innovation and Patient-Centered Value

At the Frist College of Medicine (FCoM), we believe that exceptional physicians don’t just treat patients—they transform healthcare. Healing goes beyond clinical expertise and compassionate bedside care; it requires understanding and shaping the systems that determine patient access, affordability, and outcomes.

Every decision in healthcare—from policy and payment structures to private-sector innovation—impacts lives. Yet too often, these forces operate without the voice of those who provide and receive care. A healthcare system that truly serves patients must be built with both medical and business insight, ensuring that value is defined from the patient’s perspective.

At FCoM, we are committed to preparing physician leaders who see the full picture—clinicians who not only deliver outstanding care but also advocate for smarter, more sustainable, and more equitable healthcare models. We equip our students with the knowledge to challenge inefficiencies, rethink outdated incentives, and champion innovations that enhance both individual well-being and population health.

How We’re Leading Change

We integrate business and policy education into medical training, ensuring our graduates are prepared to lead, advocate, and drive meaningful reform. Key initiatives include:

Cross-Disciplinary Partnerships:
We collaborate with the College of Business Healthcare MBA program, fostering interprofessional learning and providing future physicians with a deep foundation in healthcare strategy, finance, and management.
Comprehensive Education in Healthcare Systems:
Our curriculum covers critical areas such as healthcare structure, payment and reimbursement models, value-based care, health policy, and public health—empowering students to navigate and improve the complex healthcare landscape.
Real-World Innovation & Industry Engagement:
Situated in the heart of Nashville’s dynamic healthcare ecosystem, we connect students with leaders in biotech, health law, policy, public health, and industry innovation, ensuring they graduate with firsthand experience in shaping the future of healthcare delivery.

By redefining the role of business in medicine, we are training physicians who don’t just work within the system—they improve it. With a foundation in both clinical excellence and healthcare leadership, our graduates are prepared to drive solutions that make high-quality care more accessible, affordable, and patient-centered.