The research focuses on the examination of existing data sets. Research involving human subjects is outside the scope of the capstone project.

In order to differentiate between research involving human subjects and the examination of data sets, visit the Institutional Review Board (IRB)Links to an external site. to learn about the protection of human subjects and the applicable policies as well as the regulations governing human subjects research.

To save time in the process of topic selection, ensure that you understand the limits of the capstone course. For example, you cannot administer a survey to or interview staff and patients. As an alternative, and with permission, you could examine existing data that the organization has already gathered relating to the problem or issue. One application of this might be employee satisfaction. Most organizations conduct periodic employee satisfaction surveys. You could request to review and summarize survey results as they relate to two or three problem areas, conduct a literature review, and propose solutions.

Review the topic headings in the MHA5020 Reading ListLinks to an external site.. This will be helpful for identifying useful resources as you select a topic for your data analysis project. It may also help you gain more granularity on a subtopic for enhanced knowledge, locate a useful tool for quality measurement or compliance audits, et cetera.

Asking About HIPAA Training

You must inquire about the completion of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 training that may be required by your employer or your selected organization.

You may also visit the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services website, Health Information Privacy, available via the following resource to learn more about the HIPAA Act of 1996 and how it applies to you.

Looking Ahead

Throughout this capstone course, you are required to turn in five assignments, specifically in Weeks 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9.

If you have not done so already, take some time to read through these assignments to understand what is required of you.

Reminder

The actual capstone experience includes one meeting (phone, web conference, or on-site) with a practicing healthcare professional within a selected healthcare organization to confirm the topic and the method for analysis of the issue, as well as any related details. Details may include how to access data, defining one’s role as a temporary volunteer, the possibility of completing a short HIPAA orientation online, and so forth. Each organization will have specific structures within which you will work.

Learners with healthcare experience or who are actively employed within a healthcare organization should feel free to utilize this capstone experience as an opportunity to showcase their healthcare leadership competencies. Learners who are employed in a healthcare organization typically work within their employer organization due to ease of access and the opportunity to add value to the organization.

Existing data may be found within the public domain (such as government or accrediting body websites) or within your selected organization. You will request permission to view existing organizational data, and you must include a statement that you will uphold confidentiality regarding any proprietary information.