The University of Minnesota MHA program placed first in the 10th annual UAB Health Administration Case Competition, Feb. 26, 2016. MHA students Caleb Ahrns, Brett LeFevre, and Jenny Pandl competed against 37 CAHME-accredited graduate programs from across the United States and Canada.

The student team developed a population health strategy for Ochsner Health System in New Orleans, La. They developed Ochsner Patient-centered Health Neighborhood to bring together patients, providers, the community, and payers to collaborate on improving the health of New Orleans. Strategy goals included increased access and engagement for patients, better supporting and aligning incentives with providers, more investment and connection to the community, and further partnership with payers to move towards more value-based payment models.

Minnesota finished third last year and second in 2013. This is their second championship having won the title in 2010. Minnesota was also recognized as one of only four teams participating every year since the competition began. Richard Priore, associate professor, served as faculty advisor to the team.