Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

Frontiers in Medicine

Publication Date

2-13-2026

Abstract

Background: Health management represents a core competency for healthcare professionals, especially in systems experiencing rapid reform and resource constraints. While traditionally overlooked in undergraduate curricula, it is vital for promoting efficiency, patient safety, and interprofessional collaboration. Methods: Four universities were partner sites for this classroom-based research: Zayed University (ZU), with two campuses, the University of Sharjah (US), Princess Noura Bint Abdul Rahman University (PNU), and Kuwait University. A total of 307 health science students were recruited from each university through email and in-class invitations from August 2022 to January 2024. Following the data check, score variables were created for general knowledge, attitude, and readiness. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to identify significant predictors of knowledge and attitude. Results: Students largely demonstrated a solid foundational understanding of core health management concepts. However, fewer students recognized the connection between health management and epidemiology. Those with prior exposure to health systems or economics courses were more likely to exhibit greater knowledge. Differences in knowledge levels were also observed across institutions. Positive attitudes toward pursuing a management role were more common among senior students but varied by academic background and university. Readiness to engage in health management learning was generally moderate and was higher among students with previous degree experience. Conclusion: Students generally acknowledged the value of health management and demonstrated moderate readiness to engage with the topic. Prior coursework and academic standing influenced both knowledge and attitude. Strengthening undergraduate curricula with foundational management content may enhance student preparedness for future roles.

ISSN

2296-858X

Publisher

Frontiers Media SA

Volume

13

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

Keywords

curriculum development, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), health management education, leadership and decision-making, undergraduate students

Scopus ID

105031487872

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

yes

Open Access Type

Gold: This publication is openly available in an open access journal/series

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