Introducing the Humana-Mays Healthcare Analytics Challenge
Mays Business School at Texas A&M University has teamed up with Humana Inc. to launch the much-anticipated annual healthcare analytics case competition. Now in its eighth year, this event invites students to address a real-world business challenge using their analytical skills. With an impressive total prize pool of $90,000, the competition is packed with incentives for budding analysts. The top team will take home $50,000, while the second and third place teams will earn $20,000 and $10,000, respectively. Additionally, teams finishing in fourth and fifth place will each receive $5,000.
Who Can Join?
The competition is open to full-time and part-time master’s students currently enrolled in AACSB-accredited programs across the United States. Eligible programs include Master of Science, Master of Arts, Master of Information Systems, Master of Public Health, and Master of Business Administration, among others. Students can form teams of two to four members from their own university, promoting a collaborative environment for tackling urgent business issues.
Insights from the Organizers
Mays Business School Dean Nate Sharp expressed pride in this partnership with Humana and stressed the significance of the competition for future business leaders. "This competition aligns perfectly with our mission to create a brighter future through business, showcasing the essential role leaders play in advancing innovative healthcare solutions," Sharp stated.
Scott Bagley, PhD, Humana's Vice President of HQRI Technology and Analytics, added valuable context by discussing the swift progress in healthcare technology. He emphasized that employing data-driven strategies greatly improves the quality and fairness of care given to patients, which is crucial for achieving positive health outcomes. Bagley also pointed out the importance of allowing students to apply what they learn beyond the classroom, encouraging creativity and innovation as they work toward impactful solutions to real-world problems.
Evaluation Criteria
As teams compete, they will be evaluated based on several essential criteria:
- Quantitative analysis that uncovers significant business insights.
- Professionalism, which covers data visualization and presentation abilities.
- Capability to draw meaningful implications and recommendations from their analysis and insights.
Key Dates to Keep in Mind
This year’s competition features several important dates that participants should note:
- September 27: Deadline for team registration by 11:59 PM (CST).
- October 1: A virtual Q&A session with competition leadership, providing valuable insights into the event.
- October 11: Round One submission deadline, followed by the announcement of the Top 50 Teams advancing to Round Two.
- October 20: Submission deadline for Round Two.
- November 1: Announcement of the Top 5 Finalists moving on to Round Three.
- November 14: Virtual presentations and announcement of winners.
Previous winners have hailed from esteemed institutions like Syracuse University, UCLA, and Georgia Tech, highlighting the level of talent that this competition attracts.
About Mays Business School
Mays Business School is committed to shaping a better future through business education and leadership. With over 6,400 students enrolled in various disciplines, including accounting, finance, and marketing, Mays consistently ranks among the top public business schools in the nation. The school focuses on developing principled leaders who make positive contributions to their communities.
About Humana Inc.
Humana Inc. is dedicated to prioritizing health for its customers and employees. Through its insurance services and innovative care initiatives, Humana has significantly improved health outcomes for diverse populations, including those with Medicare and Medicaid. Their ongoing commitment to enhancing care quality positions them as a leader in the healthcare industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Humana-Mays Healthcare Analytics Case Competition?
This is an annual event where students use their analytical skills to solve real-world healthcare business problems and compete for cash prizes.
Who can participate in the competition?
Full-time and part-time master’s students from AACSB-accredited programs in the U.S. are eligible to take part, creating teams of two to four members.
What are the main judging criteria?
Teams are evaluated on their quantitative analysis, level of professionalism, data visualization, presentation skills, and the implications of their findings.
What’s the total amount of prize money available?
The competition boasts a total prize pool of $90,000, with significant awards for the top five teams.
When are important dates for the 2024 competition?
Key dates include the team registration deadline on September 27, a Q&A session on October 1, and various submission deadlines leading up to November 14.
