“Since doing the course, I have been able to implement some of the human centred design concepts to customise services for our elderly clients. I have also been able to use my learnings from the course to better evaluate the technology enabled solutions like RPM and digital health solutions that we are in the process of implementing for our elderly patients.”
Karuna Vyas, Head of the Home Healthcare division for a prominent service provider in India and the Middle East, oversees the well-being of a substantial elderly population. Recognising the importance of enhancing her understanding of the elder care industry, she pursued and successfully completed the Specialist Course in Gerontology. Leveraging her newfound knowledge, Karuna has implemented strategies that have significantly improved the well-being of numerous elderly clients under her care.
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Why did you decide to study at the University of Melbourne?
I was particularly drawn to a course that provided in-depth knowledge about the elder care industry, including its specific needs, requirements, and trends. What appealed to me were the diverse range of aging-related subjects offered, the flexibility of upgrading from a Specialist to a Graduate course, and the convenience of accessing the program online. The presence of a multidisciplinary and expert faculty, along with the program's well-established reputation and a large network of alumni, were significant factors. Additionally, the competitive course fee made it an attractive option for me.
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What do you like most about your studies at the University of Melbourne?
The most exciting part of the course for me has been interacting on the forums with colleagues from both within and outside the elder and healthcare industry.
Since I did the course during the peak of COVID pandemic wherein the home care industry saw an unprecedented demand, managing my job while doing the course was a challenge. I liked the fact that the course offered early exit awards, so I was a able to complete my specialist certificate, even though I had initially intended to complete the graduate certificate.
Since doing the course, I have been able to implement some of the human centred design concepts to customise services for our elderly clients. I have also been able to use my learnings from the course to better evaluate the technology enabled solutions like RPM and digital health solutions that we are in the process of implementing for our elderly patients.
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Where are you currently working and what is your position title/role?
I currently head the home healthcare division of a large group of healthcare services provider which operates a chain of hospitals and medical centres in India and the Middle East.
As the head of home healthcare operations, I oversee the division operations, including financial performance, staffing, budgeting, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. I am responsible for the development and execution of strategic plans to drive the growth and profitability of the business while ensuring service delivery is consistent with business plans, and performance targets and meets high clinical standards.
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What advice do you have for future and current students who are interested in studying this course and pursuing a similar career?
My advice to anyone interested in doing this course would be to make sure that they are utilising all resources being provided during the course especially the networking opportunities with peers and faculty who are industry experts/leaders and to maximise the learning through practical experience.
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What inspires you?
Being alive and the hope and endless possibilities that each morning brings to grow, improve and make a difference in the world is what inspires me.