18th MEHS: Healthcare Leadership and Ethics in Patient Assessment
Satisfaction Tools, Workplace Dynamics, and Team-Building Strategies
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise Round-trip Galveston, Texas January 02 - 09, 2028
Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas
16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ 16 ANCC Contact Hours
Course Fees
Attendees
Registration Fee
(Cruise Pricing is Additional and Listed Separately)
Physicians, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Dentists, Pharmacists, Healthcare Executives, and Faculty Seeking up to 16 CE Credits / CE Contact Hours
$995.00
Physician Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, CRNAs, Chiropractors, Physical/Rehab/Occupational/etc. Therapists, and other Non-Physician healthcare providers Seeking up to 16 CE Credits / CE Contact Hours
$795.00
Nurses, Nursing Home / Home Healthcare Practitioner, Residents*, Current students*, former students* of Dr. Chandra, BHAA Members *proof/verification required Seeking up to 16 CE Credits / CE Contact Hours
$595.00
Non-CE Earning: Faculty / Corporate Members to participate in the Academic Conference and can attend CE Sessions, but will not recieve CE Credit
$295.00
Non-CE Earning: Students / Guests to participate in the Academic Conference and can also attend CE sessions, but will not recieve CE Credit
18th MEHS - Ethical Dimensions, Patient/Employee Satisfaction Assessment Tools, Team Building, and Leadership Strategies for Healthcare Professionals
PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITY:
SIX (6)-hour worth of Pre-Conference study materials, including cases and assignments, will be sent to all pre-registered CE attendees prior to the start of the event and at least TWO weeks prior to the cruise departure date.
Cases/Assignments provided prior to face-to-face lectures will be discussed in class on Day 1 and/or 2 of CE sessions.
“Social Sciences, Marketing Research Techniques, and Business Strategies to Improving Patient Care”
The basics of a patient satisfaction survey
The 5W&H of understanding the patient and associated environmental issues
The role of patient (and caregiver) satisfaction surveys
Situations requiring quick survey research – valuing internal versus external surveyors
Survey research design, organizing, overseeing, reporting, and understanding
Types of data collection techniques
Inclusion and exclusion criteria
Writing good survey questions – a critical look at a variety of different questions
Understanding the report and determining strategies for patient care improvement
Ethical issues pertaining to patient/caregiver satisfaction surveys
Time allocated to comprehend the slides/CONTENT and complete the assignments: 6 Hrs. (Self-paced)
Day 1 (face-to-face): CE Session – Monday, January 3, 2028
Plan for the Day:
Face-to-Face Session: 3 hours (9:00 a.m. – Noon)
Assignment Completion Time Given: 4 hours (self-paced)
Overview of the Course Outline and Activities/Assignments for the day
Introductions and course expectations
Discussions about Pre-conference slides/materials/cases/assignments sent to Pre-registered attendees
“Ethical Dimensions: Why Healthcare Leaders Should be aware of the Workplace Environment – and its Impact on Patient Care”
EMPLOYEE CONFLICT MANAGEMENT & ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH PATIENT CARE
Impact of inter-personnel conflict on patient care
Correlation between conflict situations and organizational complexity
Factors that trigger conflict
Conflict between different types of personnel:
Physician-physician
Physician-nurse
Nurse-nurse
Department-department
Professional disparagement and its impact on patients and care delivery
CASE STUDY, ROLE PLAYING exercise, and DISCUSSION
PROFESSIONAL/UNPROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR
Expectation of Professionalism from:
Healthcare personnel perspective
Patient Perspective
Family/Guardian/Caregiver Perspective
Discrimination:
Workplace
Patient
CASE STUDY and DISCUSSION
MANAGING COMMUNICATION
Ethical dimensions of appropriate communication by medical office staff
Value, Issues, and Challenges
Types of communication
Non-verbal communication
Impact on patient/caregiver and their subsequent relationships with health professions
Cautions & Precautions
CASE STUDY, Role playing exercise, and DISCUSSION
ASSIGNMENTS – given at the end of the lecture to be completed by participants and ready to present on Saturday, January 8, 2028. If needed, the key presenter of the course will be available to assist and provide guidance to the participants regarding the assignments.
Day 2 (face-to-face): Conference Presentation Session – Tuesday, January 4, 2028
Plan for the Day:
International Conf. Presentations (non-CE earning)
TIME: 9:00 a.m. – Noon (as needed)
Day 3 (face-to-face): CE Session – Saturday, January 8, 2028
Presentation and discussions on the Assignments (given on previous session) by participants, with open discussions
“Ethical Principles and Moral Philosophies”
“Ethical Issues Pertaining to Patient Confidentiality & Consent”
ETHICAL ISSUES - 1: Patient confidentiality and consent
Potential compromising situations where patient confidentiality can unintentionally be breached:
In healthcare institutions/setting
By health and non-health personnel
In other social settings
EXAMPLES and INTERACTIVE CASES
Differentiation between types of consent AND assessing consent issues for and about different clients – minors, adults, and elderly
CASE STUDIES and ROLE-PLAYING exercise
ETHICAL ISSUES - 2: Gatekeepers for ethical integrity
Conflict of interest
Whistle-blower
Impaired healthcare provider
CASE STUDY and DISCUSSION
“Team Building and Leadership Strategies for Healthcare Professionals”
Benefits of building effective teams
Characteristics of well-performing teams
Critical Factors of productive teams
Different types of leaders in healthcare organizations
Role of leaders in team building
CASE STUDIES, ROLE PLAYING, and DISCUSSION related to team building
Closing remarks for CE sessions
Open Discussion and Final Thoughts
Conference Sessions generally take place on days at sea (as itinerary allows), giving you plenty of time to enjoy your meals, evenings and ports of call with your companion, family and friends.
IMPORTANT NOTE: All conferees, their families, and guests must book their cruise within the University at Sea® meeting group through University at Sea® at 800-926-3775 or by registering online. This ensures our company can provide conference services and complimentary social amenities to all meeting participants and their guests. Thank you for your cooperation.
Faculty
Ashish Chandra, MBA, PhD
Professor Ashish Chandra is a Professor of Healthcare Administration, College of Business at the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL), Houston, Texas, USA where he also served as the Department Chair for over four years at UHCL. All together Dr. Chandra has over 20 years of university level teaching experience in the U.S. He is a well-recognized healthcare administration academician internationally and serves on the academic advisory board of several educational institutions in Turkey and India. He has also provided over a dozen Management Development Program, Faculty Development Programs, and professional consulting services to several healthcare and business organizations in the United States, India, Turkey, and aboard cruise ships. He actively served on the board of directors of several professional and community organizations in the United States. Over the past four years he has served as the Course Director and Speaker of five Continuing Education Programs for health professionals.
Dr. Chandra is a prolific researcher and has 75 publications in refereed journals, two edited books, ten book chapters, and over 250 publications in conference proceedings. He is an Executive Editor of the journal Hospital Topics (the oldest journal in healthcare administration field - almost 95 years in existence). He has served as the President of FOUR major international academic organizations - the Business and Health Administration Association; the Association of Collegiate Marketing Educators; the MBAA International; and the Federation of Business Disciplines. He has also served as the Program Chair of over a dozen major international conferences, held in U.S., India, Turkey, and U.K. as well as aboard cruise ships in the Caribbean, Alaska, Baltics, and Mediterranean.
Professor Chandra has received numerous awards and recognition related to teaching, research, and service throughout his career, including the 2017 Excellence in Teaching Award by the National Society for Leadership Success; 2015 Outstanding Professor Award given by the University of Houston - Clear Lake Alumni Association; 2012 American College of Healthcare Executives Service Award; 2011 Outstanding Educator Award from the Association of Collegiate Marketing Educators; to name a few. He also has the distinct honor of being the Commencement Speaker at the December 2018 graduation ceremony of the University of Houston – Clear Lake. The URL link to Dr. Chandra’s commencement speech is below. Please cue to minute 32 of the video link in case you just want to see Dr. Chandra’s speech.
URL to speech https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpwOooexSYA&t=2984s
Our staff can assist you with all your travel arrangements.
Questions? Call us at 800-525-9696.
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
Cruise Itinerary
DATE
PORT OF CALL
ARRIVE
DEPART
Sun Jan 02
Galveston, Texas
-
4:30 pm
Mon Jan 03
*At Sea - Cruising
-
-
Tue Jan 04
*At Sea - Cruising
-
-
Wed Jan 05
Roatan, Honduras
8:00 am
5:00 pm
Thu Jan 06
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
8:00 am
5:00 pm
Fri Jan 07
Cozumel, Mexico
7:00 am
5:00 pm
Sat Jan 08
*At Sea - Cruising
-
-
Sun Jan 09
Galveston, Texas
6:00 am
-
*Tentative course schedule, actual class times may differ.
Ports of Call
Galveston, Texas
While frequently utilized merely as a logistical waypoint for Caribbean departures, Galveston warrants a closer look as a destination of distinct character and resilience. To treat this island city solely as a parking lot for cruise ships is to overlook one of the most significant collections of Victorian architecture in the United States and a cultural history that rivals New Orleans or Charleston. For the discerning traveler, a pre- or post-cruise stay here offers a sophisticated glimpse into the Gilded Age ambition that once dubbed this city the “Wall Street of the South,” before the 1900 hurricane altered its trajectory forever.
The Historic Strand and Architecture The heart of the visitor experience lies in the Historic Strand District. Unlike the manufactured port villages found in some Caribbean stops, the Strand is authentic—a grid of magnificent 19th-century iron-front buildings that survived natural disasters to house today's art galleries, antique purveyors, and boutiques. It is eminently walkable and serves as the city’s social hub. Just blocks away lies the East End Historic District, a neighborhood that rewards a slow walking tour or a bicycle ride. Here, the streets are lined with towering oleanders and an impressive density of Victorian homes.
Two architectural heavyweights demand attention here. The 1892 Bishop’s Palace (Gresham House) is widely considered one of the most significant Victorian residences in the country, a castle-like structure of stone and stained glass that reflects the immense wealth of early Galveston. Nearby, the Moody Mansion offers a similarly opulent, yet more personal, window into the lives of the powerful family that shaped much of modern Texas finance and philanthropy.
Museums and Culture Beyond architecture, Galveston offers high-quality museums that appeal to educated professionals. The Bryan Museum, housed in a beautifully restored Renaissance Revival orphanage, contains one of the world's largest collections of historical artifacts, documents, and artwork relating to the American West. It is a sophisticated, curated experience far removed from typical tourist fare.
Maritime history is also central to the island's identity. The Texas Seaport Museum is home to the 1877 tall ship ELISSA, a floating National Historic Landmark that is not a replica, but a survivor of the age of sail. For those with an interest in engineering or energy, the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum provides a fascinating, technical look at the oil industry aboard a retired jack-up rig—a rare opportunity to walk the pipe deck and understand the complexity of offshore operations.
The Seawall and Beaches: An Honest Assessment Galveston’s relationship with the Gulf is defined by its famous Seawall, a 10-mile engineering marvel built to protect the city. It serves as a bustling promenade for walking, cycling, and people-watching. However, travelers should manage their expectations regarding the beaches. Due to the island's proximity to the outflow of the Mississippi and Trinity Rivers, the water is nutrient-rich and typically opaque or brown, rather than the translucent turquoise found in the Caribbean. The beaches are wide and enjoyable for sunbathing, shell seeking, or a long walk, but they are not premier snorkeling destinations. Appreciating Galveston requires accepting it as a rugged, authentic coast rather than a tropical resort.
Culinary Highlights The dining scene is robust, anchored by access to fresh Gulf seafood. Gaido’s has been a local institution since 1911, famous for its crab dishes and pecan pie. For a more upscale atmosphere suitable for a special evening, Rudy & Paco offers Central American-influenced steaks and seafood with a dress code that keeps the atmosphere refined. For a casual, authentic lunch, seek out Katie’s Seafood House, which operates directly alongside the fish market where the local fleet unloads.
Logistics and Stress-Free Travel The logistical argument for a pre-cruise stay is compelling. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is a significant distance away—often 90 minutes or more with traffic—while William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is closer but still requires a 45-minute transfer. Attempting to fly in on embarkation day invites unnecessary stress. Arriving a day early mitigates travel risks and unlocks a destination that stands on its own merits.
A Sample 24-Hour Pre-Cruise Itinerary
Morning: Start with coffee and pastries on the Strand. Walk the district while the morning air is still relatively cool, browsing the antique shops. Proceed to the East End for a self-guided tour of the Victorian homes, culminating in a visit to Bishop’s Palace.
Lunch: Enjoy fresh Gulf shrimp or red snapper at a local favorite like Fisherman’s Wharf, offering views of the harbor and the ELISSA.
Afternoon: Choose your cultural adventure. For history buffs, The Bryan Museum provides a deep dive into the American West. For those interested in maritime mechanics, tour the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig.
Late Afternoon: Take a relaxed stroll along the Seawall to watch the pelicans and breathe the salt air, acknowledging the scale of the engineering that protects the city.
Dinner: Conclude with a reservation at Rudy & Paco (jackets recommended for men) or Vargas Cut & Catch for a polished, high-end dining experience before your voyage begins the next day.
At Sea - Cruising
Roatan, Honduras
Roatan's primary draw is its immediate access to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which hugs the shoreline. You don't need a long boat ride to see marine life here; world-class snorkeling often requires nothing more than wading in from the beach. For divers and snorkelers, this is arguably the premier stop in the Western Caribbean, offering high-visibility access to vibrant coral gardens.
Beyond the reef, the island offers two distinct experiences. West Bay is the quintessential Caribbean postcard—powder-white sands and calm turquoise waters—though expect significant crowds at the resorts. For a more authentic atmosphere, head to the neighboring West End village. It offers a bohemian mix of dive shops, open-air bars, and artisan stalls. Grab a fresh baleada, the thick flour tortilla staple of Honduran street food, while walking the strip.
Inland, the most popular excursions involve the island’s wildlife sanctuaries. Interactions with capuchin monkeys and sloths at places like Gumbalimba Park or Daniel Johnson's Monkey and Sloth Hang Out have become signature experiences, offering genuine engagement for animal lovers.
Ships dock at either the town of Coxen Hole or the purpose-built Mahogany Bay. Arrange transport away from these immediate port areas to experience the island’s true merit. Roatan is not a hub for colonial history or high culture; it is a natural playground. If you prioritize marine exploration or relaxed beach time over shopping and sightseeing, this port delivers.
Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico
Puerto Costa Maya is best understood as a modern, purpose-built gateway to the Yucatán's less-traveled southern coast. The port itself is a self-contained village with pools, shops, and restaurants designed for cruise visitors. For a more authentic experience, a short taxi ride leads to the adjacent fishing village of Mahahual, where a beachfront boardwalk (malecón) is lined with casual restaurants and beach clubs offering a relaxed, local atmosphere.
The true distinction of this port lies in its access to significant, yet uncrowded, Maya archaeological sites. The most popular excursion is to the Chacchoben ruins, where partially excavated pyramids emerge from a dense jungle setting, offering a powerful sense of discovery. For those willing to venture further, the Kohunlich ruins reward the journey with the impressive Temple of the Masks. Another premier excursion is the Laguna de Bacalar, the "Lagoon of Seven Colors," whose stunning freshwater hues are a remarkable natural wonder. While Costa Maya lacks the organic history of an ancient city, it serves as an excellent and comfortable launchpad for a day of genuine historical exploration or serene natural beauty.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel requires a strategic approach to bypass the commercial density of the immediate port area and access the island’s genuine natural splendor. As the gateway to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—the second-largest reef system in the world—the island’s primary allure lies beneath the surface. For divers and snorkelers, the drift dives at Palancar and Colombia reefs offer exceptional visibility and vibrant marine life. For a land-based alternative that avoids the masses, we recommend renting a jeep to explore the 'Wild Side' (the uninhabited east coast). This rugged shoreline offers a serene escape dotted with small, open-air reggae bars and crashing waves, providing a stark, beautiful contrast to the busy west coast.
A critical note regarding Mayan history: While the famous mainland sites of Tulum and Coba are spectacular, visiting them requires a 45-minute ferry to Playa del Carmen followed by a bus ride. This logistical commitment consumes your entire day and introduces transit stress. Unless these specific sites are non-negotiable, we advise remaining on the island. You can visit the smaller, on-island ruins of San Gervasio to satisfy historical curiosity without the risk of missing the ship.
If your goal is relaxation, Cozumel’s beach clubs are highly developed, ranging from high-energy all-inclusives to sophisticated, quiet retreats where the focus is on service and tranquility. When dining in the main town of San Miguel, avoid the waterfront tourist strip. Instead, walk three to four blocks inland to find authentic family-run cantinas serving excellent cochinita pibil and fresh ceviche at a fraction of the tourist prices. Cozumel is a polished tourism machine, but by focusing on the reef, the east coast, or a high-end beach club, you can curate a sophisticated and restorative experience.
Our staff can assist you with all your travel arrangements.
Questions? Call us at 800-525-9696.
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.
