Everyone likes to feel that because they run a Value Analysis Program for a certain period of time, they know everything they need to know. I find it great that most that feel this way have confidence in their VA Program and what they are doing with it. But you only know what you know and most importantly what you have been exposed to. There are so many aspects to value analysis, so it is best to keep an open mind and explore these areas further while bringing yourself and your program up a few levels in the process. For instance, I have been in the healthcare value analysis world for over 33 years, and I often want to learn new aspects or explore areas that I did not pay much attention to before but are very interesting and important now.
You are Either Moving Forward or Backwards; There is No In-between
One of the best ways to find new areas to add to your value analysis toolbox is to find the best practice, unique process, or methodology that you want to explore further. Then find one, two, or three VA Leaders who you would consider experts in these areas and reach out to see if they would be open to mentoring you in their successful achievements. It is that simple to get started!
Where Do You Find Value Analysis Mentors?
Great places to connect with potential mentors include the AHVAP Annual Conference and the AHVAP Circle Community. Additionally, if you come across an article by a Value Analysis Practitioner in a professional magazine and want to learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out. Chances are, they’ll be happy to share their insights — and they may even be open to mentoring you.
Make Sure You Qualify Your Mentors Before Engaging in Mentoring Talks
Before committing to a mentor, I recommend starting by asking thoughtful questions to ensure they truly have expertise in the process or methods you want to learn. Just because someone is self-taught or has been featured in a publication doesn’t necessarily make them the right mentor for you. It’s important to find someone you trust that can guide you effectively toward your learning goals. There are many potential mentors out there — the key is finding the right fit for you and your goals.
Be Respectful as You Learn from Your Mentors
Remember, the expert you are reaching out to may not be all that familiar with what it takes to be a mentor so you may want to have some goals and objectives together in a short list so they will fully understand what you are asking them to do. Your relationship with your mentor(s) does not need to be formal, but it can be. It all depends on how much detail you want to consume from your mentor(s) and if it is okay with your mentors. Remember to be respectful and be prepared when you engage with your mentor(s) as they have busy schedules.
Don’t Ignore the Value in Value Analysis Mentors
I’ve been fortunate throughout my career to have had outstanding mentors, and I truly understand the value they bring. Often, it’s not just the processes or methods they share — it’s the mindset and strategic thinking that leave a lasting impact. The key is positioning yourself well within the mentoring relationship, which can open the door to advanced skills and approaches that elevate both you and your program in ways you may not have imagined. And if you happen to be an expert in a particular area of value analysis, I encourage you to give back by sharing your knowledge and best practices with the next generation of VA professionals. Everyone benefits when expertise is passed on.
| About Robert W. Yokl, President of SVAH Solutions |
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| Robert is the President of SVAH Solutions which provides value analysis, clinical supply utilization, and savings validation tools to help healthcare organizations gain the next level of savings beyond price and standardization. https://www.SVAH-Solutions.com https://www.SavingsValidation.com |
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