Thomas Seboldt- University of Iowa Healthcare: Finance and Accounting (MHA '26)

 Hello everyone!

This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to intern with the Finance and Accounting Services (FAS) team at UI Healthcare. Under the mentorship of Beth Jaggers, Senior Director of Financial Strategy, and in collaboration with experienced financial directors, I explored the dynamic and complex world of healthcare finance and accounting.

Throughout the internship, I gained hands-on experience in several core areas, including financial reporting and analysis, cost accounting, budgeting, and the operational side of healthcare finance. This immersive experience gave me a well-rounded understanding of how financial strategy supports both patient care and organizational sustainability within a large academic medical center.

One of the key projects I contributed to involved maintaining accurate and up-to-date reporting on quality metrics tied to Medicaid Directed Payments. These payments are a key portion of the organizations margin. Without directed payments, reimbursement for these cases remains extremely low. By keeping quality scores high on targeted metrics, we are able to receive increased reimbursement which is vital for the financial health of UI Healthcare. These directed payment dollars are used by the organization for system wide improvements and expansion.

 I also worked on cost accounting initiatives that required analyzing both hospital and physician charges, and I learned about the allocation process across departments. Additionally, I collaborated with fellow interns to complete the annual space survey, which plays a critical role in that allocation process.

While these projects represent just a portion of my summer, they significantly enhanced my financial literacy and deepened my appreciation for the intersection of finance and healthcare. I’m excited to continue this journey into the academic year as a graduate assistant, working alongside fellow intern Hayden Malven. This continuation will allow me to build on the projects I’ve started and take on new challenges.

Outside of work, I made the most of summer by spending quality time with friends and family, and enjoying activities like volleyball, golf, and fishing. One of my favorite memories from the summer was playing neon volleyball at The Sandlot in Cedar Rapids.

Overall, this internship has been a rewarding and exciting experience. I’m incredibly grateful for the guidance and support I received from the FAS team, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned as I continue to grow in the field of healthcare finance.

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