Shikha Kumari is an engineer and MBA graduate from the Asian Institute of Management, Philippines, with over 16 years of experience. She began her career as a business consultant at a Big Four firm and currently focuses on advancing value-based healthcare through technology and data analytics at the National University Health System in Singapore.

In a recent conversation with Global Woman Leader Magazine, Shikha has shared valuable insights on key learnings from working in diverse industries, highlighting the unconventional yet essential strategies healthcare leaders should focus on to safeguard innovation and patient care, optimize delivery through process re-engineering, and drive value-based care, while empowering women in leadership roles.

You have worked on projects across industries such as banking, Oil & gas, education, Pharmaceuticals etc. what have been some of your key learnings while working for varied industries?

Each industry presents its own unique challenges and opportunities, but the key to success lies in understanding the underlying drivers of value. In banking, for instance, risk management and regulatory compliance are crucial, while in oil & gas, operational efficiency and safety are paramount. In my current industry, healthcare, which is vastly different from both banking and oil & gas, the ultimate goal is to improve patient health outcomes and deliver high-quality care.

My experience across these sectors has taught me that identifying and aligning with these core drivers is fundamental to achieving meaningful and sustainable outcomes, no matter the industry.

In your experience, what unconventional yet vital elements should healthcare leaders focus on when developing strategies to safeguard both innovation and patient care?

Patient care is at the center of everything we do, and quality care is non-negotiable. In my opinion, healthcare leaders must constantly develop strategies that enhance both access to care and the quality of care provided. However, to truly safeguard innovation and patient care, Healthcare leaders must recognize that patient care and innovation are not mutually exclusive. By focusing on unconventional strategies—such as data-driven value-based care, human-centered technology integration, workforce well-being, and sustainability—they can safeguard the future of healthcare while keeping patient care at the forefront. True innovation comes when we create a system that not only heals but also sustains the well-being of patients, healthcare professionals, and communities alike.

Can you explain the role of process re-engineering in optimizing healthcare delivery?

When I transitioned into the healthcare industry, my primary mandate was to implement digitally enabled process standardization. One of the key initiatives was the implementation of a state-of-the-art Electronic Medical Records (ERM) system, which was a critical step in optimizing healthcare delivery. Standardization in processes not only enhances operational efficiency but also ensures that patients receive consistent and high-quality care. This experience reinforced the importance of aligning technology with the core drivers of healthcare, such as patient outcomes and quality of care

What are the main challenges in driving value-based care in the healthcare industry?

After successfully implementing process standardization, our next major initiative was to embrace 'Value-Based Healthcare' (VBHC). We were the first hospital in Singapore to introduce and implement this concept locally. VBHC has several pillars, but we began with the most critical one—measuring both cost and outcomes. At that time, measuring cost in public healthcare was not widely practiced, so this approach allowed us to take a more comprehensive view of 'value.'

One of the key outcomes was greater transparency in how resources were being allocated to patient care. By measuring costs alongside outcomes, we were able to identify inefficiencies and adjust processes to improve both quality and affordability. This led to more streamlined care delivery and improved patient satisfaction scores.

However, one of the biggest challenges was the cultural shift required. VBHC demands a mindset change—away from focusing solely on clinical outcomes and towards an integrated approach that includes financial sustainability. Convincing various stakeholders, including clinicians and administrative teams, to adopt this approach required ongoing communication, training, and demonstrating early wins through pilot projects. But once the benefits became evident, there was stronger buy-in across the board.

Ultimately, VBHC has given us a new lens to view value in healthcare—not just in terms of patient outcomes, but also in understanding the cost efficiency of the care provided. This holistic approach to 'value' is something that’s applicable across any industry.

Women’s representation in top leadership roles continues to be low. In your opinion how can women empower themselves to succeed in healthcare careers, especially in leadership roles? What advice do you have for women looking to break barriers and excel in male-dominated healthcare fields?

The healthcare sector does indeed have a relatively high proportion of female professionals compared to many other industries, but challenges remain—particularly in leadership roles and decision-making positions. Globally, it is not disputed that while healthcare services are delivered by women, they are often led by men.

In my experience, there are several ways for women to empower themselves and others to break through these barriers. Building strong networks, continuously developing skills, and advocating for workplace equity are crucial steps. By taking these initiatives, women can not only rise to leadership positions but also play a pivotal role in transforming the healthcare industry into a more inclusive and balanced space.

How can healthcare organizations create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women professionals? What are the unique strengths and qualities that women bring to the healthcare industry?

Healthcare organizations can create a more inclusive environment for women by fostering equity, providing leadership opportunities, and supporting work-life balance. Women bring essential qualities such as empathy, collaboration, and resilience to the healthcare industry, which not only improve patient care but also enhance organizational culture and performance. By recognizing and leveraging these strengths, healthcare can become a more equitable and effective industry for all professionals.