Strategic Value in Healthcare: Insights from Miguel McInnis

I wanted to understand how high-performing companies create sustainable strategic value. Specifically, I was interested in what investors, customers, and potential partners prioritize from a financial performance perspective. Understanding these drivers is essential for building long-term, mission-aligned growth.

As President and CEO of Coordinated Transportation Solutions, Inc.—a nonprofit Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) company—we operate in a highly regionalized, commoditized, and competitive market. We partner with health plans, hospitals, school systems, and social service agencies to coordinate transportation for underserved communities, guided by a social determinants of health framework.

Our value proposition is centered on providing easy, timely, and cost-effective access to care. However, the increasing market emphasis on price has challenged our ability to sustain this value. Through the Strategic Value Creation program, I gained a deeper understanding of the business lifecycle and how it connects to financial statements. One key insight: what and where you spend determines the value you create.

Since the program, I’ve zeroed in on our two largest investments—technology and labor. I’m working closely with my team to maximize operational efficiency in these areas to drive down costs and enhance our pricing strategy.

The program provided me with a clear framework for evaluating strategic decisions. I now examine not only customer behavior and competitor activity but also competitor spending patterns as indicators of market direction. This approach helps me validate assumptions and anticipate shifts in the landscape with greater confidence.

Professor Shiva Rajgopal’s teaching style is incredibly engaging. He starts with a solid framework, then uses real-world examples to bring the material to life. His case-based approach, combined with open dialogue and peer discussion, created a dynamic learning environment that was both accessible and intellectually rigorous.

The program changed how I see financial statements. I now view the 10-K and other reports not just as financial tools, but as strategic documents that reveal a company’s core business drivers and market values. That perspective has helped me better assess risk, opportunity, and growth potential.

The program expanded my strategic lens. It deepened my understanding of how value is created, evaluated, and communicated. I’m now better equipped to align decisions with long-term business sustainability and stakeholder needs.

If you're seeking a powerful lens into strategic value creation and corporate governance, this program is essential. It offers actionable insight, expert faculty, and tools that immediately apply to high-level leadership and strategy.

If you have questions about the program or are interested in enrolling or sponsoring someone in your organization, please don’t hesitate to contact Christine Tom at christine.tom@gsb.columbia.edu or +1 212-851-2505.