The unchanging of healthcare. Diversity still hard to find in top executive ranks

Look around at the next conference of top-level healthcare executives. Chances are, the faces will appear mostly white. While there might be a few women, it's likely the number of blacks and Latinos will be minimal. Years of effort to increase the diversity has made some progress, but most in the industry agree there's a long way to go. Keith Brady (left), one of the few black CEOs who has made it in the private, for-profit sector, cites the influence of mentoring.

1997 up and comers

Leadership is both singular and diverse, subtle and bold. It moves others, transcends the obvious and stretches the boundaries of achievement. And it's always passionate about what it does. Being a leader in today's complex, evolving healthcare industry is an especially challenging task. Modern Healthcare salutes this year's "Up & Comers," 13 young executives, all 40 or under, who already have made their marks and will help shape the future of healthcare.

It pays to be the boss. Survey shows top hospital execs' pay hikes leave little for other managers in departments

Modern Healthcare's annual survey of salary and compensation trends shows that it truly pays to be the boss. This year's data show the healthiest pay hikes in three years for hospital managers, directors and executives. The overall pay raise--defined as the increase in cash compensation--averaged 4.2% in this year's survey, up from 3.48% last year and 2.47% in 1995. See page 76 for a comprehensive list of the winners and losers.

Medical mecca. Foreign patients flock to Miami seeking care and service

Just like every place else in the U.S., hospitals in Miami are hurting for patients, one result of high managed-care penetration in the market. But the city's healthcare facilities have found an answer. Long an international center of business and tourism, Miami has become a medical mecca, catering to overseas patients who feel at home in the heavily foreign-flavored metropolitan area.