John Rhodes Talks About A Career In Health Care Law

John Rhodes, '05, presented "A Career in Health Care Law," on Wednesday, February 3, 2021. His virtual visit was hosted by the Business and Transactional Law Center (BTLC) and the Center for Law and Government. Rhodes is the Lead Regulatory Counsel for Walmart Health & Wellness, teaches a course on health care law and ethics at Southern New Hampshire University, and serves on the board of the Gift of Adoption – Colorado Chapter. He has spent his legal career in various sectors of health care law working for Foulston Siefken, DaVita, DaVita Medical Group, Fennemore Craig (promoted to Chief Privacy Officer), and currently Walmart Health & Wellness and Southern New Hampshire University.

Rhodes' presentation, A Career in Health Care Law, focused on explaining what health care law is, what it encompasses, where the field is headed, and why it matters. Rhodes began his presentation by sharing valuable information he wishes he had received in law school and encouraged students to recognize the value of the education they are receiving at Washburn Law. Rhodes next turned a discussion of why health care law matters.

Rhodes pointed out the increase in spending by the U.S. on health care (5.4% per year) and the projections for 2027 ($6 trillion). He spoke about overall spending in the health care sector, regulators of the field, and the variety of careers offered. These careers ranged from attorneys practicing as general counsel or in governmental roles, to corporate officers and managers who operate in the private sector.

Overall, Rhodes’ presentation gave students a needed perspective on health care law and the opportunities to practice in many compacities in the field. Washburn Law is grateful to John Rhodes for taking the time out of his busy schedule to share his insight and answer questions from the students.