Bernard Robert’s dedication to health law is evident through his hands-on experience in regulatory compliance, litigation, and policy. From competing in national health law competitions to investigating Medicaid fraud, Bernard shares insights on navigating the complexities of healthcare law, balancing leadership roles, and his vision for making a lasting impact.
As a part-time law student balancing a rigorous legal education with an accomplished career, how do you manage your time effectively, and what strategies have helped you succeed?
Time is my most valuable resource, and managing it effectively can be challenging. For me, action has always been the antithesis of anxiety. I rely heavily on my calendar to stay busy, organized, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Setting alerts, breaking tasks into smaller, achievable goals, and using strategic time-blocking have been instrumental in balancing my legal studies with my professional responsibilities. These strategies help me stay focused, maximize productivity, and maintain a structured approach to both work and academics.
You’ve been actively involved in health law competitions, including the Loyola L. Edward Bryant Jr. National Health Law Transactional Competition and the UMD Health Law Regulatory & Compliance Competition, where you placed third. What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from these experiences?
There is no substitute for hands-on experience. The competitions simulated real-world scenarios that health law practitioners face, allowing me to apply both my legal skills and substantive knowledge in a practical setting. The experience sharpened my ability to analyze complex regulatory issues, think critically under pressure, work with a team, and develop strategic solutions—essential skills for a successful career in health law.
You transferred to Seton Hall Law after your first year at Pace. What drew you to Seton Hall, and how has your experience here shaped your legal education and career goals?
I was drawn to Seton Hall Law for its nationally recognized excellence in health law and its top-tier part-time program. Knowing that I wanted to build a career in health law, I sought an institution where I could learn from leading experts in the field. The part-time program, which offers weekend classes, is perfectly designed for established professionals, allowing me to pursue my legal education without compromising my career. Transferring to Seton Hall has provided me with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel in my legal studies and future career.
With extensive experience in the healthcare industry, from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield to legal internships at the Office of the New York State Attorney General and Thyme Care, what inspired you to transition from healthcare consulting into law?
During graduate school, I conducted a month-long research study in Nairobi, Kenya, aimed at understanding the prevalence of pediatric asthma in a specific community. My work involved identifying contributing factors and developing mitigation strategies in collaboration with the Kenyan Ministry of Health. That experience ignited my passion for health law and policy, as I saw firsthand how legal and regulatory frameworks shape healthcare outcomes. I realized that to drive meaningful, large-scale change in population health, I needed to understand and influence the legal and policy structures governing healthcare. This realization ultimately led me to pursue law school, where I could combine my industry experience with legal expertise to make a broader impact.
At SUNY Downstate Medical Center’s Office of General Counsel, you worked on hospital compliance and litigation. How did this experience deepen your understanding of health law, and what challenges did you find most interesting?
My experience at SUNY Downstate highlighted the multifaceted nature of health law. I had the opportunity to work with a highly skilled team on a wide range of issues, from regulatory compliance with state and federal laws to active litigation matters. I found the complexities of healthcare litigation particularly interesting because they required navigating intricate legal frameworks while balancing the practical realities of patient care and hospital operations. This experience deepened my understanding of the legal challenges healthcare institutions face and reinforced my passion for health law.
Your work at the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit involves investigating fraud and abuse in the healthcare system. Can you share an insight into how this experience has influenced your perspective on healthcare regulations and enforcement?
My work at the New York Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit reinforced the critical role of regulation and enforcement in protecting patients. At its core, healthcare regulation exists to safeguard those who entrust their well-being to the system. Patients rely on healthcare providers to act in their best interests, but without proper oversight, that trust can be exploited. While this principle is emphasized in my coursework at Seton Hall, it truly came to life through my hands-on experience investigating fraud and abuse. I saw firsthand how enforcement not only holds bad actors accountable but also promotes compliance, punishes misconduct, and protects vulnerable populations.
You’ve held leadership roles in multiple organizations, from serving as a Student Representative for the Health Law Forum to competing on the Mock Trial Team Board. What leadership qualities do you believe are essential for success in law school and beyond?
Composure, resilience, and sound decision-making. Law school is an incredible opportunity, but at times, it can make you feel like a kite dancing in a hurricane. Maintaining composure despite overwhelming obstacles allows me to stay focused and perform under pressure. Resilience is crucial for overcoming the inevitable setbacks and demands of law school. Additionally, being a law student comes with competing priorities and unintended social side effects. Strong decision-making skills help me allocate my time wisely, ensuring that I prioritize my coursework, maintain meaningful relationships, and contribute effectively to my leadership roles.
As a Public Health Committee Board Member for Queens Community Board 9, what initiatives or projects have you been involved in that you’re particularly passionate about?
Serving as a Public Health Committee Board Member has been a fulfilling experience, allowing me to make a tangible impact in my community. Our work includes hosting events, conducting town halls, and serving as a bridge between residents and elected officials. I am particularly passionate about expanding access to care. One initiative that stands out was advocating for improved healthcare access, where community members voiced their concerns directly to policymakers. This effort played a role in helping local hospitals secure funding for expansion, ultimately improving healthcare services for those in need.
Your interests include collecting international currencies, playing musical instruments, and real estate. How do these hobbies influence your approach to law and your long-term career aspirations?
My hobbies meaningfully shape my approach to law school and my long-term career aspirations. Traveling and collecting international currencies broaden my perspective, enhancing my ability to appreciate diverse viewpoints—an essential skill in the classroom, negotiations, and legal practice. Playing musical instruments has helped me develop versatility and confidence in high-pressure situations, skills I draw from during mock trial competitions. Real estate serves as both a passion and a way to disconnect from the demands of law, allowing me to maintain a well-rounded perspective while fostering strategic thinking.
Where do you see yourself in five years, and how do you hope to make an impact in the field of health law and compliance?
Increasingly, I have developed a passion for healthcare litigation. In five years, I see myself as an experienced litigator specializing in healthcare regulatory matters. My goal is to enhance compliance by developing or implementing tools such as integrity agreements and assurances of discontinuance, ensuring that healthcare organizations uphold the highest standards of integrity. More importantly, I intend to use health law as a means to protect patients who place their trust in the healthcare system. Ultimately, I aspire to contribute to a more efficient, ethical, and equitable healthcare landscape through my legal expertise.
