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e’ve all heard that healthcare is a growing industry. As the Baby Boomer generation continues to age, their requirements for health services are going up. According to Forbes Magazine, jobs in healthcare are growing at their fastest pace since the economic boom of the 1990’s. In fact, 17 of the 30 fastest-growing jobs in the nation are in the healthcare industry. With so much opportunity and diversity in this field, how can you find the right job in healthcare for you?
First, it’s important to address some key questions about what type of work you want to do and how you’re going to achieve your career goals.
What motivates you to pursue a job in healthcare?
Ask yourself why a job in healthcare appeals to you. In addition to salary requirements, you should also ask what kind of position you think you would enjoy. Most people will spend eight to ten hours a day at their chosen workplace. So choose one that’s a good fit for your interests. Do you enjoy interacting with people? Are you passionate about helping others? Are you interested in management or in creating and maintaining organizational structures? Pinpointing your precise passion can help you choose the right career path.
Do you want a clinical or non-clinical position?
In the medical industry, this is often referred to as seeking a “clinical” versus “non-clinical” position. Clinicians are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions and are responsible for direct patient care, such as doctors, nurses, and medical assistants. Non-clinical support and administrative staff provide indirect patient care and ensure the smooth running of hospitals, clinics, agencies and offices. These jobs include positions in medical billing and coding, transcription, and hospital administration. Examples of additional job titles are: receptionist, pharmaceutical representative, patient advocate, caseworker, administrator and manager within practices and hospitals. At Antioch University Midwest, we offer programs in Healthcare Administration and Management that are well-suited to those seeking nonclinical jobs.
How are you going to get the education and training you need?
Most healthcare positions require or prefer that potential candidates have very specific types of education and training. Be sure to explore the education requirements for the position you’re interested in. Ask plenty of questions about costs, financing, and program requirements. If you are transferring credits from another learning institution, ensure that the university you’ve chosen will recognize those credits.
Finally, do your research. Do you know someone who has the healthcare job that you think would be perfect for you? Ask them about their career and how they got there. Find out as much as you can about their day-to-day joys and challenges to ensure that your expectations line up with the reality of the position.
Whatever path you choose, Antioch University Midwest has skilled academic support professionals that can help you navigate the requirements of your chosen career.
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