Staying Relevant in the Healthcare Industry
Rapid change is the hallmark of many industries today, and that includes the healthcare industry. The good news for healthcare professionals is that there will be plenty of jobs available — according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), healthcare occupations are expected to add the most jobs of any industry, with employment increasing by 10.8 percent, or 15.6 million, through 2022.
However, it is vital for healthcare professionals to remain relevant as technology and medical advances improve, and the needs of the patient population shift. Whether you’re looking to change jobs, enter the healthcare workforce, or re-enter the health profession after an absence, these tips will help you stay relevant and employable.
Know your way around technology
Even in positions that don’t make use of advanced technology, today’s healthcare professionals need to be tech-savvy. Practically everything runs on computer systems — and the more technologically proficient you are, the more job opportunities you’ll have in the healthcare industry.
Knowing how to use mobile technology can also help you stay relevant. More health professionals are working with smartphones and tablets in clinical situations, running a variety of apps that help them stay organized and efficient. Mobile devices are now commonly used at the point of care for communication, information and records access, resource access, and more.
Stay on top of the trade
Whether you’re defining or refining your career goals, in order to remain relevant, you need to be aware of the current trends and changes in the medical industry. Reading the latest trade journals and magazines can help you stay informed about the healthcare industry, and can also let you identify new opportunities for jobs or career paths. There are many publications targeted to particular healthcare fields, such as doctors, nurses, or technicians.
Another effective way to keep up with the industry is to join a relevant professional healthcare association. Professional groups exist for nearly every medical career track, from social services and therapy to pharmacology, radiology, and specialized medical fields like oncology or pediatric care.
Grow your healthcare network
Just as with any other career, networking is one of the most effective ways to find employment in healthcare. The more people you know in your field, the better your chances of getting referrals that can lead to a job. Online networking through social media, especially LinkedIn, is a great way to get started. Be sure to fill out your personal profile in detail, including your skills, education, and experience. Participate in industry conversations, and make connections with influential professionals in your field.
There are also several offline networking activities for healthcare professionals. Healthcare job fairs are held regularly in major cities around the country, and they’re great places to make professional connections and find job leads.
Keep your skills sharp and your mind open
Ongoing education is a large part of any healthcare professional’s career, whether you’re currently employed or looking for a position. Taking additional classes, or refresher courses in skills or disciplines you haven’t practiced recently, can help you enhance your resume and keep your skills relevant. You can also obtain certifications relating to your main field to increase relevance and employability.
Finally, it’s important to keep an open mind when it comes to career decisions. With rapid changes in the healthcare industry, the responsibilities for given positions may shift, creating roles that may not be right for you — and new opportunities are constantly being created. Don’t assume you need to work in the position you’d originally planned. Research the available options, and aim for a medical career you’ll love. To learn more about how we can help you find your next behavioral health position, contact us today at (513) 651-9500 or by email at [email protected].