Why Choose a Career in Healthcare?

Careers in the healthcare industry are rewarding, both personally and professionally. Unlike some other industries, improvements in technology and declines in the economy do not have much of an effect on demand for healthcare professionals, so many people look to these types of careers for long-term job stability. And the intrinsic rewards that come from caring for and helping people in need are valued by people in all levels of healthcare.

The demand for healthcare professionals includes a wide range of occupations, including nurses, medical assistants, technicians, therapists and many other disciplines. Additionally, there is always demand for office and administrative support workers.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor:

• Health services is one of the largest industries in the country, with more than 11 million jobs, including the self-employed
• About 13% of all wage and salary jobs created between 2000 and 2010 will be in health services
• Wage and salary employment in the health services industry is projected to increase more than 25% through 2010 compared to 16% for all industries
• 9 of 20 occupations projected to grow the fastest are concentrated in health services
  
  • Medical Assistant field to increase by 67%
  • Demand for Medical Records and Health Information Technicians to increase 54%
    
• Most jobs require less than 4 years of college education
  
  • 56% of workers in nursing and personal care facilities have a high school diploma or less
  • 25% of workers in hospitals have a high school diploma or less
    

How to Prepare for a Hospital Career
High school or college students who are interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare field should speak with a guidance counselor as early as possible. They may want to begin preparation for a solid background in science - especially biology, chemistry and physics. A variety of training, certification and educational programs are available, and many healthcare careers do not require a four-year college education.

If you are considering a career in healthcare, but are not sure if you are suited, look into Union Hospital’s Volunteer program.

Healthcare Career Links
For more information about pursuing a career in healthcare, click here.