Whether you are currently in school or looking to transition a career field, healthcare is the place to be. While you may envision this means becoming a doctor or nurse that is not the case. You can be a case manager, a care transition coordinator, an administrative assistant, a cook, an environmental aide or any number of other roles.
The healthcare industry is one where many occupations come together to help those who need care. The diverse career opportunities allow you to get into the type of work that you love to do.
This industry is one where there will always be a need. People will always need medical services, whether it be due to illness, accident, physical decline or other condition. This means you can have a career in healthcare that lasts decades, pursuing a passion you care about and growing with a company that supports you.
You can help others
Healthcare is a profession where you can make a difference in the lives of those who need help, and everyone plays an important part. At Encompass Health, for example, no matter what you do in our hospitals or homecare locations, you can contribute to healing by being positive, listening to patients and helping meet their needs. Patients can benefit emotionally and physically from good food, clean rooms and friendly conversation while they are going through challenging medical situations.
This is a hot career field and should be so for several decades
Baby boomers are requiring more medical services as they age and at the same time, healthcare providers need high quality, patient-focused caregivers. According the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 19 million people in the United States currently worked in healthcare as of 2016, including support roles such as nutrition and environmental services or administrative roles. Healthcare is expected to grow by 18% between 2016 and 2026.
Healthcare tech is evolving
Think about how healthcare used to be. Paper charts, inefficient processes and systems that focused on a one-size-fits-all approach. Healthcare should focus on individual needs using methods that ensure high-quality care with open communication and choice. Many providers are starting to embrace technology using an electronic medical records system to ensure accurate records are kept in real time.
These systems can do even more than just keep records in one place. Encompass Health has collaborated with Cerner to use predictive analytics to detect if vital signs and laboratory results fall outside safe parameters. With this information, the care team can act to prevent sepsis.
There are career options
Working in this industry can be so much more than just another job. If you find the right company, you can find multiple career paths and tools to support your growth. Keep in mind that not every employer is equal in this area. Some organizations do not have the career development resources necessary to help you explore career options and support you with programs and tools.
You should:
- Look for organizations that provide tuition reimbursement, opportunities to learn new skills and encourage their staff to grow.
- Determine if a potential employer has resources to support career growth. Look for employers that have structured development plans you can use to organize and implement your next steps to grow your career with the support of your manager.
- Explore opportunities to get involved in teams, such as performance improvement teams or an inclusion and diversity committee.
When you go to an interview, remember it is an opportunity for an amazing career. Make sure you ask about how you can grow your skills and develop professionally. Employers that have strong career opportunities want employees who are interested in developing themselves. It truly is a win-win.
Whatever you do, make sure an employer is the right fit for you and your needs. After all, finding a career with a great organization is much better than just another job.
Take the next step on your career path with Encompass Health
Encompass Health is a a national leader in integrated healthcare services, offering both facility-based and home-based patient care through its network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, home health agencies and hospice agencies. If you are interested in learning more about career opportunities at Encompass Health, please visit our website.
We also invite you to stay in touch with us by joining our talent community so a member of our recruitment team can email you with more information.
The content of this site is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding any medical conditions or treatments.
