Economic conditions can change quickly. Businesses may slow hiring and some industries may reduce their workforces when demand falls. Healthcare stands out because people continue to need medical care even when the broader economy changes.
People still need medical appointments, emergency treatment, rehabilitation, laboratory testing, home health services, and long-term care. An aging population can also increase the need for healthcare workers.
Healthcare jobs are not protected from layoffs or financial pressure. However, the ongoing need for health services makes this field worth exploring, especially because there are careers for people with different education and training levels.
1. Healthcare Needs Continue When the Economy Slows
Many industries depend on how much consumers spend. Healthcare works differently. Someone who is injured, has a chronic condition, or needs daily care may not be able to delay treatment because of economic conditions.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects healthcare and social assistance to be major sources of employment growth in the coming years.
An aging population is one reason. Older adults often need more medical and personal care services. Employers also need workers to replace people who retire, change careers, or leave their occupations.
2. A Four-Year Degree Is Not Always Required
Healthcare includes much more than doctors and registered nurses. Depending on the occupation and state requirements, workers may enter the field through certificates, vocational programs, associate degrees, apprenticeships, or other specialized training.
Careers to research include:
- Medical assistants
- Nursing assistants
- Phlebotomists
- Pharmacy technicians
- Emergency medical technicians
- Dental assistants
- Medical records specialists
- Home health and personal care aides
- Licensed practical or vocational nurses
- Radiologic technologists
- Surgical technologists
Requirements vary by occupation and state. Before enrolling, check the education, certification, and licensing requirements for the specific job.
Community colleges and technical schools can be useful starting points. Compare several programs and make sure the training prepares students for any required licenses or certifications.
3. Healthcare Offers Ways to Keep Building Skills
Education does not always have to happen all at once. Some people begin in support or entry-level healthcare positions and later return to school for another credential.
Possible areas for continued education include:
- Nursing
- Medical imaging
- Respiratory care
- Health information technology
- Medical laboratory technology
- Healthcare administration
- Occupational therapy assistance
- Physical therapist assistance
Advancement is not automatic. A new occupation may require additional education, clinical experience, certification, or licensing.
Before choosing a step-by-step education path, check whether previous credits or credentials can transfer into the next program.
4. Public Resources May Help With Training Costs
Training costs can make a healthcare career difficult to pursue, but several resources may be worth investigating.
Students can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to find out whether they qualify for federal student aid. Eligible students may qualify for programs such as the Federal Pell Grant.
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) also supports employment and training services for eligible participants. American Job Centers can provide information about workforce services and training opportunities available locally.
Other resources to investigate include:
- Community college financial aid
- State workforce agencies
- Employer tuition assistance
- Registered Apprenticeship programs
Eligibility varies. Before enrolling, confirm whether a program qualifies for the assistance you are considering and calculate the full cost, including tuition, books, equipment, exams, transportation, and other expenses.
5. Research the Career Before Paying for Training
Healthcare occupations differ in wages, job growth, schedules, physical demands, and education requirements.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook can help people research typical duties, education requirements, working conditions, wages, and employment projections.
Local job postings can also show what employers commonly require. Compare education, certifications, licenses, starting wages, schedules, experience requirements, and technical skills. Be cautious with schools that promise guaranteed employment or unusually high earnings. Compare programs and confirm that graduates are eligible for required certification or licensing exams.
Healthcare Can Provide Multiple Career Paths Healthcare is not immune to economic changes, but the need for medical and personal care continues.
Certificates, vocational programs, associate degrees, apprenticeships, and other training options can provide pathways into certain healthcare occupations. FAFSA, Federal Pell Grants, American Job Centers, WIOA-supported programs, and community colleges may also help eligible people explore affordable training options.
A useful first step is to identify two or three healthcare careers that interest you. Compare their training requirements, working conditions, local opportunities, and possible career paths. With careful research and continued learning, healthcare can offer several ways to build practical skills and pursue a new career.