We’ve collected a panel of over 10 healthcare recruiting experts to discuss industry trends, job search tactics, and career development strategies to provide an insider’s look at the current healthcare job market in detail.
This is the second in a series of three pieces (and a fairly long post!), but for those of you seeking healthcare jobs, it’s worth a read! Check out our main blog page for last week’s feature and stay tuned for the next, being posted next Monday.
The Panel of Experts:
- John Fulcher, Director, Healthcare Division, Bauer Healthcare
- Bryon Mecham, Recruiting Manager, MedSys Group
- Katie Niekrash, Senior Managing Director, Healthcare, The Execu|Search Group
- Lori Schutte, President, Cejka Search
What are the trends you’re seeing in the healthcare industry currently and where is the future of the industry headed?
John: In the Hospital side of healthcare there are a lot of changes, especially in Service Line Development, Surgery and Health Information Management.
Byron: From an IT perspective, the healthcare industry is going through its biggest transformation in history. Two forces are pushing right now: the government is mandating it, and the patients are screaming for it. The evolution of healthcare to the digital age is being demanded. Therefore, the trend right now is hospitals being very aggressive with innovation at the technology level. They are spending at an unprecedented rate to capture all of the patient data electronically. The coming trend is going to be, “What do we do with the data now that we have it?”
Lori: Before healthcare reform, organizations and practitioners were rewarded for the number of procedures performed, hospital beds occupied and other volume-driven metrics. Now and in the future – value will be rewarded with providers accountable for the outcome of the care and avoiding unnecessary medication, treatment, testing and hospitalization.
What are some healthcare jobs with an increased demand, and which jobs in healthcare are becoming extinct?
John: Leadership roles in the areas of Surgery and Orthopedics and roles at the Regional or Division Level to oversee multiple organizations within the corporation are in demand.
Byron: We are seeing a push for people with ICD-10 background and those who can build in the applications. Those people who are certified and have a good deal of experience are what people are clamoring for.
Katie: We have seen an uptick in primary care hiring for MDs and midlevels (Nurse Practitioners & Physician Assistants). The demand for experienced RNs is also strong, especially because another nursing shortage is expected to hit in the next couple of years. Home Care is another industry that is doing a significant amount of hiring at this time.
Lori: Primary care physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants have been identified as the quarterbacks of care. They are in extremely high demand – 77% of medical group leaders recently reported that they will be hiring more Primary Care physicians in the coming year. No jobs in healthcare will become extinct, but individuals lacking teamwork skills and willingness to learn new technology and care models will be bypassed for the best jobs.
What are some strategies that job seekers can use to be more attractive to healthcare recruiters and institutions?
John: Job seekers should align themselves with recruiters or head hunters that have a proven track record in placing candidates in the space they want to work. It’s also important to join organizations or groups that can align them with the key players in the industry.
Byron: Job seekers are best served by aligning themselves with reputable companies and recruiters who are experienced and in the industry for the long haul. Keep an updated resume and really customize the resume to meet each individual job.
Lori: Be ready to share specific examples and measurable outcomes about your ability to adapt to change, lead change and work as a productive team member.
Any other advice for those seeking healthcare industry jobs?
John: Looking for the right position is a marathon and not a sprint. If you are truly unhappy in your current role begin looking earlier rather later.
Byron: Beware of companies that will grab your information online and send to hospitals without ever talking to you. This hinders your ability to get jobs at hospitals. Always stick with a reputable company that your best interest in mind. A company that offers salary with benefits and will follow up with you.
Katie: There are a plethora of opportunities available right now, so it’s a great time to look for a job! Don’t be afraid to make a change. Sometimes, just going on some interviews will make you realize that you’re even less satisfied in your current role than you thought.
Lori: Health care is undergoing a messy, confusing and somewhat chaotic period. Job seekers who can transfer skills from one setting or one sub-set of healthcare (for example, from managed care to a health system) will have their choice of opportunities. And, while skills are transferrable, you values are more deeply ingrained. Carefully assess the culture of the organization you are considering and communicate the attributes that are important to you. It is in your mutual best interests to ensure a strong fit.
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