7 Things That No One Will Tell You When You Choose a Career in Healthcare

The healthcare industry offers many opportunities to find a satisfying and successful career, helping others. However, there are some challenges and opportunities that are often overlooked by people choosing a career in this field. Here are some of the things that no one will tell you when you are starting your career in healthcare. 

1. The Healthcare Field is Broad

If you are interested in a job in healthcare but do not want to become a physician or nurse, the good news is that doctors and nurses are not the only positions available in the healthcare industry.

There is a vast range of jobs available in healthcare, and many specializations within these jobs. While many jobs in the medical field do require postgraduate or doctoral degrees, there are also many entry-level positions that may only require high school education and a non-degree award.

Explore the various options available to you and choose an area of healthcare that appeals to your skillset as well as your area of interest. The more you are interested in your work, the more you will enjoy your job.

2. The Medical Industry is Constantly Changing

The job you apply for today may not be the job you have 20 years in the future. The medical industry is a dynamic and ever-changing field due to rapidly advancing technologies, an aging population, and the need for new specializations; this is of the reasons that healthcare professionals enjoy working in the medical industry.

However, do not begin a career as a healthcare worker if you are not flexible and adaptable to change. Healthcare is projected to increase by up to 14% over the next 10 years, adding more jobs to the economy than any other sector, so there is huge potential for growth and change over your career. 

3. Training is Not the Same as Education

Many jobs in the healthcare industry require postsecondary and doctoral degrees, which require years of dedicated study. However, while a good education and qualifications are necessary for obtaining a healthcare position, your degree will not totally prepare you for the requirements of your job. 

The single best way to learn your job is on-the-job training and experience. It is for this reason that many colleges have mandatory work placement as part of the curriculum. 

4. You Need to Be Able to Work as Part of a Team

Even the most talented physician or surgeon doesn’t work alone. Collaboration is a key part of the healthcare system, results in better health outcomes for patients, and can help to reduce job stress.

To be a successful medical professional, you must be able to work as part of a team. This means you may need to hone your communication skills, learn to share resources, and consider interdisciplinary upskilling.

5. It Takes Time to Find a Work-Life Balance

During the initial stages of your career, you may find it challenging to find the right balance between your work and life outside your job. Hours can be inconsistent, shifts may be lengthy, and you may need to relocate to find a job that suits your professional needs.

Some of the greatest opportunities can result from taking on these challenges, including expanding your professional network and being able to work at some of the best facilities in the country. These challenges can form the foundation for a successful future career in healthcare. 

6. Stress is a Part of Your Job

The healthcare industry, although highly rewarding, is a fast-paced field that can lead to increased stress and professional burnout if not appropriately managed. Many times, healthcare workers get so caught up care for others that they forget to care for themselves.

This can impact their physical and mental health and have severe consequences for their professional performance, including increased errors and poor interactions with colleagues and patients.  

Take some time daily to practice a little self-care to help to reduce workplace stress. Try guided meditation, going for a short walk, and eating nourishing foods. Build your self-care into your daily routine at work as well as on your days off to manage your stress more effectively. 

7. You Will Be Continually Studying and Learning

Due to the changing nature of healthcare, it is vital that you stay on top of the latest developments and advancements in your field. Healthcare professionals are encouraged, and in most cases, required to participate in continual professional development to keep their minds and skills sharp.

Often, professional development is a necessary part of retaining your license or accreditation. So, if you do not have a love of learning, this aspect of the job could be challenging. 

Last Word

Healthcare is an incredible and rewarding industry, but it is important to be aware of potential challenges and opportunities that await you in your future job to help you navigate your career successfully.

Join MEDIjobs newsletter