Burnout is a clear and present danger in the healthcare industry. The mental health affliction is especially prevalent among healthcare workers. The CDC reported that up to 46% of health workers suffered from pandemic-linked burnout in 2022.
A study review by George Washington University further assessed burnout rates in women in healthcare. It found that they experienced significantly more stress than their male counterparts. A key finding of the study was gender inequality in the workplace.
Workplace stress comes with the territory. For healthcare professionals, pivoting to a completely different career isn’t an option. But what if there was room to transition while still working in healthcare?
Below, we’ll discuss three ways to make the easy transition from one healthcare role to another.
#1 Entering the Nursing Profession
There’s a quote that says, “Save one life, you’re a hero. Save 100 lives, you’re a nurse.” Nurses are the unseen heroes of every hospital, choosing to work diligently behind the scenes. It’s not surprising that nursing is the largest healthcare profession in the U.S.
According to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, there are close to 4.7 million registered nurses across the country. About 89% of registered nurses are employed.
The first year of nursing could be the most rewarding of your new career, presenting opportunities and challenges. If you’re an excellent communicator and relish interacting with patients on a human level, nursing might be just what the doctor ordered.
Acquiring a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) could take you as little as 15 months if you are eligible for the acceleration requirements. Depending on your location, a nursing school may offer courses either in-person or online.
There’s the option of hybrid courses that combine online and direct patient care, which is great for giving first year nursing students first-hand experience in nursing programs.
With so many online scams out there, you need to check if the course is accredited by a reputable organization. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine states that its BSN program is accredited and recognized by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
#2 Health Education
Health education is a vast profession. Most health workers who choose this route tend to become health education specialists. They develop teaching programs on conditions affecting well-being and are employed in hospitals, NPOs and government agencies.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Stats predicts this sector is displaying the fastest rate of growth at 7% which is faster than average.
A strong sense of empathy and healthcare system experience could make you the perfect candidate for the role. Even better if you majored in nursing science education or are an experienced nurse, says Forbes Advisor.
Often health education specialists work closely with the community and advocate for policies that improve public health. That’s why obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in health education or health promotion is crucial for advancing in this field.
A B.S. in Health Education can open the door to other careers in the health education sector such as health coach, corporate wellness trainer and health program analyst.
#3 Become a Healthcare Recruiter
The trauma of working in healthcare can take its toll. Bearing witness to traumatic events while on the job has mental repercussions.
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are recognized as a leading predictor of PTSD. According to multiple studies cited by STAT, nurses and physicians with elevated ACE scores are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing burnout..
The answer isn’t always exchanging one set of problems for another. It’s about choosing a career without the stress and anxiety that being a healthcare professional presents.
While remaining in the health sector, the job of a healthcare recruiter is as important. Leveraging their extensive network, healthcare recruiters effectively place skilled professionals in hospitals and various healthcare organizations.
Nurses with connections in the industry often pivot to this role. Good communication skills and being detail-oriented will work in your favor. Some positions require a nursing degree or a master’s degree.
The healthcare recruitment landscape is forever changing. Onrec says attracting top talent is one of the hardest challenges for a healthcare recruiter. Having the gift of the gab is strongly suggested. The recruitment portal advises recruiters to be creative in convincing physicians to join their organization.
An attractive soft skill is to be tech-savvy and have some knowledge of applicant tracking systems, data analytics and conducting virtual interviews.
There you have it! If you’re strongly considering making a career change but are daunted by the prospect, don’t be. Change is as good as a holiday. At the end of the day, the only things that matter are a positive working environment and being happy in your job.
