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The healthcare industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the world, driven by technological advancements, changing patient expectations, and population health. The need for skilled healthcare professionals is only projected to increase throughout 2024 and the foreseeable future. In this blog we will explore the most sought-after healthcare careers and the essential skills you’ll need to excel in 2024 and beyond.

 

Top Careers in Healthcare for 2024

• • Nurse practitioners: Nurse practitioners are advanced practice nurses, who have post-graduate education and training in nursing. They provide a wide range of primary and specialty care services and are in high demand due to the aging population and the increasing number of people with chronic conditions. Nurse practitioners are a valuable asset to the healthcare system, and they will continue to play an increasingly important role in providing high-quality, affordable care to patients in 2024.
  • Physician assistants: Physician assistants are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a physician. They perform a variety of tasks, including taking medical histories, performing physical exams, and prescribing medications. They are in high demand due to the shortage of physicians. Physician assistants provide care in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
  • Medical laboratory technicians: Medical laboratory technicians are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting laboratory samples. They are in high demand due to the increasing use of laboratory tests in healthcare. Medical laboratory technicians will play a critical role in the healthcare system in 2024, ensuring the accuracy and timely delivery of laboratory test results that inform patient diagnoses, treatment decisions, and preventive measures.
  • Home health aides: Home health aides provide personal care and support services to patients in their homes. They are in high demand due to the increasing number of people who are choosing to stay out of skilled nursing facilities. In the coming year, home health aides will continue to contribute to improving patient quality of life, reducing hospital readmissions, and easing the burden on families.
  • Information technology (IT) professionals: IT professionals are responsible for the maintenance and security of computer systems in healthcare organizations. They are in high demand due to the increasing use of technology in healthcare, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a substantial rise in IT employment over the next ten years. IT professionals’ expertise is essential for the healthcare industry to function effectively in today’s digital world.

 

Now that we’ve uncovered some of the top careers for the coming year, let’s review some of the necessary skills required to land and succeed in your dream role within healthcare.

 

• • Digital Health Skills – Healthcare providers are increasingly using digital tools to deliver care and manage patient data, so skills in telemedicine (providing care remotely through virtual platforms), Electronic Health Records (accessing, navigating, and using electronic health records to document patient care, review medical history, and communicate), and data analytics (collecting, organizing, and analyzing healthcare data to improve patient care) will continue to be paramount.
  • Preventive and Early Intervention Skills – The focus on preventive care and early intervention continues to grow in healthcare, as providers strive to prevent chronic diseases and improve patient outcomes. These skills will continue to be in high demand in 2024: Risk assessment (identifying individuals at risk for developing specific health problems) and chronic disease management (providing ongoing care to patients with chronic diseases to help them manage their condition and prevent complications).
  • Value-Based Care Skills – The healthcare industry is transitioning to a value-based care model, which emphasizes quality and patient outcomes over the volume of services provided. The ability to communicate effectively with patients and understand their needs is vital, as is being skilled in quality improvement, data analysis and change management. Healthcare professionals who develop these skills will be well-positioned to succeed in the evolving healthcare industry and provide high-quality care to patients.

 

As we look to 2024, the healthcare industry is showing no signs of slowing down. The top careers and skills that we’ve highlighted are only some of the forces shaping the future of healthcare. To truly thrive in this industry, healthcare professionals will need to be adaptable, lifelong learners, and committed to providing patient-centered care. By doing so, they can play a pivotal role in revolutionizing healthcare. Keep an eye out for additional healthcare industry content, as well as other market findings in future blogs.