As part of our ongoing commitment to support allied health educators and employers, we at the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) are excited to share our latest 2024 Industry Outlook Report. This report is more than just a collection of statistics; it's a compass that guides you through the ever-changing landscape of healthcare.

The healthcare sector is evolving rapidly, with staffing and retention at the forefront of many organizations' strategic planning. In response, data-driven approaches are increasingly being adopted to refine recruitment and training processes. The National Healthcareer Association® (NHA) provides valuable resources that align with these data-centric strategies, aiding healthcare employers in their quest to build resilient and skilled teams.

The healthcare industry is plagued by high turnover rates, which significantly affect both patient care and the operations of healthcare facilities. The emotionally taxing and demanding nature of healthcare jobs often drives professionals to seek other opportunities. High turnover also affects the morale of remaining staff, increases workload, and can lead to a decline in patient care quality.

In the United States, the healthcare industry is confronted with the intricate issue of workforce shortages, but a collaborative network of employers, educators, and healthcare partners such as NHA are actively engaged in working towards a solution. According to a striking data point from Becker's Hospital Review, the U.S. could encounter a shortage of more than 3.2 million allied healthcare workers, such as medical assistants, home health aides, and nursing assistants, within the following five years. Demographic shifts and the retirement of seasoned professionals exacerbate this situation.  

The healthcare industry is facing a shortage of qualified professionals, and employers are increasingly looking to CTE health science students to gain the certification needed to fill the employment pipeline. However, not all certifications are created equal.

The healthcare industry continues to face a shortage of qualified providers. Hospital administrators have the unfathomably difficult job of maintaining sufficient healthcare staffing levels in a high-pressure environment with complex regulations and budget constraints.