The Fastest-Growing Sectors in Healthcare
The healthcare sector is burgeoning as the population increases and ages on both sides of the Tasman.
SEEK research shows the Australian healthcare and medical industry growing by 11.1% in 2017, with around 14,000 new roles advertised. In New Zealand, SEEK figures show job ads in the healthcare and medical industry were up 9% year on year from April to June 2017.
And it’s not just doctors who are needed – there are a number of other sectors where professionals are in demand.
PHYSIOTHERAPY, OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AND REHABILITATION
According to SEEK figures, the most rapid growth in healthcare jobs in Australia is happening here. These roles made up 2.1% of the total growth in job opportunities.
Specific training is needed to enter physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Yet both fields offer rewarding careers in a high-demand industry.
Assessment and treatment services can be carried out in a range of settings including clinics, community health centres, residential care settings and the client’s own home.
A variety of openings also exists in rehabilitation. This helps patients get back to normal function and living via treatment in hospitals, residential care, retirement villages, medical practices, sports clinics and homes.
PSYCHOLOGY, COUNSELLING AND SOCIAL WORK
This is the next biggest area of healthcare growth. Advertised roles in psychology, counselling and social work made up 1.9% of growth in advertised jobs. In New Zealand, job opportunities in this sector were up 31% year on year.
The increased stress of modern life is accelerating demand for these therapeutic services. As the population ages, more help will also be needed to maintain people’s emotional health and well-being.
Years of intensive study and training is required by those wanting to practice as a fully qualified psychologist. Specific qualifications are also needed in counselling and social work.
However, a career in these helping professions can be hugely rewarding. Jobs in the sector are also likely to grow as the population continues growing and ageing.
Candidates can work across many locations including hospitals, medical centres, government departments, community outreach and private practice.
AGED CARE NURSING
This field made up 1.6% of growth in advertised jobs in Australia. Aged care nursing is also a growth area in New Zealand, with job ads in this sector up 8% year on year.
Aged care nursing can cover a number of different roles including clinical nurse, disability worker and personal care worker.
Jobs exist in multiple settings. These include hospitals, private residential care, government homes and medical centres. Mobile nurses who visit patients in their own homes will also be in hot demand.
Whatever health sector you’re interested in, a specialist recruitment agency is a great way to identify the right healthcare job opportunities and win a healthcare interview.
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