Are you a healthcare worker who’s having some time out from the profession? Maybe you took a break to explore other opportunities, raise a family, or simply needed some time away. Whatever the reason, you might be wondering if it's time to make a return. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why you might consider making a comeback and how to make the return as straightforward as possible.
A growing need:
With demand for healthcare professionals reaching record high in 2022 – the NHS actually had a 10% deficit in its planned workforce at one point – skilled and experienced healthcare workers are needed now more than ever. Not only did the pandemic highlight the essential role healthcare workers play in our society, but it served to exacerbate existing workforce challenges and both the NHS and private healthcare providers are actively recruiting to address the increasing demand for healthcare services.
Job security:
Healthcare offers a level of job security that is hard to match in other industries. The demand for healthcare services remains steady, even during economic downturns. With an ageing population and increasing healthcare needs, which were only worsened during the pandemic, there’s no question that healthcare professionals are in high demand, which ultimately means greater job stability.
Career advancement:
Returning to a role in healthcare can open up new opportunities for career advancement. Whether you're a nurse, therapist, healthcare assistant or other care professional, the sector offers a wide range of specialisations and roles. You could even explore different areas and advance your career in ways that align with your interests and aspirations.
Fulfilment and purpose:
Many healthcare professionals find immense satisfaction in their work. The feeling of making a positive impact on patients' lives and contributing to the well-being of your community can be incredibly rewarding. If you’re feeling somewhat unfulfilled in your current role, a return to healthcare could reignite that sense of purpose and passion for your career.
Flexible options:
The great thing about the healthcare sector is the variety of work arrangements it offers, so you can tailor your work to your current lifestyle. You can choose full-time or part-time positions, flexible hours, or even opt for temporary assignments, allowing you to strike a balance between your career and personal life.
Here are some steps to consider when returning:
Update your skills: If you've been away from the field for some time, consider taking refresher courses or attending workshops to update your skills and knowledge.
Networking: Reconnect with former colleagues, mentors, and healthcare networks to stay informed about job opportunities and industry developments.
Review your CV: Tailor your CV to highlight your previous healthcare experience and transferrable skills gained during your time away.
Interview preparation: Prepare for interviews by researching current healthcare trends and practicing common interview questions.
Seek support: Reach out to healthcare recruitment agencies or job placement services for assistance in finding the right job opportunities – here at gap healthcare, we’ve got both temporary and permanent placements on offer.
Returning to healthcare can be an incredibly fulfilling and worthwhile decision. Your skills and expertise are invaluable, with both the NHS and private sectors eager to welcome back experienced professionals. So, if you’re ready why not take the leap, rediscover the reasons why you trained in the first place, find a sense of purpose and make a positive impact on the lives of others. Your comeback could actually be the next chapter of an exciting career.
If you need any support whilst making your decision, one of experienced consultants would be more than happy to help – get in touch today.
