Alyson Iuchs ⋅ Edwards , CA Photogenic, Inc ⋅ 5 years experience

The healthcare industry is very competitive, so your experience is an important factor in finding a quality job. There are several job boards that are dedicated solely to the healthcare industry and can be a good place to begin your search. When you have taken some time off from the healthcare industry it can be difficult to get back into the field, but a little hard work and determination will put you right on track. Listed below are three steps to help you find the perfect job in healthcare administration.

Health Administration Occupational Lookout: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm

1. Choose specialization
Healthcare administrators can manage an entire facility, a specific clinic department or a medical practice for a group of physicians. With so many options available in the administration field, it would be beneficial for you to narrow down the area you want to work in. There are also a variety of specializations for healthcare administration such as health insurance, pharmaceutical and home health managers. Once you have decided on the type of place you want to work as well as a couple specializations that fit your background rewrite your resume to focus on those areas. By narrowing down your options you will be able to focus more on those job opportunities.

Essentials for the Health Care Professions:
http://onlinenursing.duq.edu/blog/essential-characteristics-nurse/

2. Volunteer
If you are having difficulties finding a position that is right for you, volunteering can help you get your foot in the door. Volunteering at your local hospital often includes clerical work and can help you gain leadership and job-related skills. It will also give you the chance to network with professionals already in the position you desire. They might have inside information of a new position opening up or they could be a valuable reference to put on your resume. Volunteering will also help you fill in the gaps in your resume and show hiring managers you are committed to helping others.

3. Network
Connections within the healthcare industry can lead you to potential job opening. The school where you obtained your degree will likely have a career services department that can help you locate available jobs as well as fine tune your resume and interview skills. Another place to look for jobs is through professional healthcare organizations. These organizations often hold conferences and events relevant to your field where you can network with other professionals. They can also provide educational news and changes that are happening in the industry. There are numerous healthcare organizations so look for the ones that are closely related to your career specialty and talk to members to learn more about the benefits the group can give you before joining.

Check out more information at the Health Care Administrators Association: http://www.hcaa.org/

The healthcare system is going to have an increased demand for administrators to keep facilities running smoothly as they see more of the aging baby boomer population and increased technology keeping people living longer. Healthcare administrators need to know changes in health care law and new innovations. The healthcare industry can be a rewarding environment to work in. Good luck!

Guide to Healthcare Policy Changes: http://healthlaw.hofstra.edu/resources/infographics/how-health-law-and-policy-changes-affect-public-consumption-habits/

AnnaMaria Bliven ⋅ Blanchardville , WI Army Reserve ⋅ 11 years experience

Hi:

The best place to start is with networking just like you are starting to do with this site. Do you have a Linked In site of your own? I have begun to notice that "internet presence" not just internet marketing is where it's at these days. If anyone is serious about their career and building a future with a career they desire, then you have to have "internet presence that markets you." More and more HR professionals are admitting that after they weed thru resumes, the next thing they do is "google" the names of the applicants and this is how they decide which ones to interview. So it really pays to take the time to make a Linked In profile and research other forums and discussion groups in your career field. Make your presence known so that in addition to your resume that shows what you have done and what you can do, you will also have connections that will help you make more connections that could eventually get you hired.

Wishing you all the best,
AnnaMaria Bliven, abliven@tds.net, 608-426-4184

Tracy Carlton ⋅ Milton , FL U.S. Navy, Petty Officer Second Class ⋅ 8 years served

Hi Lee. I sent you an email. I'm not sure if you got it. Please let me know if you didn't.
Marlow, thank you for your advice. I am looking into ACHE membership.

Marlow H Levy ⋅ Suffolk , VA U.S. Navy, Lieutenant ⋅ 21 years served

Tracy, I would also suggest joining a HCA association such as ACHE. Then, start taking advantage of events sponsored by your local ACHE chapter. These event provide great opportunities for networking with healthcare professionals who can offer significant insight and advice about employment.

Lee Ausmus ⋅ Biloxi , MS U.S. Navy, Lieutenant ⋅ 23 years served

I have been in Health care 27 years; clinical and healthcare administration. VA, DoD, for profit, non for profit, Emergency Mgt, Disaster Relief,etc... There are so many HCA roles from PR, Marketing, HIM to COO, CEO Mat. Mgt, etc. Begin to explore your area of interest. ACP is a great place to start networking as well as Linked. I am currently CNO, COO, DSS in my roles. Risk Mgt, QA, Patient Relations, Finance, Billing & Collections---- you have a lot to consider. Let me know what resume focus & work history you have formed related to varied fields and perhaps I can help you get started. My best, Lee Ausmus RN BSN MA CNOR