Statistics show that Texas has a healthcare workers’ shortage, predicted to last from 2015 to 2030.
Projections from the IHS Inc’s Health Workforce model revealed there would be a shortage for:
- Certified nurse-midwives
- Certified registered nurse anesthetists
- Nurse practitioners
- Registered nurses
Another report shows the Houston healthcare sector will experience a momentous workforce scarcity by 2036. The situation will lead to state losses of approximately $18.6 billion in GDP. There will be 111,000 open jobs if the government fails to develop an adequate workforce pipeline. In this case, the shortage revolves around doctors, medical office specialists, medical assistants, nurse aides, among other specialists. The report is by the Center for Houston’s Future (CHF).
Why the Increasing Shortage in Healthcare Workers?
One factor responsible for the healthcare workers’ shortage is the high Texas population growth rate. The rate is more than twice the national average. Texas has the second largest population in the United States, with almost 28 million residents.
It also ranks highest as the state with the largest annual population. Estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau show this growth trend will continue. The expansion of existing hospitals and construction of new ones is also a favorable response to this trend.
Baby boomers are also living longer and experiencing more chronic illnesses, hence the growing demand for healthcare services. The state documents the shortage of primary care physicians and several other specialists, including psychiatrists.
Approximately 80% of the counties in Texas are mental health professional shortage areas, while 40% of the state’s primary care health needs are currently unmet. Nurses and allied healthcare workers’ shortages contribute to this problem.
Investing in the Future of Healthcare
As COVID-19 continues to spread, it’s clear that healthcare professionals are the backbone of the healthcare system. They’re the frontline heroes who play a role in the containment of the pandemic. Nurses, in particular, play a role in bridging the gap between patients and physicians. HCA Houston has approximately 7,000 registered nurses, making it one of the largest nurse employers in the greater Houston area.
The Texas Legislature has invested a significant amount of money in increasing the size of the skilled workers in Texas. Additional investment is necessary to combat the severe shortage of nurses, physicians, and other professionals in the healthcare industry. Growing the healthcare workforce in Texas is a top priority for the Texas Hospital Association.
Starting a Career in the Healthcare Industry
As the population grows, healthcare jobs become available. The healthcare industry in Texas is a big business in need of skilled leaders and professionals to move the field in the right direction. As Texas continues to experience shortages, it’s an excellent point that this is an ideal time to pursue a career in the healthcare profession.
If you’ve been wondering if this is the right direction to take, the data clearly shows you have a bright future as a healthcare professional. At Southern Careers Institute, we have various programs to help you train in the skills you need to pursue these careers. Contact us today to seek more information about healthcare programs at SCI’s eight campuses in Texas.
This article was published on: 02/7/22 4:47 PM
* SCI does not guarantee employment or a starting salary upon graduation, completion, or withdrawal from SCI. As an accredited post-secondary institution, SCI has various federal financial assistance programs available for students who qualify and are enrolled in SCI programs. This does not apply to seminar students.
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