From Ready to Learn to Ready to Heal

As an aging workforce retires, the healthcare industry continues to see growth. From 2014-2024, the healthcare industry will see the fastest economic growth and contribute nearly 40 percent of new jobs — an estimated 3.8 million healthcare jobs. The two fastest growing occupational groups will see an increase of 23 percent and 16 percent, with a combined increase of 2.3 million new jobs, or 1 in 4 new jobs.

A recent national survey found that 54% of healthcare executives reported difficulty finding workers for middle-skill jobs — the second highest rate of all industries in the survey. To continue to thrive, the healthcare industry needs to develop a qualified workforce. While most industry efforts to build a skilled workforce are targeted at older students, a comprehensive solution to the skills gap requires a focus on education and care much earlier in life.

High-quality early childhood programs can start children on the right path by teaching STEM and other skills the healthcare industry needs. This brief goes into further details on the importance of early care and education to the bottom line of the healthcare industry.