Why Heroes for Healthcare
Unemployed Veterans
Many U.S. Veterans find it hard to secure a job in healthcare when they’re ready to work in the civilian world. Even after showing dedication, strong work ethic, and leadership while serving our country, many military members can’t find jobs.
- 453,000 unemployed veterans in 2016
- Post-Sept. 11 veterans tend to be unemployed at higher rates than other veterans
Skills, Skills, Skills
The major reason healthcare employers are not hiring U.S. Veterans has to do with their skills.
Military Lingo: The skills acquired while in active duty may or may not match the job skills healthcare employers need. A barrier is created when military terminology is used on resumes or during interviews and the employer does not understand the accomplishments achieved.
Skills Mismatch: Veterans may not have received the full training and certification needed to apply for a healthcare job. Or there may be difficulty in properly explaining the valuable skills and time while serving. Opportunities such as affordable schooling and skills training may not be available or hard to find.
Healthcare Jobs are Growing
In 2016, nearly 1 in 4 jobs created were in the healthcare sector according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In the 1st quarter of 2017, health care added an average of 20,000 jobs per month. The demand for care is increasing each year which results in employment opportunities rising significantly due to gains in hospitals and other healthcare providers.
Sources
- Employment Situation of Veterans, Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Military.com
- HealthLeaders Media