Nursing is a highly respected career that seems to always be in demand. For people not working in health care, it can be puzzling why it’s relatively easier to find nursing jobs compared to openings in other fields. Nursing trends significantly influence workforce demands, and the coming decade will pose challenges with issues like mental health and an aging population, creating substantial demand in certain sectors. With over a million full-time nurses expected to join the workforce in the next ten years, how will they fit into the broader health landscape? Let’s delve into the main factors expected to shape nursing jobs in the next decade and how you can benefit if you’re considering a nursing career.
Mental Health Influence: Recently, mental health has become a key focus in health care, with around $280 billion spent on services by 2020. Yet, many still struggle to find access to proper care. As mental health awareness becomes more normalized, the demand for mental health nurses will rise to address these complex needs. This shift in focus is expected to transform the medical field, and nursing will need to adapt to meet these emerging challenges.
Aging Population: Medical advancements have increased longevity, affecting how health care is delivered to older Americans. From 2010 to 2020, the population aged 65 and over grew much faster than the rest of the population. This demographic shift means younger medical professionals will need to step up as there might be fewer available nurses compared to the growing elderly population.
Complex Needs and Chronic Conditions: Beyond mental health and aging, other significant health issues require nursing intervention. Nurses will face various health challenges, including those related to the opioid crisis, cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and obesity. These issues will demand a dedicated nursing workforce to provide comprehensive care.
High Demand for Nurses: Whether your interest lies in the areas discussed or in standard clinical practice, there will be a significant demand for nursing professionals as the baby boomers retire. The current health care system relies too heavily on social factors and isn’t yet robust enough for major changes. This gap presents an opportunity for new nurses to make a meaningful impact in the evolving medical landscape.
The U.S.’s health needs mirror those of other developed countries. From mental health to chronic conditions, health care systems must embrace changes in nursing to meet future demands. If you’re considering joining the healthcare field, now is a great time to pursue a nursing career.
