How Can You Re-enter the Healthcare Field After Taking Time Off as a Mom?
Juggling motherhood and a healthcare career can be challenging. Many talented nurses, physicians, and other clinicians take a break from their careers to focus on raising their children. But what happens when the kids are in school and you’re ready to rejoin the workforce? Getting back into healthcare after taking time as a mom is very possible with some strategic planning.
In this article, we’ll explore options for getting updated on the latest practices, refreshing essential skills, and regaining necessary certifications. We’ll also discuss finding positions that allow for a good work-life balance.
Discover Your Goals and Priorities
Take time to reflect on what really matters to you now. Make a list of needs, desires, and deal breakers to help narrow your search. Consider what type of role, company culture, schedule, and career trajectory would be the best fit.
Ask yourself insightful questions: Do you want full-time or part-time work? Are you looking to advance or take on more low-stress responsibilities? What financial objectives are important? What skills and experiences are most relevant now? Could you see starting your own business or joining an established one?
Getting clear on your priorities helps target the opportunities that make the most sense. You may be interested in corporate advancement or want flexibility to balance work and family duties. Consider evaluating non-traditional options like consulting, freelancing, or contract work if having a flexible schedule is a high priority.
Use career assessments to rediscover your interests and talents. This self-reflection prepares you to connect with healthcare roles that align with who you are today. With clarity around your goals and needs, the search process becomes more focused and fruitful.
Research On Demand Fields in Healthcare
Certain areas within healthcare present strong potential for employment growth and job security. Evaluating fields with ongoing projected needs allows you to target careers with longevity.
According to the University of Findlay, the role of the pharmacist remains in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the profession to grow three percent annually through 2032. This rate is average for all occupations but means approximately 13,400 new pharmacist jobs each year.
Opportunities abound for community and hospital-based pharmacists nationwide. With a pharmacy within five miles of most Americans, the convenient access fuels thriving job prospects coast to coast. Pharmacists play an integral healthcare role sure to remain critical for patients.
Family nurse practitioners and occupational therapists also show increases in needed positions. As healthcare adapts to changing consumer demands, these roles help expand access points and specialized care. Their diverse settings provide stable career paths for years to come.
By researching projected growth industries like pharmacy, you can leverage coming demand into new opportunities.
Refreshing Your Skills Before Reentering Healthcare
Consider the many ways you can sharpen your skills as you prepare for your return to healthcare. Investing in ongoing learning keeps your knowledge current and makes you a stronger candidate.
Sign up for relevant classes and certification programs online or in person. Community colleges and professional associations often offer affordable options. College alumni services and career centers can also provide valuable workshops and networking connections. Look into certifications required in your state or region.
For instance, if you are based in North Carolina and aspire to become a pharmacist, the prospects are promising.
According to WNCT- TV 9, the demand for pharmacy technicians in North Carolina is expected to grow substantially. From 2020 to 2030, the state anticipates adding 1,360 pharmacy technician jobs, marking a 10.3% growth rate.
This trend highlights the expanding healthcare needs of North Carolina’s population and the increasing opportunities for pharmacists in the state. You can explore an accredited pharmacy school available online in North Carolina, allowing you to complete your education without the need to attend a university in person.
Read books and journals in your field to stay informed about new developments. Many companies host seminars for professionals returning to the workforce after time away—take part to broaden your network. Volunteering your skills gives purpose while helping to plug experience gaps in your resume. Consultant work allows flexible hours while keeping you active in your industry.
Your career future is worth ongoing dedication to learning. Tapping educational resources is a rewarding way to grow your expertise from wherever you are in your journey back to healthcare. With refreshed qualifications and skills, you’ll feel confident as new opportunities arise.
Connecting with Others for Childcare Support
According to Forbes, for many parents seeking to rejoin the healthcare field after an absence, finding reliable childcare is a crucial first step. Stay-at-home caregivers acquire valuable skills that translate well when looking to resume a career.
Community connections through social media or referral networks can potentially provide quality childcare leads. Personal referrals from trusted sources may help identify reputable providers.
With children taken care of, previous healthcare professionals have the freedom to rediscover career opportunities and reapply skills through professional development or additional training. Connecting with others can help overcome one of the biggest obstacles to returning to work after dedicating time to family.
Overcoming Feelings of Guilt
For many who have taken time away from their careers to care for children, returning to work can understandably stir feelings of guilt. The primary motivation for that role was providing nurturing support to loved ones. However, it is important not to let guilt prevent important career steps.
Open communication with family can help ease this transition. Discussing plans respectfully allows an opportunity to gain their perspective and understanding.
Creatively exploring how all parties may still benefit can help receive their blessing and support. Whether through additional resources, quality time together on weekends, or other compromises, these conversations help ensure children feel cared for as new routines are established.
FAQs
1. What steps can I take to transition into a new career after having a baby?
A: Consider reaching out to individuals already working in your desired field or consulting with a certified career coach. It may also be helpful to seek additional support from your family or explore childcare options. Embracing assistance can provide insights into various career paths and the necessary steps to realize your career change.
2. How can I address a gap in my resume due to being a stay-at-home mom?
A: Showcase any other experiences during your time away from the workforce. These experiences include volunteer work, involvement in community initiatives, engagement in local politics, or developing specific skills through hobbies.
3. Why is it challenging to re-enter the workforce after maternity leave?
A: The combination of hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and feelings of being overwhelmed can contribute to the difficulty of returning to work. Acknowledging your emotions and seeking support to manage them are essential steps in the transition process. It’s common for new mothers to experience various emotions, and finding ways to alleviate them can be beneficial.
Getting back into your healthcare career after taking time to raise your family is certainly achievable. With the right strategic planning and steps towards refreshing your skills and knowledge, you can rejoin this rewarding field.
Don’t forget to lean on the strong support networks you’ve developed through community connections, trusted referrals, or simply open communication with your loved ones. With their understanding and some creativity in balancing responsibilities, you can overcome potential obstacles.
