Finding a Healthcare Job in 2024 and Preparing for 2025: A Guide to Navigating an Evolving Industry

Fordham Institute Inc. • November 13, 2024

The healthcare field is experiencing rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements, an aging population, and an increased focus on mental and preventive health. As we move through 2024 and prepare for 2025, healthcare professionals—from nurses and aides to specialized practitioners—have many opportunities to build stable, rewarding careers. Here’s how you can find a healthcare job in 2024 and set yourself up for future success.


1. Focus on High-Demand Roles

The healthcare sector’s need for skilled workers is growing quickly, with certain roles particularly in demand. Positions for Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), Home Health Aides (HHAs), medical assistants, and registered nurses remain critical. Specialized areas, such as telehealth, mental health, geriatric care, and physical therapy, are also seeing increased demand. By pursuing roles that address these growing needs, you can improve your chances of job security and find more opportunities for advancement.


2. Leverage Networking and Healthcare Job Boards

Job boards are valuable resources for finding healthcare positions, especially those specifically for healthcare professionals, such as Health eCareers, HospitalCareers, and niche platforms like Aide Guide in New York. In addition to job boards, networking within the healthcare community—attending industry events, joining associations, and connecting with professionals on LinkedIn—can help you gain referrals and insights into hiring trends. Many healthcare roles are filled through internal recommendations, so building connections within the industry is essential.


3. Adapt to Digital Healthcare Trends

Telemedicine, electronic health records (EHRs), and remote patient monitoring are now central to healthcare delivery. Familiarity with telehealth platforms, data management, and digital patient engagement tools will be critical to employers in 2024 and beyond. Invest time in learning new technologies and digital tools, especially those relevant to your role. Some healthcare facilities offer training on these platforms, and online courses are available if you’re seeking to enhance your digital literacy independently.


4. Prioritize Certifications and Continuous Learning

Healthcare is a field that values ongoing education. Certifications in areas such as CPR, first aid, specialized care (like dementia care for HHAs), and infection control can increase your job prospects and make you stand out to employers. Look for certifications relevant to your area of interest or expertise. Staying updated on the latest medical practices through workshops, seminars, or online courses will not only make you a more competitive candidate but also show employers your commitment to professional growth.


5. Develop Key Soft Skills for Patient-Centered Care

As healthcare moves toward a more holistic and patient-centered approach, soft skills are increasingly valued. Empathy, communication, adaptability, and problem-solving are all essential when working with patients and families. Highlighting these qualities in your resume, cover letter, and interviews can make you a stronger candidate. Consider participating in soft skills training or workshops, or even volunteer work, where you can demonstrate these competencies.


6. Consider the Future of Remote and Hybrid Roles

Telehealth and remote monitoring have opened up opportunities for healthcare professionals to work in hybrid or fully remote roles. These roles are often more common for administrative, support, and telehealth positions but may expand further as technology improves. Staying open to hybrid positions could increase your job options and allow for more flexibility. Research how your field is adapting to remote work to identify areas where you might transition to a hybrid role in the future.


7. Prepare for Regulatory Changes and Compliance

Healthcare is heavily regulated, and understanding compliance requirements, such as HIPAA, OSHA, and patient rights, is essential. Regulatory changes are common, especially in areas like telemedicine, patient data protection, and healthcare accessibility. Staying informed on these regulations will not only make you a more informed candidate but also help you avoid compliance issues once employed. Many healthcare organizations offer updates on regulatory changes; subscribing to their newsletters or industry updates can be a useful resource.


The healthcare field is evolving rapidly, offering numerous opportunities for growth and development in 2024 and beyond. By focusing on in-demand roles, building connections, enhancing your tech skills, and investing in continuous learning, you’ll be well-prepared to secure a job in healthcare and build a fulfilling career. As we move toward 2025, adaptability and a commitment to learning will be key to staying relevant and successful in this ever-changing industry.

Essential Time Management Tips for Caregivers in Training

By Fordham Institute Inc. • September 10, 2025
Balancing school, life, and future career goals is no small task. For students training to become Home Health Aides (HHAs) or Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), time management can often feel like one of the hardest lessons to master. Between classes, homework, family responsibilities, and possibly even a job, the days can feel full before they even begin. At Fordham Institute Inc., we remind our students that the key isn’t finding more time—it’s learning how to manage the time you already have. Here are practical tips to help you stay on track during your training. 1. Create a Weekly Schedule Plan your week in advance by blocking out time for: Classes Study sessions Work shifts Personal and family responsibilities When everything is written down, it’s easier to see where your open time is—and use it wisely. 2. Break Big Tasks into Smaller Steps Instead of writing “Study for exam,” break it down into manageable parts: Review Chapter 3 notes Practice vocabulary terms Take a sample quiz Small steps are less overwhelming and help you stay motivated. 3. Use Pockets of Time Wisely Even 10–15 minutes can be productive: Review flashcards during your commute Listen to audio notes while cooking Read a short section of your textbook on lunch break Those small moments add up quickly. 4. Prioritize What Matters Most Some tasks will always feel urgent, but not all are equally important. Focus on the assignments, readings, or skills that bring you closer to completing your training and passing your exams. 5. Avoid Multitasking It may feel like you’re getting more done, but multitasking often leads to mistakes and stress. Give your full attention to one task at a time—you’ll finish faster and remember more. 6. Don’t Forget Rest Time management isn’t just about squeezing in more work. Proper sleep, short breaks, and self-care help you focus better and prevent burnout. A rested mind learns and remembers more efficiently. Time Well Spent Builds Success Managing your time well as a student doesn’t just help you finish your training—it prepares you for success in your future career as an HHA or CNA, where organization and focus are key. 📞 Ready to start training for your career in healthcare? Call 718-480-1804 Because mastering your time today is the first step toward mastering your future.

Staying Positive When Days Feel Long

By Fordham Institute Inc. • September 9, 2025
Caregiving is a career filled with meaning—but let’s be real, some days can feel endless. Whether you’re working a double shift, managing challenging tasks, or simply feeling worn out, it’s easy for the day to drag. For Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), finding ways to stay positive isn’t just about feeling good—it helps you provide better care and protect your own well-being. At Fordham Institute Inc., we remind our students that a positive outlook is a skill, not just a mood. Here are a few ways to keep your spirit up, even when the hours feel heavy. 1. Focus on Small Wins Instead of waiting for the day to end, celebrate the little victories: Helping a client smile Finishing a task on time Learning something new on the job Small wins build momentum and help the day feel more rewarding. 2. Use Gratitude as a Reset When stress builds, take a moment to remind yourself of one thing you’re grateful for—big or small. It could be a supportive coworker, a client’s kind words, or simply having steady work. Gratitude shifts your perspective and makes challenges easier to carry. 3. Lean on Uplifting Energy Positive energy is contagious. A smile, a calm tone, or an encouraging word not only helps your clients but also boosts your own mood. Surround yourself with uplifting coworkers or keep an inspiring playlist ready for breaks. 4. Break the Day into Manageable Pieces Instead of focusing on a 12-hour shift, divide your day into smaller sections. Think: “Just get through the morning tasks,” then “Focus on lunchtime,” and so on. This makes the day less overwhelming and keeps you motivated. 5. Practice Quick Mindset Shifts When the day feels heavy, try: Taking 3 deep breaths Repeating a short affirmation: “I’m strong, I’m capable, I can do this” Stepping outside for fresh air if possible These quick resets keep negativity from taking over. 6. Remember the Bigger Picture Caregiving isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. Every day, you’re making a difference in someone’s life. Keeping the bigger picture in mind helps long days feel meaningful rather than just exhausting. Positivity Is Power Long days are part of the caregiving journey, but your attitude is what carries you through. By focusing on the small wins, surrounding yourself with positivity, and remembering your purpose, you can keep your energy high and your spirit strong. 📞 Ready to take the first step toward a career in healthcare? Call 718-480-1804

How to Protect Your Back: Safe Movement Tips for HHAs and CNAs

By Fordham Institute Inc. • September 8, 2025
Caregiving is a hands-on career that requires strength, patience, and dedication. For Home Health Aides (HHAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), helping clients with mobility, lifting objects, and standing for long hours can take a toll on the body—especially the back. At Fordham Institute Inc., we believe that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your clients. Practicing safe movement techniques helps prevent injuries, reduce strain, and keep you strong for the important work you do every day. 1. Bend with Your Knees, Not Your Back When lifting, squat down by bending your knees and hips—never bend forward at the waist. Keep your back straight and your core engaged as you rise. Tip: Always keep the object or person close to your body to reduce strain. 2. Use Your Legs for Power Your leg muscles are much stronger than your back muscles. Let them do the heavy work. Push through your legs when standing, lifting, or moving patients, instead of relying on your back. 3. Avoid Twisting Twisting while carrying weight puts major stress on the spine. Instead, move your feet to turn your whole body in the direction you need to go. 4. Keep Your Posture in Check Slouching while sitting or standing can slowly add up to back pain. Stand tall with shoulders relaxed. Distribute your weight evenly between both feet. When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor and avoid hunching over. 5. Take Micro-Breaks Even short pauses help. Stretch your back, shoulders, and legs throughout your shift. A quick neck roll or standing hamstring stretch can ease tension and improve circulation. 6. Use Assistive Devices When Available If your workplace provides gait belts, slide sheets, or mechanical lifts, don’t hesitate to use them. They protect both you and your clients during transfers or repositioning. 7. Care for Your Body Outside of Work Strengthening your core, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest all contribute to better posture and fewer injuries. Simple exercises like walking or gentle yoga can support long-term back health. Protecting Yourself Means Protecting Your Career Your health is one of your greatest tools as a caregiver. By practicing safe movement every day, you’ll protect your back, extend your career, and give better care to your clients. 📞 Want to start your journey as an HHA or CNA? Call 718-480-1804 Because strong caregivers know: caring for your back is caring for your future.