• Health Tech

Gen Z and the Future of Healthcare: Insights and Takeaways

February 13, 2023

Summary:

• Interest in public health careers surged after the pandemic while enrollment in most nursing programs declined.
• Gen Z is unapologetic in asking for a living wage, with recent graduates overestimating starting salaries by $50,000.
• 42% of Gen Z workers are dealing with mental health conditions and don’t tell their managers.

According to a survey from the University of Maryland Baltimore, Generation Z is poised to transform the healthcare workforce as we know it, with 38% planning to pursue a career in the field by 2030.

These individuals, born after 1997, were raised in a wholly digital age, making them more likely to seek in-person interactions and meaningful work contributing to the greater good. Despite this, 56% of Gen Z believe a skills-based education may be superior to a traditional four-year degree. This leads to increased health professional programs and healthcare-related bachelor’s degree conferrals.

While interest in public health careers surged after the pandemic, enrollment in most nursing programs declined. Generation Z nurses already in the field are showing signs of struggle, with 69% of nurses under 25 experiencing burnout, so it’s crucial to prioritize mental health and wellness, as 42% of Gen Z healthcare workers are dealing with mental health conditions. Employers must also accept a range of identities and experiences, with 76% of Gen Z’ers looking to work somewhere that values diversity and inclusivity.

Despite a desire to do meaningful work, Gen Z is unapologetic in asking for a living wage, with recent graduates overestimating starting salaries by $50,000. As Gen Z composes 30% of the workforce by 2030, understanding their unique needs and values will be critical to a successful healthcare organization.