Reasons to Consider a Career in Health Administration

Whether you are just starting your journey in the world of work or you are looking for a career change, health administration is a thriving sector that shows no signs of slowing down.

Due to the increase in demand for hospitals, clinics, and treatment centers, not only in the United States but also worldwide, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in health administration.

From higher salaries to more promotions, enhanced job security to a diverse and challenging career, there are numerous reasons as to why you should consider studying for a Executive Master of Health Administration in 2022.

Let’s find out more!

1.    High demand

The demand for health administration jobs such as healthcare administrators and health services managers is projected to grow 32% between 2020 and 2030, significantly faster than the average for all occupations.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are two main reasons for this:

• The baby-boom generation are aging which has resulted in an increased need for healthcare.
• Health administration staff are needed to streamline processes and improve conditions so that medical staff can meet this higher demand.

Furthermore, about 51,800 openings for medical and health services managers are projected each year, on average, over the coming decade. Many of these new openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who move into other occupations or exit the labor force, like taking retirement.

2.    Salary growth

If you are searching for a career that provides a high salary that will increase over time, then the field of health administration is a good choice.

Due to the increase in demand for highly qualified and experienced health administrators, salaries have risen, with the average salary for a Medical and Health Services Manager now being $104,280 per annum.

Plus, if you pursue an advanced degree such as an Executive Master of Health Administration, you can be expecting to earn an even higher salary.

3.    Multiple opportunities

Health administration is a diverse and exciting field, and although hospitals employ around 30% of all healthcare administrators, there are many other places that you can choose to work, including:

• Clinics
• Group practices
• Outpatient facilities
• Nursing and care homes for the elderly
• Rehabilitation centers
• Mental healthcare facilities

Alternatively, you could choose to follow a career in healthcare supplies, health insurance, healthcare marketing, health maintenance, healthcare policies, and so many more thriving areas of the healthcare industry.

Whether you work best in a hectic environment or you prefer a slower pace where you can focus on one-on-one patient care, there is something for everyone.

4.    Job security

While job security is a distant memory for some industries, health administration is not one of these. In fact, the healthcare industry has arguably the highest level of job security there is.

People are always going to require healthcare, and with the aging population and an increase in health insurance coverage, the demand for health administrators is only expected to grow over the next decade and beyond.

5.    Chance to make a difference

Although often behind the scenes, healthcare administrators are just as important for a healthcare facility as physicians and nurses. They are accountable for creating and maintaining the conditions that these key medical staff members operate within and are vital to the overall running of a facility and to the level of patient care.

Furthermore, if you choose to pursue a Master of Health Administration (MHA) or Executive Master of Health Administration (EMHA), you will have the knowledge to affect real change in the industry.

6.    Potential for growth

If you are new to the healthcare industry, you may be interested to know about career development within the field of health administration.

Fortunately, you will be pleased to hear that there are many opportunities for professional growth within this sector.

Although you will need qualifications to obtain an entry-level health administration role, once you have your foot in the door, the sky is the limit.

Healthcare facilities are increasingly looking for candidates with soft skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and team leadership, so if you can demonstrate these, then you increase your worth as an employee.

7.    Job satisfaction

When it comes to happiness at work, the healthcare industry consistently ranks highly, with employees describing their work as “meaningful” and “contributing to society”.

In fact, according to PayScale, those pursuing a career in healthcare management rate their satisfaction levels as the maximum five stars. Employees also commented on the great benefits that come with the job, including dental, medical, and vision insurance.

How to pursue a career in health administration

The vast majority of health administration jobs require a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree. For higher-level jobs, you consider a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA).

In terms of experience, you do not need a background in healthcare to apply for an MHA, although it can be useful.

For professionals that already have many years of experience in the healthcare industry under their belts, an Executive Master of Health Administration degree is the optimal choice. Designed for those with 7+ years of experience, this advanced degree will give you an edge over your competitors and enable you to pursue some of the top leadership roles in the industry.

You might want to consider joining the American Association of Healthcare Administration Management (AAHAM), the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA), or the Association for Healthcare Administration Professionals (AHCAP), as these can help to enhance your qualifications and make your resume stand out from the crowd.

Also, do not forget the power of networking, especially within the healthcare industry. Ask friends and family if they know anyone who works in health administration. If you are studying for a degree, ask your tutors if they would be willing to mentor you and reach out to other students.

Finally, you may want to start attending industry-specific conferences and events, as these are a great place to meet people already working within the industry.