In recent years, the healthcare industry has undergone major reforms.  The many developments that have affected the industry are in large part due to the Affordable Care Act, and IT professionals have benefited in a tremendous way.  Among several other regulations that require compliance from healthcare entities, improvements to technology used in medical facilities have created a boost in available positions for IT professionals.  As a result, the demand is higher than ever before.

“We’ve definitely seen a steady increase in jobs from medical facilities looking for top IT professionals,” says John Carey, a Senior Technical Recruiter within The Execu|Search Group’s Information Technology division.  “This is especially true for Project Managers and Application Analysts, both of whom are highly requested across the board.”  John noted that specific skills that are often sought include experience with EMRs (Electronic Medical Records) and EHRs (Electronic Health Records).  “Specifically, a very common EMR system used is EPIC, and many facilities or support organizations are looking for IT professionals who can implement or upgrade this technology,” says John.

For IT professionals who may be interested in entering the booming healthcare market, there are several benefits in doing so, as John notes.  “The healthcare industry is vast in size, and it only continues to grow,” he says.  “If you have the skills to transition into the industry, this is a great path to pursue in the long run.”  Not only is it the fastest-growing area of opportunity for IT professionals, but it continues to open up new doors for consultants.  As a consultant working in healthcare, you could have the opportunity to work for some of the best medical facilities in the country.

“Our candidates who have made the move to the healthcare industry are really enjoying it,” says John.  “They’ve embraced the industry because they get to do incredibly important and valuable work.”  Not only are IT professionals working alongside some of the best and brightest minds in leading facilities, but they get to see how their work changes lives for the better.  “When you update software or calibrate a machine, you’re directly affecting the health and well-being of others, and you can see those results,” says John.  “It is a very powerful and rewarding experience to change lives in that way.”

For IT professionals who are interested in exploring this career path, John suggests a couple of different ways to get involved.  “If you’re looking to get your foot in the door, consulting is a great route,” says John.  “By doing so, you can test the waters and evaluate whether this field or even a specific employer is right for you before making a longer-term commitment.  In some cases, a temporary role can even transition into a full-time position!”  If you feel you need some additional training before pursuing this path, there are always education opportunities to get yourself up to speed.  For example, a certification or degree in Medical Informatics will provide you with everything you need to pursue healthcare IT with confidence.

In the future, John sees continued growth in the healthcare field for IT professionals.  Because of the Affordable Care Act, systems like EMRs or EHRs will need constant upgrades, plus the ACA has opened up several more avenues in healthcare.  “In addition to positions opening up in medical facilities, healthcare startups are rocking the industry, and they are also in need of talented IT professionals,” says John.  “Technology will only continue making advances in this sector, and IT professionals will continue to be integral players in healthcare for a long time to come.”