Healthcare to Become the Largest Employment Sector of the U.S. Economy

January 19, 2016

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare jobs and industries are "expected to have the fastest employment growth and to add the most jobs between 2014 and 2024." The Employment Projections report, released last December, predicts that healthcare will become the largest employment sector of the U.S. economy, passing both government and the business/professional service sectors. By 2024, the report predicts that healthcare will have over five million openings to fill. Here's the breakdown of openings by healthcare roles:

  • 1,088,400 registered nurses
  • 1,040,400 health technologists and technicians
  • 311,200 therapists
  • 290,000 physicians and surgeons
  • 78,000 pharmacists
  • 75,000 nurse practitioners
  • 58,000 dentists
  • 50,000 physician assistants

The growth can be attributed to healthcare's rapid expansion, which is mainly a result of The Affordable Care Act. Between 2014-2024, employment in the healthcare industry is projected to grow at 21 percent. In comparison, the second-fastest growing sector, construction, will only grow at 13 percent. Top 5 Fastest Growing Industries in the Nation. In terms of percent growth in employment, the Top 5 fastest growing industries are:

  • Home healthcare services – 60%
  • Outpatient care centers – 49%
  • Offices of other health practitioners – 45%
  • Other ambulatory healthcare services – 40%
  • Medical and diagnostic laboratories – 32%

What It Means to You

You don't have to be a healthcare professional to take advantage of healthcare's rapid growth. Everyone can benefit from it - accountants, marketers, recruiters - there are all types of opportunities for professionals to get involved with the nation's most prolific sector. At Health Carousel, we're constantly looking for talent to add to a team that has grown right alongside healthcare. To learn more about Health Carousel and to see how you can benefit from healthcare's expansion, click the button below!

About Health Carousel

Health Carousel is committed to partnering with world-class healthcare facilities across the country, providing rewarding assignments for Registered Nurses and Allied Health Professionals, and attracting the best internal talent at all career levels.