Job Outlook for CNA

As unemployment rates in America remain high, students enrolled in CNA classes may find themselves concerned about t job opportunities.  While telemarketing and customer service positions are being “outsourced” to countries outside of the US, and  machines and computers have replaced even the local video store clerk, the number of healthcare jobs continues to increase.  The outlook for CNA’s is very optimistic!

Employment opportunities for CNA in Healthcare Sector

There are concrete reasons why employment opportunities in healthcare continue to grow.  One factor that contributes greatly to this trend is an increase in the average life expectancy for people in our country.  The eradication of multiple, deadly diseases, development of medicines and vaccines, advances in cancer treatment, and easy access to healthcare have improved the life span of the average American.  We are living longer and, as a result, we see an increase in the number of elderly patients requiring care in hospitals, doctor’s offices, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes.  Recent changes in insurance reimbursements have resulted in hospitals discharging patients who are not yet well.  Home health care enrollment continues to grow as patients of all ages seek help to finish healing at home.  Each of these factors has resulted in a growing population of people requiring caretakers and a steady increase in the number of jobs for CNAs.

Job security in carrer as a CAN

Secondly, healthcare clearly cannot be provided by a computer or machine. With advances in technology and industry, more and more tasks once performed by people can now be performed with fewer workers.  From baking cakes to calculating your taxes, managing inventories and dispensing sandwiches, technology has negatively impacted our workforce.  But machines cannot do what people can do.  Talking to patients, listening to their symptoms, and assessing their condition can only be done by you: the certified nursing assistant.  Machines cannot give a bath, assist a patient from bed to chair, or feed an infant.  Computers cannot sit and listen to a patient who needs to share their grief or despair.  No machine, no computer, no matter how sophisticated, can provide a compassionate touch, a caring smile or a kind word.  Only people can do that.

So rest assured that there are ample positions available for CNA’s looking for work.  And the Department of Labor predicts a steady growth in the number of healthcare jobs in the years to come.  CNA positions will be there waiting when you complete your coursework and are handed that well earned certification.

You may also like

Jakie S


1 Response

  1. Mindy says:

    Great post! I got laid off from my old position as a CNA after being with that organization for over 4 years. It took me a little less than two weeks to find a better paying job that is much closer to my home. Most people complain about the recession but I feel as though a career in health is somehow recession proof.

Leave a Reply
