The competition for technologists in the healthcare industry is intensifying. Studies predict a 13% increase in demand for medical technologists by 2026, driven by the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices generating vast amounts of data. From fitness watches and smart inhalers to connected insulin pens and advanced medical imaging technology, the need for technologists to interpret and manage this data is critical for enhancing patient care.
Given the growing demand, healthcare organizations must refine their hiring strategies to bridge the technical gap. Let's explore three key areas where healthcare organizations should focus their efforts to find skilled technologists.
1. Academic Institutions and Research Centers
Partnering with academic institutions and research centers can be a game-changer for hiring in healthcare tech. These collaborations provide access to a pool of highly skilled individuals at the forefront of technological advancements. Universities and research centers constantly push the envelope on innovation, allowing organizations to tap into cutting-edge research and identify talent before it enters the broader job market.
Building strong connections with academic institutions offers mutual benefits. Companies gain fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, while students get real-world experience that enhances their skill sets. Engaging with professors, attending academic conferences, or sponsoring projects are effective strategies. For instance, Google collaborates extensively with leading universities worldwide to stay innovative in AI development.
Consider funding scholarships or endowments focusing on areas critical to your organization’s needs, such as data science or bioinformatics, to nurture talent aligned with your strategic goals.
2. Conferences and networking events
Hiring technologists in healthcare through networking events and conferences can be a highly effective strategy. These events bring together industry leaders, innovators, and job seekers who are passionate about healthcare technology.
Networking events and conferences offer a unique opportunity to engage with potential candidates in a more informal and personal setting. You can attend presentations, workshops, and panel discussions to identify individuals who demonstrate expertise and enthusiasm for healthcare technology. Additionally, these events often include job fairs or dedicated networking sessions where employers and job seekers can interact directly, making it easier to determine cultural fit and professional alignment.
3. Recruitment agencies specializing in healthcare it
Partnering with a recruitment agency specializing in healthcare IT can improve the quality of candidates. Agencies have in-depth knowledge of the industry, understanding the skills and certifications required for healthcare technology roles.
Working with a specialized recruitment agency also saves time and resources. These agencies handle the initial stages of recruitment, such as screening resumes, conducting preliminary interviews, and verifying credentials, which can be particularly complex in the healthcare sector due to stringent regulatory requirements.
Moreover, specialized agencies often have established relationships with top talent in the healthcare IT field, giving you access to passive candidates who may not be actively looking for new opportunities but are open to the right offer. This network, combined with their industry insights, means that they can provide candidates who are not only technically skilled but also a good cultural fit for your organization
Final Thoughts
Hiring technologists in healthcare requires a blend of strategies to find the right talent. Partnering with academic institutions, attending networking events and conferences, and using specialized recruitment agencies are excellent starting points. Additionally, browsing healthcare job boards and online professional networks can also help. Overall, a diversified approach is key to find technologists ready to support your healthcare organization.
About the Author: Erika Rykun is a career and productivity copywriter who believes in the power of networking. In her free time, she enjoys reading books and playing with her cat, Cola.
