At a time when an estimated additional 1-2 million Americans will be insured and eligible for health care coverage in the next two to four years, it’s a scary thought that fewer students are considering careers in health care because of a lack of exposure to math and science courses in their secondary education.
Students Not Being Exposed to Health Career Paths
Fewer high school students are taking prep courses such as algebra, calculus, chemistry, biology and physics. These subjects are part of the curriculum needed for the basis of a career in health care. Without the exposure to these courses, students aren’t being directed towards many of the high tech careers in health care which will have the highest demand for employees in the coming decades.
There is already an existing shortage of physicians and nurses. This lack of interest in math and science presents more real challenges for future generations as well as the current growing and aging population. It is already estimated for instance, that the shortage of nurses will reach critical levels by 2016. This is based on current nursing school enrollment numbers, but if those numbers decrease, the shortage will compound even faster.
Nursing Shortage Stalled Temporarily
The downturn in the economy may have temporarily stalled the nursing shortage in the U.S. This happened as hospital censuses declined and the demand for nurses dropped. With financial issues looming, many older nurses put off retirement or returned to work. By 2012, it is now estimated that one quarter of RNs will be 50 years of age or older.
In 2006, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated there would be a shortage of over 200,000 physicians by 2012. These statistics don’t even take into consideration the health care reform legislation of 2010 and the fact that even more Americans will have access to health care coverage by this time.
Recession Takes Toll on Education
The recession has taken a toll on education as well. The basics in education are barely being met in many areas of the country, much less advanced math and sciences. As students return to school this fall, they should be exploring their options and looking to careers that will be in demand in the future. Many of these will be in the health care field and almost all of them will require a basic foundation in math and science.
For students who may feel intimidated or struggle with these subjects, spreading out the subjects over their four years in secondary school may help them to slowly study and master the subjects and move forward with degree options in college.
Bilingual Education Needed
A foreign language is another course of study which will help students have an advantage in their career choices. Bi-lingual health care workers are already in high demand especially in demographic areas where English is not the primary first language . Speaking another language fluently helps all health care professionals meet the demands and provide quality care to their patients.
As the population ages and grows, the demand for more and better health care will continue to expand far into the future. In addition to creating needs and opportunities for students wishing to pursue careers in the health care field, this also creates a demand for more and better teachers with expertise in math and science fields.
Resources:
Kathy Quan - Kathy Quan RN BSN has been a home health/hospice nurse for over 30 years. She has authored five books and writes for several online ...
