What do you get when you combine a boom in health care needs with historically low unemployment in the middle of an economically growing region? It’s not a trick question. It’s the challenge Parkview Health is facing as northeast Indiana’s largest employer—and it’s a good problem to have.
With more and more patients choosing Parkview, the health system has grown to include more than 12,000 co-workers (and counting). Jeff Rice, Manager of Talent Acquisition and Student Services, says that while the need for new co-workers is constant, the types of roles needed can fluctuate.
As of March 2019, the most in-demand roles are:
- Nurses
- Surgical technologists
- Technology professionals
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Shane Mataraza is a Nurse Leader in the surgical ICU at Parkview Regional Medical Center.
Nurses
The demand for nurses isn’t unique to Parkview. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of registered nurses is projected to grow 15 percent from 2016 to 2026—much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth stems from a number of factors, including an increase in chronic conditions, like diabetes and obesity, and increased demand for healthcare services from the baby-boom generation.
Parkview’s greatest need is for hospital bedside nurses, which make up 20 percent of the system’s job postings. That doesn’t include other types of nursing positions, leadership roles, or positions within Parkview Physicians Group.
Rice notes that Parkview’s culture alone often serves to attract RNs looking for career opportunities.
“No matter how many patients we have, there’s always a focus on providing excellent care for every person, every day,” he says. “When people experience it, our culture sells itself.”
Surgical technologists
If you’re looking for a way to break into the healthcare industry, surgical technology might be a great place to start. “Surg techs,” as they’re often called, are required to have an associate degree or certification, which may not require as much time as a nursing degree. However, the position is still challenging and rewarding, explains Marcy Rogers, VP of Parkview’s surgical services.
“Surgical technologists are empowered to advocate for our patients and have autonomy to support patient care,” Rogers says. “Our surgical technologists are valued members of our team, and they have a keen understanding of excellence in sterile technique.”
Rogers also references Parkview’s culture as a reason qualified candidates choose to work with Parkview.
“Our culture provides for inclusivity, a positive work environment, support from leadership, and the ability to speak up if there are concerns,” she explains.
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Dawn Rosbrugh, a RN, works in the operating room at Parkview Regional Medical Center.
Technology
Because technology can be a broad category, David Winn, Vice President of Information Services and Support, describes the most in-demand roles within his area. Application analysts build, test, and maintain applications. Information security technology and provisioning/access analysts form the data and network security infrastructure. Desktop/help desk services staff provide daily, 24-hour service and support. And service line coordination specialists act as liaisons between information services and other parts of the organization.
“Parkview Health is very advanced in its use of technology,” Winn says. “With fast-growing markets in virtual health, business intelligence, and predictive analytics, along with advancements in artificial intelligence, a multitude of career opportunities exist.”
Winn emphasizes that technology job candidates often don’t need healthcare experience to work for Parkview.
“We have a strong interest in the recruitment of qualified and skilled talent from industries other than healthcare in order to infuse innovative concepts and ideas with classic healthcare best practices and techniques,” he says.
For more information about working at Parkview, visit the Careers page on their website.
Parkview to offer open interviews for RNs
For registered nurses, getting a job could be as easy as walking into the hospital. Starting in May, Parkview Hospital Randallia will host open interviews specifically for RN positions. Candidates will meet with a hiring leader and potentially leave with a contingent job offer.
Dates: Every Thursday, starting May 2
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: Parkview Hospital Randallia, 2200 Randallia Drive, Fort Wayne
For more information, email [email protected] or call 260-266-7263.