The healthcare industry is continuously evolving and with it, hiring needs must adjust as well. Three areas we’re watching closely are revenue cycle management, behavioral health, and Medicare/Medicaid as they pertain to addiction treatment in 2020. While not immediately evident, these areas directly impact job market needs. Let’s take a closer look at these trends for 2020 and how healthcare practices can best prepare for changes to come.
Revenue Cycle Management
Hospitals saw an increase in revenue by year-end 2019, and that’s a trend that’s predicted to continue. With stiff competition for jobs in this area, healthcare systems are looking for qualified candidates with a particular skill set. While the traditional STEM background isn’t vital to revenue related jobs, healthcare employers do have specific criteria. The ability to handle revenue functions and calculations in an organized manner, paired with the willingness to learn, are key. On top of that, they also need degrees in a related field such as healthcare management or administration.
Behavioral Health
The need for qualified professionals in the behavioral health space has never been higher. According to HealthScape, “Nearly one in five American adults lives with a behavioral health condition and nearly half of those with a mental illness have two or more disorders.” This paired with a shift in how mental illness is perceived, thanks largely to millennials who are helping to destigmatize mental health conditions, presents a need for comprehensive treatments and skilled providers.
Like revenue cycle management, this is a highly competitive market that requires trained professionals who have a real desire to improve people’s lives and overall well-being. Some of the highest areas of growth include Psychiatry, Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, Psychologists, Social Workers, and Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors.
Medicare and Medicaid To Cover Addiction Treatment in 2020
Another development in the healthcare space came January 1, 2020, when The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services started coverage of opioid treatment programs. These services will include medication, counseling, drug testing, individual and group therapy. Since passing the bill, commercial carriers are starting to follow suit. This is a win for combating the opioid crisis which continues to wreak havoc nationwide. As more people are now able to afford treatment, there is an ever-increased need for healthcare professionals in this area of healthcare.
Behavioral health and the fields that fall under its umbrella will continue to change and grow as needs arise and laws evolve. If you are a healthcare provider challenged with finding the top talent to close the gap between needs and skills, Blue Signal is a strong resource to consider. With tenured recruiters who specialize specifically in this space, we have the experience and relationships to find the best talent for your growing healthcare hiring needs.
