More than 20 percent of Gen Z healthcare workers are likely to leave the industry

One in five Gen Z healthcare workers plans to leave the industry in the next few years, according to a new study.

Soliant Health's 2024 Healthcare Employment Trends Report reveals 22% of Gen Z healthcare workers plan to retire from the healthcare profession within 1-3 years, further increasing industry turnover It has been shown that it is possible.

Older generations working in the healthcare industry are significantly less likely to leave the industry, with just 5.4 percent of Millennials and even fewer Gen Xers saying the same at 2.5 percent. At 15.2%, the percentage of baby boomers who appear to be nearing retirement remains significantly lower than the number for Gen Z.

While some characterize Gen Z as lazy, which seems to fuel their desire to leave high-pressure industries, human resources consultant Brian Driscoll says this assumption is incorrect. said.

“Portraying Gen Z as toxic to the workplace is not only unfair, but overlooks the broader context of the evolving workplace,” Driscoll previously told Newsweek magazine. “Expectations of transparency, inclusivity, and purpose in their work are often misinterpreted as a lack of entitlement or credibility.”

“Rather than labeling these workers as problematic,” Driscoll said, “previous generations have faced challenges such as economic instability and a global pandemic that has changed notions of work-life balance and mental health. “It's important to recognize that they are overcoming a work environment that presents challenges that were not seen before.” There is. “

When asked why Gen Z wanted to retire, only 9% said work stress or burnout made them want to leave the healthcare industry. The main issue cited by 14 percent of Gen Z in the survey was an unhealthy work environment and culture.

“They're tired of a system that treats them like expendable items and not human beings,” Driscoll said. “Gen Z has grown up in a world where mental health is not taboo, boundaries are encouraged, and they have seen how unsustainable careers can ruin lives. They are afraid to put themselves first. No. Frankly, who can blame them?”

In contrast, Millennials, Gen

“The findings of this report highlight the urgent need for healthcare employers to address stressors affecting their employees,” Ron Washburn, vice president of Soliant Health, said in a statement. Ta. “As Gen Z enters the workforce, it is important to recognize the unique motivations and challenges they face. Employers must adapt to these changing values ​​and provide quality patient care. We need to develop a resilient workforce that can deliver.”

Driscoll said the healthcare industry could face a talent crisis if this trend continues.

“If this trend continues, the health care industry could face a talent crisis that will make the pandemic-induced workforce shortages look like a dry run,” Driscoll said. “But there is a silver lining here: this exodus can lead to systemic change, including improved working conditions, real investment in employee well-being, and more sustainable career paths. ”