6 things Gen Z workers want from healthcare employers

1. An emphasis on career growth and development

Gen Z healthcare workers want to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities. As a result, they only want to work for organizations where growth and development are a priority, Philipson writes.

To meet this need, healthcare organizations can offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement pathways, and can support continuing education for staff by paying for certifications and continuing education units.

Doing so can improve the quality of care that patients receive while creating a more engaged and motivated workforce, Philipson writes.

2. Technology-driven facilities

Gen Z workers are comfortable with technology and expect their employers to use the latest technology to improve patient care and to make their jobs more automated. This gives them more time to focus on their patients and responsibilities, Philipson writes.

To do this, healthcare organizations should invest in electronic health records, telehealth, and other digital solutions. They can also provide training for workers to learn how to use these technologies and make sure they're incorporated into daily workflows.

3. An organization focused on diversity and inclusion

Gen Z workers want to work for employers who "embrace diversity and create a welcoming environment for all employees," Philipson writes.

To address this need, healthcare employers can promote diversity in both hiring and promoting practices, provide cultural competency training, and create employee resource groups.

Employers can also partner with local organizations to support underrepresented communities, like providing health screenings at community events or sponsoring health education programs.

4. Work-life balance

While Gen Z workers are highly motivated, they also emphasize the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, Philipson writes. As a result, healthcare employers should offer benefits like flexible scheduling, remote work, employee assistance programs, and more paid time off.

If Gen Z employees feel they've achieved a good work-life balance, they're more likely to stick with one organization for a longer period of time, Philipson writes.

5. Mental health support

"Mental health support is a growing concern for healthcare workers, and Gen Z workers are no exception," Philipson writes. Gen Z workers want to work for employers who prioritize mental health and provide mental wellness resources.

To do this, employers should provide regular mental health check-ins with staff and provide a safe space for employees to voice any concerns. Employers can also provide peer support groups and mental health awareness training to promote a supportive and understanding culture.

6. A socially responsible organization

Gen Z workers are socially conscious and want to work at organizations that prioritize social responsibility and make a positive impact on the community and environment, Philipson writes.

Healthcare employers should commit to engaging in community outreach programs, implementing environmentally friendly practices, and supporting social justice causes while also implementing green practices, like reducing waste and energy consumption.

"Healthcare facilities geared toward the next generation of healthcare workers won't only build happier, more engaged teams," Philipson writes, "but they're creating environments that will also lead to better patient care and outcomes." (Philipson, MedCity News, 6/28)

Use this tool to discover seven evolving employee expectations in healthcare, identify baseline behaviors to meet minimum expectations, and build an engagement strategy that attracts and retains staff.