Due to the widespread use of electronic medical billing, eprescribing and electronic medical record software, job seekers who are looking to apply and compete for positions in the medical industry in 2012 may need to tout their technical abilities. According to a MarketWatch article, while experts aren't expecting 2012 to be a big growth year in many job sectors, the healthcare industry is predicted to hire new professionals with the appropriate skill set.
Though these skills are especially beneficial for those in the medical industry, the report also indicated that technical experience would also be beneficial to those in the retail, manufacturing and professional services industries.
"A knowledge of electronic data handling is just a really big plus," Warren Bobrow, president of All About Performance, a California-based consultancy group, told MarketWatch. "That goes for receptionists to the doctors who are becoming employees of larger hospital systems."
Business skills are also among the other traits medical businesses and facilities will be looking for, according to the media outlet. In particular, the report noted how the medical industry is becoming more competitive as their work is largely due to referrals – patients telling other friends and family members about their experiences in a positive light.
Since a medical facility's revenue stream depends so heavily on referrals, doctors are likely to be on the lookout for individuals who could help them create a positive experience for patients and ultimately bring more clients back.
Medical facilities also need to note how their use of new technology can influence the business process. As a result, private practices and small facilities that have not undergone a switch to Allscripts MyWay medical billing software, or a similarly state-of-the-art service, may want to consider making the transition and hiring professionals and partners that can help the process run smoothly.
