Nearly 6 in 10 healthcare workers plan to search for a new role within the next year, with Generation Z the most likely to eye the exit, according to the 2026 Healthcare Workforce Barometer.
Five things to know:
1. Seven in 10 Gen Z respondents said they plan to search for a new role within the next year, according to survey results published Sept. 16. Overall, 59% of the healthcare workforce is looking to leave.
The survey was conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Strategic Education Inc. and its subsidiary Workforce Edge, and included 1,514 U.S. healthcare workers and 304 healthcare employers. It was fielded between June 12 and July 1.
2. Despite the high turnover intent, Gen Z workers show signs of wanting to eventually settle down: 65% expect to stay with one employer for five or more years, and 95% value job stability and long-term security.
3. Gen Z workers place a higher premium on career advancement than their older colleagues. Eighty-nine percent said clear opportunities for advancement are important to them, compared to 77% of workers from older generations. Eighty-six percent think education or learning new skills will help them move up.
4. Trust is a sticking point: Only 26% of employees have a great deal of trust that their employer will support their long-term career growth, while 47% of employers point to a lack of advancement, professional development or education opportunities as the top reason employees leave.
5. Seventy-five percent of healthcare workers are interested in continuing their education through degree programs, certifications or skills-based learning, and 81% would be interested in an employer-sponsored education benefits program. Among employers who already offer workforce education programs, 89% say the programs improve retention and career mobility — but less than half (48%) have a comprehensive program in place.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.
