We live in an ever-changing and rapidly evolving society that continually causes the dial to shift on the skills needed to operate effectively in the workforce.
For healthcare in particular, the rapid growth in technology and AI, alongside ongoing medical research that identifies more effective ways of treating various ailments and diseases means that keeping your expertise up-to-date in this industry can be difficult.
Besides returning to study in the medical care realm or via a flexible online curriculum FNP program can be an excellent way to refresh or specialize in a particular field, but it is not always a possibility for everyone.
For those looking to keep their ability current by other means, here are seven other options to consider.
Address your Knowledge Gaps
Acknowledging the distance in your skillset is a prime first step towards remaining current in your field.
It is also vital to understand how you best learn and retain knowledge so you can fill these gaps in the most effective manner possible.
For example; if listening to a medical podcast goes in one ear and right out the other, it is ultimately a waste of your time.
Take a moment to consider what you need and how best you can achieve it before starting the practical process of upskilling.
Seek Out a Mentor
Seeking out a mentor or a buddy who works within your industry will provide you with the opportunity to gain valuable insight into the field.
You can ask questions without judgment and they may even be able to point you in the direction of other valuable resources.
A mentor can help you build knowledge and allow you to see things from another perspective.
A mentorship can be formal or informal – catching up just once a month for a meal or coffee can still be of great benefit to you and your career.
Connect with Others in the Same Industry
Networking has never been as simple as it has been since the introduction of online platforms including social media like Facebook, Twitter, and, most required, LinkedIn.
Using the LinkedIn search function you can look for people with similar careers, industry leaders in your field, or even people you consider to be role models to help build your network, and broaden your exposure to experts, and news, and generate key connections.
Get your social media fix for the day on simultaneously upskilling – a win-win situation!
Sign Up For Relevant Newsletters or Research
It would be impossible to keep up with the sheer number of medical papers and news being published every day.
Instead, subscribe to relevant journals that apply to your field of healthcare and provide daily summaries of the top information or research.
A good example is The ASCO Post which focuses on communicating bulletins around multidisciplinary cancer care, however, you should conduct your own research to find a similar resource that is valuable to you.
Create Dedicated Time for Learning
This one can be difficult to achieve, but scheduling dedicated time to stay at the forefront of your industry is foremost and can help you stay on track when working to keep your skillset current.
Setting aside even half an hour in the morning to review the latest field research, news or techniques can be an incredibly effective way to do this.
Utilize Workplace Resources
Most workplaces will provide employees with ongoing training and educational programs to maintain and enhance their skill base.
If these programs are not mandatory, make an effort to take part in them regardless as they can help you to bridge the skill gaps you need.
If they are non-existent, reach out to your workplace about what you think is needed for the betterment of all employees – they will want to hear it!
Did You Know?
In 2024, startups worldwide will invest hundreds of millions in the development of AI projects, including different kinds of robotic systems that will cut the cost of hiring qualified hospital staff.
Foster a Healthy Environment
Sharing knowledge, updates, and learnings with your co-workers can help foster a healthy environment where everyone can learn and grow professionally.
Set aside a weekly or fortnightly team meeting that encourages the sharing of information relating to treatment methods, new research, or anything else they feel is relevant.
You could also arrange to attend industry events as a team as both a learning and bonding experience.
Although it can be difficult to find the additional time to retain or update your skillset, doing so should never fall completely wayside.
In the healthcare firm staying up-to-date is more required than ever as changes occur more frequently and rapidly.
Failing to do so is to the detriment of not just yourself, but to the hospital or workplace you work for and, of course, for the patients themselves.
