The work of the Healthcare and Human Services Career Cluster promotes the health and resilience of individuals and communities through different services. Organizations in this cluster work together to meet the interconnected needs of physical, mental, and social well-being.
The purpose of the Healthcare industry is to help people live longer in better health by providing care. Healthcare services range from emergency treatments to wellness checkups, from newborn care to hospice at end of life. Services to improve quality of life also include treatment for mental health issues and addictions. Biotechnology services include the development of new medications, vaccines, and medical technology to extend and improve life.
Healthcare employers include hospitals and clinics, nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. Public health organizations provide education, research, and preventive efforts.
While the healthcare industry focuses on physical and mental health, the human services industry addresses social needs by helping people and communities gain self-sufficiency and stability.
Human services organizations include nonprofits, government agencies, community centers, and faith-based organizations. They provide services such as homelessness prevention, job training, recreational activities, and crisis intervention. They also administer programs that address basic human needs, like Medicaid, housing assistance, and child welfare services. Human services work also includes advocacy—for example, public awareness campaigns around human rights.
Quick facts:
- More than 23 million people are employed in the healthcare and human services industries.
- Telehealth services—like virtual care, patient portals, and wearable devices that measure heart rate or insulin levels—are growing more and more common. They expand access to care for many, but also raise patient data privacy concerns.
- Mental health care, behavioral health, and substance abuse services are expanding, as stigma around these issues is decreasing and more insurance companies cover the costs.
- Artificial Intelligence is now used to improve treatment plans by analyzing patient data and predicting risks and outcomes. It’s also used to schedule appointments, process claims, and manage medical records.
Funding for government healthcare and social services programs depends on decisions made by elected officials, which can lead to employment in those programs shrinking or growing.
Whatever your career direction, you can find options that fit. Keep exploring at CareerOneStop.org/ExploreCareers
