Anybody who works in the field of healthcare will readily tell you that it is a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. The challenges you face will depend on the sector you work in and the type of work that you do, but they will certainly be there and you will be expected to meet them head on every day you come to work. This is what drives so many healthcare professionals, though, and if it appeals to you, the field might be right for you. Maintaining a balance is essential to any professional’s general wellbeing, though, and volunteering is key.
Why is volunteering important for healthcare professionals? There are several reasons. In addition to the sense of balance in can facilitate, it can also provide a number of other benefits. If you are wondering whether a career in healthcare is right for you, or how volunteering can help, these three criteria may provide some insight.
Develop New Skills
One of the biggest reasons volunteering is ideal for people who are either in the healthcare field of considering it as a career option is the opportunity to develop new skills in a supportive environment. There are many volunteer positions available in which you can work in a healthcare setting and apply the skills you already have or learn new ones altogether. You might branch out into new areas, for example, by volunteering at your local community health center and helping those in need. While doing so, you are also learning valuable new abilities that can provide long-term benefits.
Reduce Stress
Studies have shown that volunteering is uniquely beneficial for reducing stress among participants. The challenges of a career in healthcare can sometimes become stressful, and when this is the case, volunteering can provide the needed relief. Another way to minimize the stress associated with your job is to prepare for it thoroughly by choosing an online degree program that meets your needs. Click here to learn more about USC’s online MPH degree. A degree can give you the knowledge and training needed to approach your healthcare career confidently.
Boost Your Career
In addition to the confidence and knowledge a degree will impart to you, it can signify to potential employers that you possess the qualifications to succeed. Volunteering often has the same effect by showing employers that you are not only qualified but dedicated to helping your community and giving back. People often mistakenly assume that unpaid work should not go on their resume, but on the contrary, your volunteer work can be an asset to your pursuit of a career in healthcare. If you already work in the field, it can open new opportunities, too. Volunteering and working in healthcare go hand in hand. If you are considering either, you might also be considering an online degree in a healthcare-related discipline. Choosing a degree program that provides the training and knowledge you seek can be even more beneficial than volunteering, so consider all of your options for a career in this field.
Paul Petersen 
Daryl Green