September 05, 2025
New Study Reveals What Each Generation Wants From Healthcare Careers
While demand for services continues to climb, organisations are struggling to attract and retain the talent needed to deliver care. WellSky has released the results of a new national workforce study to highlight how different generations view careers in healthcare and what organisations can do to better recruit, support, and retain talent.
“Healthcare career decisions are being made every day, whether it’s an experienced nurse debating between staying or leaving the field or a new graduate choosing where to begin the job hunt,” said Bill Miller, chairman and CEO of WellSky. “As competition for staff intensifies, it’s essential for leaders to understand and respond to the unique expectations and challenges each generation brings to healthcare. This isn’t just a report—it’s a roadmap for building resilient teams and crafting recruitment and retention strategies that bridge generations.”
The research uncovers stark generational differences in career perceptions. While older Millennials (ages 37–45) overwhelmingly view healthcare careers favorably, with 85% expressing optimism compared to other fields, enthusiasm drops among younger cohorts. Just 76% of Gen Z respondents said they feel positive about pursuing healthcare careers, signalling a clear need for employers to emphasise the fulfilment, purpose, and long-term opportunities available in the profession.
Career Growth Opportunities
More than one in three younger Millennials (36%) say that a clearly defined career path ranks among their top three considerations when applying for or accepting a healthcare job, a higher proportion than among older Millennials (28%), Gen Z (25%), or Gen X (24%). Overall, nearly half of respondents (47%) said structured training programs leading to advancement, certifications, or promotions would strongly influence their decision to stay longer in their current role.
Workplace culture also emerged as a critical factor in both recruitment and retention. 47% of workers said a positive and supportive culture is one of the most important elements in choosing a job. The study also found generational nuances in how employees want to engage with their organisations.
While nearly all Gen X (94%) and Millennial (93%) respondents emphasised the importance of structured ways to share ideas or raise concerns, fewer Gen Z workers (85%) agreed, suggesting younger employees may expect more informal or flexible communication channels. Across all generations, however, there was agreement on the importance of having the right tools and technologies in place to help employees succeed and feel supported.
The healthcare industry continues to grapple with significant workforce challenges, from attracting new caregivers to retaining those facing burnout and heavy workloads. The findings from this study offer valuable guidance for leaders: tailoring career pathways, investing in training, fostering supportive cultures, and ensuring technology is aligned with staff needs are essential steps to building a sustainable, multi-generational workforce.
