According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Employment of healthcare occupations is projected to grow 18 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about 2.4 million new jobs. Healthcare occupations are projected to add more jobs than any of the other occupational groups.” This is incredible news for those currently in and those seeking to get into the Healthcare Industry. The Mogul Millennial interviewed three millennial healthcare practitioners to highlight their experiences, share obstacles and give advice for those looking to break into or advance in the healthcare industry. This information would also benefit high school and college students that desire to be in this particular industry. These three outstanding individuals, who chose a career path of service, have created blueprints for themselves and for others to follow. Creating a legacy is only the beginning for them. Read their interviews below for insight, clarity and inspiration.
Name: Dr. Brandon Blue, MD
Occupation: Oncologist (Cancer Doctor)
Degrees: Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Medical Degree (M.D.)
Job Description: The main goal on my job is to identify and cure cancer! If I can’t cure it, I try my hardest to slow it down or stop it from growing!
Obstacles faced in the industry: The main hurdle I face daily is balancing my work and family life. Telling people every day that they have cancer can be very demanding emotionally and spiritually, so trying to not bring that energy home to my wife and kids is an area I am learning to improve upon. My kids are still very young and full of energy and innocence, balancing being the supportive father that’s fun and enthusiastic sometimes becomes a struggle. Another obstacle is learning to overcome imposter syndrome. I honestly did not know what imposter syndrome was until recently, and ever since I have identified the problem and been working on building confidence and valuing my self-worth.
Career advice to those interested in the field: My medical school friend and I developed what we believe are the 4 most important areas for students interested in medicine. We have coined the term F.A.M.E. F is for frequent review because you need to stay sharp. A is for attention to detail because it can save someone’s life. M is for more reading because you literally can NOT read enough! E is for extra effort because this is what separates the good from the great. Having even a little extra effort goes a long way.
What you love about what you do: Being a doctor, you must love people, and I LOVE the relationships I develop with my patients and families. Also, I love that the medical field is changing so rapidly. Literally every month there is a new drug or medical breakthrough that is available to help save a life. It’s an exciting time to be a doctor, especially a cancer doctor.
What is the next potential career move: I recently relocated to Tampa, FL to a world-renowned cancer institute, Moffitt Cancer Center. Here at Moffitt I will work with patients whom cancer requires bone marrow transplants as treatments. Also I will work with cutting edge technology called CAR-T Cell Therapy, which uses the immune system to help kill the cancer! I am excited for the opportunity to be a part of this new field of medicine!
Name: Dr. Elysia H. Reynolds DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Occupation: CEO/Healthcare Provider for Advantageous Healthcare Association LLC
Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Biology (BS), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)/Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Job Description: Manage the overall operations and resources of the company while setting the company’s culture, values, and behavior. Assess, diagnose, and treat patients presenting with acute pain, illnesses, and those desiring to take control of their health.
Obstacles faced in the industry: Being black and being a woman. When these two are combined, it is hard for some people to see me as a separate entity. Instead, they continue to view me as a part of their company’s model. Therefore, they desire for me to work “for them” verses “with them.” As an entrepreneur, this is counterproductive.
Career advice to those interested in the field: Make sure that you are passionate about nursing because even as a nurse practitioner, you are always a nurse FIRST! Find a mentor that can help to provide some insight and help you to establish a solid, fulfilling career path.
What you love about what you do: What I love most about what I do is something that I learned from my oldest sister; “I live my purpose on purpose, daily!” Although entrepreneurship is far from easy, I love knowing that I am making a difference in at least one person’s life per day.
What is the next potential career move: Expanding! I currently have five locations throughout the surrounding cities of Atlanta, GA. However, if God and my finances are willing, I would love to expand to my home state of Tennessee. I also have a strong desire for public speaking. Hopefully, I will receive some opportunities soon. There are some other ideas surfacing as well. Once they become more concrete, I would love to share!
Name: Anthony C. Jones
Occupation: Lead Client Service Manager
Degrees: Masters in Business Administration & Masters of Science in Management Healthcare Administration
Job Description: Provided leadership and mentorship to scheduling and support teams, executed routine trainings and ensured observance of client and healthcare regulations and codes. Supported the Executive Leadership team in achieving departmental and organizational goals. Also identified opportunities for process improvements for both the client and internal processes.
Obstacles faced in the industry: Trying to find a work/life balance. Unable to help people when you see a need.
Career advice to those interested in the field: When working in the healthcare industry you need to have a lot of compassion. Do not take things personally because you’re working with patients who are ill and that can take a toll on them more than just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. Always try and put yourself in their position before passing judgment, getting frustrated and more.
What you love about what you do: I love to help people in any capacity, especially in healthcare where tons of people need guidance and compassion.
What is the next potential career move: My next move is becoming a hospital or a nursing home administrator.