Although the healthcare industry still is adding jobs, the pace is slowing down, according to the latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In November, hospital employment rose by 8,700 positions, compared to an average of 27,000 healthcare jobs per month over the past 12 months, according to a press release Friday. Hospital jobs stand at 4,791,200 in November, compared to 4,782,500 in the previous month (seasonally adjusted).
Overall the industry added 17,200 more healthcare jobs in November at 14,217,500, compared to 14,200,300 in October (seasonally adjusted).
Those numbers could increase with last month's announcement from the Obama administration to expand healthcare jobs in America. The administration pledged up to $1 billion in grants to hire and train healthcare workers, particularly for those who work with patients enrolled in Medicare and Medicaid programs.
Unemployment across all industries fell nearly half a percent to 8.6 percent, with jobs increasing by 120,000 positions. The uptick in employment is attributed to healthcare, as well as retail trade, leisure and hospitality, and professional and business services.
To learn more:
- read the press release
- see the data
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