Nurses aren’t usually too concerned about job security. If we had a dollar for every time we heard the phrase “You could get a job anywhere!” it might be enough money for our wages to actually keep up with inflation.
With the recent talk of a looming recession, current employees and candidates for non-traditional nursing roles may start to question their job security. Even those in bedside nursing positions may feel the stress of a potential economic downturn, passed onto them from healthcare administrators, family, or friends.
You likely have the question ‘are remote nursing jobs secure in our current economy?’ for one of two reasons:
1. You are looking for a remote nursing job
2. You are currently working a remote job, or just recently started a new remote position
You’re Looking for A Remote Nursing Job
Nurses that are in the market for a remote nursing position often think that these jobs are in such high demand that they’re nearly impossible to find and that they would be first in line for a layoff when employers are trying to cut costs. On the contrary, a 2021 study on the economics of healthcare during recessions found that healthcare employment seems to increase during times of economic uncertainty. Remote nursing is no exception.
Think about it: With bedside nursing in any economy, there are still patients to take care of. People still get sick, they still need surgeries, and they still see their doctors. Similarly, in non-traditional roles, there are still charts that need to be reviewed, patients that need case management, and insurance claims to process. Bedside care and remote nursing go hand in hand and their functions complement each other.
A Note On Business Restructuring
In times of economic volatility, companies are more amenable to restructuring or merging with other companies. Managed care companies are also now up for contract renewals. If a department loses a contract, it could be a sign there are impending layoffs within the company.
Remote work allows for greater possibilities with company acquisitions and corporate contracts. With less staff in-house, there is more opportunity for business negotiations without disrupting as many day-to-day operations. This can result in budgets or entire departments being cut. Business deals with remote companies function at the speed of light compared to traditional bedside corporations.
You Already Have A Remote Nursing Job
If you already have a remote nursing job, you probably have a decent pulse on how essential your job is, and the role you play in the healthcare system at large. Even if you’re unlikely to lose your job, it’s normal to have concerns about your workplace stability, especially when the news cycle is playing to the fears of the general public.
If you’re anxious about your job security, here are a few ways to tell you may be on unstable ground:
- Your workload isn’t keeping you busy
- Your performance is being more heavily scrutinized than before
- You are starting to receive poor performance reviews, even if your performance hasn’t changed, or you have not had poor performance recently
- You work at a startup or a small company that could be acquired or merged
- You are doing temp or agency work
- You hear rumors regarding restructuring, layoffs, or budget cuts
Feel concerned about one of the points above? It doesn’t necessarily mean you should worry. But, there are 3 things you can do to take control:
- Strengthen your online presence and continue networking. Take a look at the Nurse Fern LinkedIn Light Up Course to see how to get recruiters reaching out to you
- Search for other remote job postings. This might calm your nerves to see there’s a high demand for your current role, or you might decide to apply to a few (just in case)
- Learn a new skill. This can be online or within your company. This will increase your value on your current team, or with new potential employers
Final Thoughts
Despite the ebbs and flows in our economy, healthcare will always be an essential part of the job market. Positioning yourself as a valuable employee can help increase your confidence and may help you avoid a layoff. If you do experience job loss due to price cuts, it’s not your fault. Don’t give up on finding another employer that will recognize your value and provide you the stability to care for yourself and your family.
Check out the Nurse Fern Resources Page for more information. Whether you’re looking for your first remote job, nervous about accepting an offer, or trying to pivot to a different remote position – Nurse Fern has blogs, FAQs, and courses to help you with your career goals.