Calvert County, Maryland Board of County Commissioners Proclaims October Healthcare Careers Month

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md., -- October 19, 2004 -- The Calvert County, Maryland Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has proclaimed October Healthcare Careers Month to raise community awareness about the continuing shortage of workers in the healthcare industry. In fact, the Maryland Higher Education Commission has forecast substantial gaps of 40 percent for 19 of the top 23 demand occupations in the field.

David Hale, BOCC president said, “The workforce shortage goes well beyond nursing – it also affects medical technologists, respiratory therapists, pharmacy technicians, radiographers and physical therapists. If we are to correct this deficiency, we have to start now by encouraging people to consider healthcare careers.”

A combination of retiring healthcare workers, young adults choosing non-health related occupations, and the aging population is placing an unusual stress on the medical system. By encouraging a wide variety of people to consider careers in healthcare, including homemakers, career changers and high school students, it is hoped that the workforce shortage can be alleviated in the near future.

The BOCC proclamation reads in part:

WHEREAS, the shortage of healthcare practitioners in the nation and in Calvert County is well documented; and

WHEREAS, healthcare services is a target industry for growth in Calvert County; and

WHEREAS, student interest in healthcare careers will be increased by a community-wide focus on health care issues that raises the level of consciousness and the image of the industry.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED by the Board of County Commissioners of Calvert County that the month of October be known as Healthcare Careers Month in Calvert County. Be it further proclaimed that students of all ages, educators and practitioners focus on the opportunities and benefits of a career in healthcare.

For more information on the Calvert County, Maryland Department of Economic Development, our visitor sites and attractions and the services available to assist County businesses, call 410.535.4583, 800.331.9771 or 301.855.1880; or send an e-mail to info@ecalvert.com