Healthcare myth busting: Working in the independent sector

As a leading specialist healthcare recruitment firm, we regularly speak to candidates who are considering leaving the public sector to work privately, this move can be filled with trepidation. A high majority of healthcare professionals who train in the UK will start their careers in the NHS.

When jobs become available in the private sector, some people fear they will be ‘abandoning’ the service, that they will lose job security, or that it will hinder their career. As is often the case, a lot of these narratives are based on misunderstandings of how the industry works, and others are just conjecture and rumour. Here are a few of the most common myths we hear about moving to the private sector, and the reality behind them.

Independent healthcare providers only treat rich people

First off, it is a myth that you must choose between treating NHS or private patients. Most independent healthcare providers share a vision to deliver great care to both NHS and private patients, service are often in part provided to NHS patients, so you are rarely going to have to give up caring for NHS patients entirely. Throughout the pandemic, independent healthcare providers played a vital role in easing the strain on the NHS and will continue playing a key role in the delivery of care in the UK.

There is no job security

Healthcare professionals in the independent sector enjoy job security, this sector is susceptible to market dynamics but so is the NHS. There is a stronger commercial focus vs the NHS, but this also brings investment and therefore career enhancing opportunities.

There are fewer opportunities to advance

Private healthcare providers in the UK offer structured career plans like the NHS. A good employer will support your career goals, independent healthcare providers are heavily invested in attracting top talent through offering development opportunities. What is more, many independent providers will employ world-renowned healthcare leaders in their speciality, which means you will have the opportunity to work with and learn from these experts. Facilities often invest heavily in state-of-the-art equipment and innovative medical advancements; this means exposure to the latest technologies and opportunities.

Working in the private sector is more stressful

Every hospital in the UK, both NHS and private, has strict benchmarked standards of care, and all jobs in the industry require high levels of dedication and resilience. That said, moving to the private sector can often do wonders for your work-life balance. All providers and hospitals will vary slightly, but in general the private sector has a lower patient to nurse ratio, less rigidity and better work-life balance. Many of the UK’s leading private hospitals offer significant flexibility around your contracted hours, and benefit packages often include generous leave allowances, travel expenses and sabbaticals.

Working in the independent healthcare sector is not for everyone, and the NHS still has many great benefits as an employer. But healthcare professionals looking to work in smaller, more intimate settings, or specialise in niche fields often find what they are looking for and some individuals split their time between the two.

If you work in healthcare and want to find out if Fertility Talent can help you find your dream job, call one of our expert consultants on 01904 239910 or send your CV to info@fertilitytalent.co.uk