South Texas Health System hosts career conference with RGV Lead

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — South Texas Health System and RGV Lead partnered to host the Discovering Healthcare Trends & Careers Conference.

The conference was held on Friday to prepare for the growing demand for healthcare professionals across the region.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment in healthcare occupations is expected to grow at a faster rate than the average for all occupations through 2034.

The nation's aging population and increased life expectancy, coupled with rising rates of chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, are contributing to significant employment growth in the U.S.

"Older adults and those living with chronic conditions require more frequent and complex care," says Lance Ames, Chief Executive Officer, South Texas Health System Edinburg & STHS Children's.

The conference showcased career opportunities in healthcare, including roles such as respiratory therapists, speech pathologists, and health information technologists.

"That demographic shift is creating higher demands on healthcare systems, which necessitates a greater number of healthcare professionals to manage the increased burden of chronic illness and age-related functional decline," Ames continued.