For a better perspective on how in demand healthcare professionals are, consider how few other industries are currently looking to high school students to help resolve a staffing shortfall that is projected to last for years.

One recent example comes from the State Journal-Register of Springfield, Illinois, which reports that the nearby Memorial Medical Center is involved in a partnership with local high schools called the Community Healthcare Career Academy. The program introduces students to a multi-week preview of a career in healthcare.

The hospital is also reportedly working with an area community college and the Chamber of Commerce to help expand opportunities, including financial aid, for prospective nursing students.

While the nursing shortage tends to get the most national exposure however, the healthcare industry also suffers from a lack of trained professionals in other categories. For example, those who pursue careers as medical assistants or physician assistants are also expected to find ample opportunity.

According to the Fredericksburg Freelance-Star, most young people who become healthcare professionals work in a variety of different medical areas as assistants and other support staff. The newspaper notes that young people interested in such careers can get started by joining the Health Occupations Students of America.