11.8 Professional Development

Continuing to develop in the job, preparing to move to a higher level position, or taking on a more complex role all require the professional to commit to a form of lifelong learning called professional development. As research provides new information about health, and technology evolves with new ways to do things more efficiently, professionals must stay up to date and competent. There are a few ways to do this.

1. Pursue continuing education such as online modules, webinars, and in person conferences, workshops, and so on.
2. Read professional journals. For example, for nurses one option is the American Journal of Nursing.
3. Networking with other professionals in similar roles in a professional association is another way. There are professional organizations for most healthcare specialties, for example the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), for the field of effective management of health data and medical records, or the Washington State Medical Assistant Association for continuing education and current trends in medical assisting.

Being open to feedback about performance and setting professional goals are also part of growth and improvement in the job. Being willing to examine work practices and change behaviors that do not contribute to success are part of professionalism, as is setting goals for your own professional development. These goals could include pursuing a certification, getting trained for a new process to be implemented, becoming a trainer for others, or even returning to school for further education. Perhaps you would like to contribute to a journal article in your chosen field, or participate in a research study.