There are approximately 20 million military veterans in the United States, among which 4.6 million are from the post-9/11 period of service. One study found that healthcare is the third most common industry in which male veterans work, and healthcare occupations are among the fastest growing opportunities for male veterans. Among Gulf War veterans, male and female veterans were more likely to work in healthcare occupations compared to male and female non-veterans. Healthcare may continue to provide good job opportunities for veterans given the expected demand for an additional three to four million workers with the expansion of healthcare under the Affordable Care Act. What remains puzzling is that young veterans face high unemployment rates, yet healthcare offers many entry level opportunities that may be ideal for young veterans as they enter the civilian workforce.

This report identifies the characteristics of veterans entering healthcare occupations, with a focus on allied health professions, and identifies occupations most commonly taken on by veterans.