Job Search At Age 61 After 2 1/2 Year Hiatus??

[squinky12]

I am a certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in primary care since 1990. About 2 1/2 years ago, I developed some serious health issues and had a lot of treatment and a couple of surgeries. I had a severe car accident in 2014 and had to leave my job of 7 years in 2015 due to ongoing issues. I did locum tenens for a couple of years after that with my last contract ending in November 2016.

I am now completely recovered with no restrictions, medications or other things keeping me from working and I really miss working. I have been actively searching for at least 6 months. Apparently, I can no longer do locums since the malpractice carrier will not add anyone who has not worked in over 24 months. I have applied for several jobs in my area (Central Texas) and can not even get an interview or a response of any kind. I do feel I still have a lot to offer in terms of ability and experience and would love to hear any suggestions about returning to the workforce. I have maintained my license and certification.

It is frustrating that a family nurse practitioner who graduated last year has a better chance of working in a pediatric clinic than I do.

[AnnieNP, MSN, NP]

I'm so sorry you are having a difficult time. Keep at it, don't give up.

[ToFNPandBeyond]

Have you tried contacting recruiters in your area?

I would also be on the lookout for healthcare job fairs. Create a professional portfolio that contains not just your CV, but letters of recommendations highlighting your skills and experience, any certs, license, etc and present it at job fairs or recruiters you are in contact with. Market THE HECK out of yourself!

Presenting a professional portfolio allows you to stand out "from the pack." You may get some responses this way.

Good luck!

[MikeFNPC, MSN]

I would get a little experience with volunteer work at a clinic serving the indigent population. Every county in Texas has an indigent assistance program. Just google the county and "indigent care". My wife is in FNP school and she visited one looking for preceptors. She was very impressed.

[egg122 NP, MSN, APRN]

I would echo looking at volunteer work. Also, if you haven't already, FQHCs are a good place to look for work as well.

[thaifood122]

Definitely definitely volunteer asap and look for networking opportunities in your area. Reach out to old colleagues. Also take dates off your graduation if they are on your resume, ageism is definitely a thing that gets resumes passed over, as unfortunate as that is. Reddit.com/r/resumes could be a great place to post your resume - of course remove your personal information, location, and clinic names - for feedback and for help making sure yours looks good/no red flags stand out.