‘Purpose, flexibility and innovation’: What Gen Z has taught health system executives

Recruiting and retaining Generation Z healthcare workers — from new college graduates to those with several years of experience — requires understanding their top priorities. Forty-four health systems were recognized on Forbes’ 2025 list of America’s Best Healthcare Employers for New Grads, based on employee ratings of growth opportunities, flexibility, wages, benefits and inclusion.

Becker’s asked leaders at these organizations how Gen Z has influenced their workforce planning, from a greater emphasis on well-being to doubling down on purpose-driven work. Sixteen executives, including chief human resources officers and other leaders, responded to the question, “What has Gen Z taught you about healthcare workforce planning?” Editor’s note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity an