Thinking of a Mid-Career Switch? Age is Not a Barrier
Changing industries after years in another field can feel like stepping into the unknown. Many believe that shifting to healthcare later in life is too difficult—but is that really true?
Elaine’s journey proves otherwise. From running her own business to finding purpose in healthcare, she discovered that with the right training and mindset, a meaningful career switch is possible.
Myth 1: It’s Too Late to Start Over
Reality: Your experience is an asset in healthcare.
After 16 years of running her own online business renting out toys for children, Elaine knew it was time for a change. Increased competition and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic led her to close her business and explore a new path. While many worry that starting over in a new industry is impossible, Elaine found that her years of managing customers and running a business gave her valuable skills—like patience, organisation, and problem-solving—that were just as relevant in healthcare.
💡 Key Takeaway: Your past experience brings valuable skills that can help you succeed in a new career.
Myth 2: You Need a Healthcare Background to Succeed
Reality: Training programmes equip career switchers with the skills they need.
Elaine’s turning point came when she accompanied a friend to physiotherapy sessions. Watching the therapist’s patience and skill made her realise the impact healthcare professionals have on people’s lives.
Inspired, she enrolled in the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP) at HMI Institute, choosing the WSQ Higher Certificate in Healthcare (Therapy Support) course. Despite initial doubts about returning to the classroom, she quickly adapted with the guidance of experienced instructors and a strong support system among her classmates.
One module left a lasting impact on Elaine was “Implementing Interventions in Therapy Support”.
“At first, I wasn’t sure how I would manage hands-on tasks like transferring patients, but our instructor, Joel, was incredibly patient. His guidance built my confidence.”
💡 Key Takeaway: With the right training, anyone can transition into healthcare—no prior medical background required.
Myth 3: It’s Hard to Find a Job Without Healthcare Experience
Reality: Clinical attachments and training lead to job opportunities.
A major benefit of the SCTP was the opportunity for real-world experience. Elaine’s three-week clinical attachment at Kwong Wai Shiu Hospital reinforced her decision to enter healthcare and led to an unexpected job offer. “If it weren’t for the clinical attachment, I wouldn’t have discovered this opportunity. Now, I work with seniors, organise active ageing programmes, and feel truly fulfilling,”
💡 Key Takeaway: Practical experience during training can open doors to career opportunities.
Myth 4: Career Switching Means Starting from Scratch
Reality: Transferable skills can help you thrive in a new role.
Elaine’s years as an entrepreneur taught her how to manage relationships, plan activities, and adapt to challenges—all of which are valuable in healthcare.
Now, she organises active ageing programmes and conducts home visits to support seniors in the community.
💡 Key Takeaway: Your past work experience is more relevant than you think. Skills like organisation, communication, and adaptability translate well into healthcare roles.
Myth 5: Career Changes Are Risky
Reality: With the right support and training, a mid-career switch can lead to stability and fulfilment.
Elaine’s journey shows that with structured training, job placement support, and resilience, a new career in healthcare is achievable.
How HMI Institute’s SCTP Supports Career Switchers
✅ Up to $3,000/month SkillsFuture Mid-Career Training Allowance for Singaporeans 40 years and above (T&Cs apply)
✅ $4,000 SkillsFuture Credits (Mid-Career) Top-up Claimable
✅ Up to 90% course fee subsidies for Singaporeans, PRs, and LTVP+ holders
✅ Offset your course fees with your SkillsFuture Credit
✅ Structured learning and hands-on training
✅ Job placement support to help you secure employment in the Care Economy
Ready to Take the First Step?
Your career transformation starts today. Explore how HMI Institute’s SCTP programme can help you transition into a meaningful and stable healthcare career.
