30 Healthcare Interview Questions & Answers
1. At Company ABC we seek to hire healthcare professionals who have passion for our industry. If you could increase public awareness on any healthcare related issue, which would you choose?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the areas of healthcare that bring passion to you. Is there a particular issue that you would carry more public awareness to if you could?
1st Answer Example
"There are so many healthcare issues that I am passionate about, but if I could choose one, I wish that the general public were more aware of the signs and dangers of undiagnosed childhood diabetes."
2nd Answer Example
"This is a very tough question as there are so many underfunded, and worthy, healthcare issues. I am going to go with one of my biggest areas of interest and research. If I could increase public awareness on any healthcare related issue, I would choose pancreatic cancer. Yes, cancer does receive a lot of awareness; however, pancreatic cancer does not. This year, over 53,000 people in the USA will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer nearly 80% will die from the disease - both men and women."
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Anonymous Answer
Alexandra's Feedback
2. At Company ABC we seek to hire individuals dedicated to their professional development. If you could improve your knowledge on any healthcare related topic, which would you choose?
How to Answer
Being dedicated to your professional development and knowledge is a huge bonus for most employers. Talk to the interviewer about the area of healthcare that you would expand your knowledge if given the opportunity.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I can always learn more about compassionate care and the techniques surrounding long-term compassionate care. I like the idea of professional development and am open to any coursework you suggest."
2nd Answer Example
"There is always more to learn in a variety of areas; however, I would especially enjoy furthering my education and training in pediatric care. I find children to be most interesting to work with."
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3. At Company ABC we see a lot of candidate interest for positions such as this. Why are you the best candidate for us?
How to Answer
What makes you a stand-out candidate when there are so many other potential candidates for Company ABC to consider? Talk to the interviewer about the qualities that make you the best candidate for them.
1st Answer Example
"There are a lot of talented people in the healthcare pool but what makes me stand out is my willingness to take feedback. I am a humble employee. Also, I am a dedicated worker. I have had just one sick day in 5 years."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that I am the best candidate for you because of my double degree in both Healthcare Management, and Health Services Administration. In addition to these studies, I am also bilingual in both English and Spanish. This skill will enable me to communicate very clearly with your predominantly Spanish community."
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4. There are many options for employment in the healthcare field. Why do you want to work for Company ABC?
How to Answer
What attracts you to this position with Company ABC? Talk to the interviewer about your primary reasons for being drawn to this role. Solidify your answer by clearly stating your interest in landing the role.
1st Answer Example
"I want to work for Company ABC because your industry reputation is second to none. I am seeking a long-term career opportunity in an emotionally and physically healthy environment. I would love to work here."
2nd Answer Example
"There are multiple reasons why I want to work for your organization. First, you are best in the industry for my particular specialty (insert specialty). Second, your workplace culture is collaborative and positive. Third, I feel that your community would offer me the growth that I crave in my career, and the opportunity to advance from within."
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5. What type of career growth would you like to see with Company ABC? How can we help you to advance?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you would like to grow in your career over the next few years. The company wants assurance that you see this as a long-term fit and they want to know how to help you grow.
1st Answer Example
"I would like to grow into a leadership role in the next 3-4 years. Any additional training in leadership, mentorship, and management would be a great way to help me advance in your organization."
2nd Answer Example
"Thank you for asking! I would love to advance into medical billing and coding once I have enough experience in general health services administration. I foresee this happening in the next 2-3 years and am committing to this path by attending evening classes and a few related workshops."
6. In your opinion, what is the most important quality you can possess as a healthcare professional?
How to Answer
Think about the qualities you admire in other healthcare professionals. Talk to the interviewer about the qualities that you feel a healthcare provider should possess. Do you have these qualities?
1st Answer Example
"I feel that the most important qualities that a healthcare professional can possess are endless compassion, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge. I do possess these qualities and am excited to think about my potential growth with Company ABC by applying these qualities."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some additional qualities that healthcare professionals should possess:
- Clear communicator
- Avid listener
- Easy to understand
- Ready to put patient needs first (selfless)
- Desire to help
- Integrity in all they do
- Professionalism
- Detail oriented
- Able to self-manage
- Healthy coping skills
- Empathetic
- Motivated
- Ethical
7. Working in healthcare is a very demanding career path. What keeps you motivated on the hardest days?
How to Answer
When you are having an especially stressful day, what keeps you motivated to continue? How can the interviewer be assured that you will always bring your 'A' game no matter what challenges you face?
1st Answer Example
"I can stay motivated, even on the tough days, because I know that my career focuses on helping people. I love to assist others and to know that I make a difference is all that I need."
2nd Answer Example
"My motivation comes primarily from within me. I am skilled when it comes to pushing myself, and I remind myself on a regular basis that I am here to help others. I have a true servant-hood mentality, which drives me. In addition to this factor, I find external motivation from working with positive people who can teach me along the way. New knowledge and a fresh approach are fantastic motivators."
8. At Company ABC we seek to hire individuals who value education. Walk me through your related post-secondary education. Where did you struggle the most? Which courses were your favorite?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your post-secondary education. Discuss your high points and the more challenging points.
1st Answer Example
"I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Felician College in 2009. While attending University, I feel that my most challenging course was Statistics for Life Sciences. I completed this course with a B grade. My best course was in Mental Health Studies. I found it to be fascinating and graduated top of my class in that course."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently graduated with my degree in Clinical Medical Assisting. There were many challenges along the way; however, I would say that my overall experience was incredibly positive. If I had to choose my biggest struggle, I would say that Anatomy and Physiology were the most in-depth. With that said, I did receive very high grades in those courses. My favorite subject of study, overall, was Pharmacology."
9. What do you feel we do best here at Company ABC?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to feel confident that you are engaged in the interview process. Display that you have researched Company ABC before your interview and getting to know what they do best. Talk about your research and findings.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Company ABC quite extensively and through my research, I feel that your specialty is XYZ. This area is where your patient feedback is mostly positive, which was great to read!"
2nd Answer Example
"As your website and advertisements say, you are the best in the area for patient compassion. I could not agree more that compassion is the number one area we should be great when it comes to the healthcare industry."
10. What do you know about the workplace culture at Company ABC? What is your ideal workplace environment?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the research you have conducted when it comes to the workplace culture at Company ABC. Assure the interviewer that you would find their workplace culture a stable fit.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched the workplace culture at Company ABC and feel that your environment is a perfect fit for what I am seeking. You encourage continued education of your employees and foster a collaborative environment."
2nd Answer Example
"My ideal workplace environment will include leaders who are encouraging and comfortable giving constructive feedback. I also prefer to work in an environment where growth and continued education is encouraged. I have heard great things about working for Company ABC, and from what I understand, you offer exactly this type of environment."
11. In your opinion, what has been the greatest advancement in healthcare this year? How do you stay up to date on new trends and breakthroughs in the healthcare industry?
How to Answer
Display to the interviewer that you are interested in the new advances in healthcare. Be prepared to defend your answer.
1st Answer Example
"I follow a few medical journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine and The Lancet. I read a fascinating article a short time ago discussing the advancements in artificial retinae and other solutions for the blind. It's incredible to me how far these solutions have come."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that Patient-Centric R&D and Direct to Patient Clinical Research is the next big thing for the healthcare industry. I stay up to date on new trends through a variety of Google alerts, and some popular medical journals such as JAMA (Journal of American Medical Association). I love to learn new trends and tips, so if you'd like to share with me your favorites, I would love to hear about those!"
12. Tell me about your greatest work related accomplishment.
How to Answer
Talking about your most significant accomplishment will give the interviewer a definite idea of where you place your values. It will also show the interviewer more about your personality, how you like to be motivated, and how to coach you in the future. It is okay to brag a little bit when answering this question. Show that you are proud of yourself and your career accomplishments!
1st Answer Example
"The greatest accomplishment in my career was graduating University as an honors student while still working full time in a related field. I was top of my class, and working full time. This success showed me that I could dedicate myself to my career, and reach the goals that I set for myself. It felt great to accomplish so much and receive recognition for my dedication."
2nd Answer Example
"I have many accomplishments that make me proud. Overall, I would say that my greatest work accomplishment is the positive reputation that I have in the healthcare industry. I take great pride in my work and am happy that this comes through in the results of my day to day work."
13. In the healthcare industry, problems arise frequently. When a major problem arises, what is your first reaction?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if your reactions to problems reflect maturity and professionalism. How you react will significantly determine how you fit with their existing team.
Perhaps your computer crashes, and you realize you may have just lost all of your hard work. Or maybe you are limited on time and have a deadline rapidly approaching. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you take a very methodical approach to problem-solving, rather than reacting impulsively when a problem occurs.
1st Answer Example
"When a major problem arises, my first instinct is to take a step back and absorb what just happened. I then go into "
2nd Answer Example
"I have taught myself to become much calmer with my first reactions when problems arise. Now, I will step back and review my options for solving the problem rather than allow myself to become frustrated."
14. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
How to Answer
Have you ever had to take on a task or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?
1st Answer Example
"When my manager went on unexpected medical leave for three months last year I was asked to step into her position in the interim. I knew the basics but was certainly not trained on the specifics of the role. I was able to take it on successfully by leaning on my team, reading a lot of company manuals, and asking many questions. Once my manager returned she was very pleased with the progress that I made, and I received a promotion."
2nd Answer Example
"At times, I will be asked to perform tasks in our computer system that I am not completely familiar with. When this happens, I will not ask for help right away. Rather, I will search for the answer either in our manuals or online. I am comfortable taking on new tasks and enjoy learning new skills."
15. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers, so it is essential that you can showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Patience is indeed a virtue but can be challenging to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you possess the ability to keep your cool in challenging conditions.
1st Answer Example
"I do consider myself a patient person. I would rate myself an eight /10 for patience because I certainly have room to grow, but I do have a very long fuse. If I need a boost of patience in a challenging situation, I will take a step away, count to 10 and then return to the situation. I recently read a book, 'The Power of Patience' by M.J. Ryan which also gave me some excellent new methods for coping with stress."
2nd Answer Example
"I was once working with a group that could not quite get along, and it tested my patience a bit because it prevented us from staying on track and focusing on the goals. I went above and beyond in helping the group get along by scheduling lunches as a team and helping to mediate situations that needed it."
16. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader.
Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time.
Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.
1st Answer Example
"I think that it is possible to be a great team member, even when disagreeing with the leader. It's all in how you maintain respect for each other despite the difference in opinion."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I think it is possible! What makes a great team member is not that they agree with everything but the level of respect and positive thought that goes into the person's communication style. It's okay to disagree you have to communicate your thoughts professionally."
17. What is your greatest weakness?
How to Answer
Pick a weakness that is not a core skill for this position. You can be candid in your answer; recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness.
Perhaps you are watching TED talks to gain skills in a particular area, reading the latest-and-greatest book on the subject, or maybe you are taking a seminar at a nearby community center. We are all human with our weaknesses, so don't be afraid to share yours!
1st Answer Example
"I believe I could improve on some technical skills including Excel and PowerPoint. Currently I am at a beginner to intermediate level; however, I would be more comfortable at an advanced level. I have enrolled myself in an evening/weekend workshop for the next six weeks. We will see how stellar my skills are after that course!"
2nd Answer Example
"This is super cliche, but it's also true. I am not good at delegating to others. When I become submerged in a project, I don't like to give away any of the control. While this can be good, it can also definitely inhibit the outcome of the project and my growth as a team player and individual.
I am currently working on this, as I know it is a deficit."
18. What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In business, especially when entering leadership, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you or a saying that you grew up with that resonates with you?
1st Answer Example
"My mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly important to be a humble leader and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of leader that takes credit for good work."
2nd Answer Example
"My mission is to give my best 100% of the time. It's important to me that I have a great reputation in this industry through hard work and a positive attitude."
19. When are your leadership skills the most effective?
How to Answer
When you have a great relationship with the individuals you are leading, your leadership skills will be the most effective. Show the interviewer that you recognize a great relationship starts with clear communication, trust, and honesty. Tell the interviewer that you spend time genuinely getting to know your team.
For instance, perhaps you like to understand what activities they have going on both inside and outside of work, their kids' names, or if they have any pets. Building a relationship with your team will ensure that you can frequently and genuinely ask them how they are doing. The more comfortable they are, the better chance they will come to you for help in the workplace when they need it.
1st Answer Example
"My leadership skills are the most effective when my relationship with the employee isn't just a surface connection. I want to have true knowledge of their life and a good understanding of their career goals. When my employees know that I can help them to achieve their goals, they are more likely to be an engaged part of the team."
2nd Answer Example
"I feel that my leadership skills are directly related to the happiness and engagement of my team. I spend a lot of time making sure that my team of staff are happy, confident, and invested in their jobs."
20. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
1st Answer Example
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."
2nd Answer Example
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong communicator. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator, so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
21. How do you handle communicating bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate?
How to Answer
One of the toughest parts of communication can be delivering bad news to people that you work with and for whom you care. Whether it is providing a less than positive work review or terminating someone, giving bad news is not an easy task. Assure the interviewer that you can handle this type of duty in a transparent, concise, and professional manner.
1st Answer Example
"I certainly do not enjoy communicating bad news to a co-worker, but I do have experience in doing so. When this type of task is required of me, I make sure to practice empathy. Truth is always key, so I will be honest and clear when communicating the news. For instance, if I am to terminate someone's employment, I will not sugar coat the reasons why. It's best they know so that they can learn from the experience."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very to-the-point when it comes to my communication skills. Good or bad news, there is always a way to improve the situation and create something good from it. After delivering bad news, I will work with my coworker to find a viable solution."
22. If you were not able to be in the healthcare profession, what other careers do you see yourself doing?
How to Answer
Show the interviewer that you know your strengths and talk about a profession that seems exciting and interesting to you. It's great to talk about a dream job but be sure to solidify your interest in the role and career path for which you are interviewing.
1st Answer Example
"I cannot imagine being unable to work in this profession because I enjoy it so much! If I had to draw on my other skills and passions, I would choose to work for a non-profit organization such as the local animal shelter. I am a big animal lover so that would be a lot of fun."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a very creative person who has always had a penchant for the arts. I realize that it's completely different than my career path but if I knew, early on, that I could have made a career as an artist - I would have explored that option further. Of course, I am delighted with the choices I made and never have any regrets."
23. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you genuinely feel that honesty is the best policy. Many will argue that honesty is not always the best policy. What is your take? Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on morality in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Sometimes full disclosure can damage someone's self-esteem, and reality isn't always best expressed in full and can be self-indulgent based on the person's intention. In those instances, honesty isn't always the best policy."
2nd Answer Example
"Honesty is always the best policy. Often, it is just a matter of how you communicate and deliver your message so managing this with each situation is critical to building honest and trustworthy relationships."
24. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
How to Answer
When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you can be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities.
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the number of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed, but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
2nd Answer Example
"Assuming that the projects have different stakeholders, I interview each to determine the value of increased productivity, morale or revenue, decreased costs, and the overall impact."
25. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?
How to Answer
It is always best to support your reply with a real-life example. Talk to the interviewer about your level of attentiveness when it comes to details on the job.
1st Answer Example
"My co-workers would describe my attention to detail as very strong. I can very easily point out spelling discrepancies in communication and will notice the small things. I think big-picture as well but have always had a knack for details."
2nd Answer Example
"My attention to detail is a point that I have been working on a lot this past year. I am meticulous but, in the past, have pushed my documentation back a little bit. It's something I am conscious of and continually working on."
26. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus based on our facilities profits. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $80,000 per year. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
27. What makes you a great problem solver?
How to Answer
Employers want to know that you have a methodical approach to problem-solving. Consider the skills and qualities that help you successfully face problems. Perhaps you have a keen eye for detail. Maybe you can see opportunity when others can only focus on the issue. Share your strengths as a problem solver, and your ability to come up with innovative solutions.
1st Answer Example
"I am a great problem solver because I do not allow stress to cloud my judgment and mute my creativity. I am a keen observer with a great memory which allows me to recall unique solutions or ideas."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe I am a great problem solver because I am sure to gather as many facts as possible, I look at the problem and its potential solutions from multiple angles, and I am not afraid to make a creative decision, that might seem off the beaten path."
28. What do you think might be the greatest challenges faced in this job? How will you overcome these challenges?
How to Answer
Even though it may seem like a dream job, the interviewer wants to know that you have realistic expectations of the role and that you will not be blindsided if problems or challenges present themselves. Keep your answer simple. It is okay to ask for clarification on the position if you do not fully understand what challenges are in store for you.
1st Answer Example
"I think the greatest challenges in this role will be to learn the proper operation of the equipment. Another challenge will be the physical aspect of the position as I will be required to stand and walk around most of the day. I will be sure to pay keen attention to training and ask questions along the way. In regards to the physical component - I will get used to the additional activity after just a couple of days, I'm sure."
2nd Answer Example
"I think the added responsibility of running one of the highest volume departments in the hospital will be an adjustment, but it's a welcome challenge. I am looking forward to tackling it head on and growing through the challenges, because I know on the other side of those challenges, of that responsibility, are the biggest opportunities."
29. Who has inspired you in your life and why?
How to Answer
Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, author - literally anyone! Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why.
1st Answer Example
"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like her as much as I can."
2nd Answer Example
"The previous physician that I worked under was a huge inspiration to me. Her passion for patient health and her career successes were motivating and put the fire in me to climb the ladder in my career."
30. How do you manage your time, even on the busiest days?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about the types of tools you use to stay on task and meet deadlines. Discuss how you prioritize when everything demands your attention at once. Think about the ways you manage your projects and daily tasks.
1st Answer Example
"I manage my time by exercising the idea of 'time-blocking.' This method means that I won't incessantly check my email; instead, I will allow myself to return emails in 30-minute time blocks, four times per day. Setting calendar alerts and personal deadlines for myself has also helped a lot."
2nd Answer Example
"Very carefully! I prioritize deadlines and work that needs to be done then work backward from there. When necessary, I utilize my resources and team to pitch in and contribute."