The Health Section of Your Resume: Best Practices

Should You Include a Health Section?

The short answer is: Generally, no. Unlike fields like medicine, where specific-related information, even unintentionally, can inadvertently reveal information that could lead to unfair hiring decisions.

When It Might Be Acceptable (but Still Careful)

There are rare exceptions wherehealth-related information could be included, but only if it’s directly relevant to the job and required by the job posting. Be extremely cautious and always focus on what the employer needs to know for you to be successful in the role:

• Specific Certifications: If the job requires certifications like Basic First Aid, CPR, or Wilderness First Responder, you might list those under a “Certifications” or “Training” section, but only if directly pertinent to the job description.
• Physical Demands (with caution): If the jobinvolves specific physical requirements (e.g., lifting heavy objects, working in a specific climate), you can briefly mention your ability to perform those tasks. However, avoid vague statements about “good health” or “able to lift.” Focus on demonstrable skills. For instance: “Capable of safely lifting up to 50lbs.”

Critically assess whether this information will help you land the role, or inadvertently lead to discrimination. If in doubt, leave it out.

Example of Bad Practice (Avoid These)

Ineffective and potentially discriminatory:

• “Health: Excellent”
• “Physical Condition: Good”
• “No health issues”