A study was conducted to explore the relationship between socioeconomic and personal circumstances of women in health occupations and their labor market behavior. Using a conceptual framework (the Life Patterning Process), discussions were held in six states with a total of 279 women representing five health occupations: registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, dentists, dental hygienists, and health care administrators. The discussions centered on the interrelationships of childhood socioeconomic status, marriage, childbearing, career development, and job satisfaction. Additionally, employment benefits provided by hospitals, nursing homes, and dental group practices were studied. Major conclusions and recommendations include the following: (1) women in health occupations are increasingly combining a career with marriage and a family, a pattern which differs markedly from prevailing social norms; (2) job benefits must be redesigned to meet the needs of working women and to include those engaged in part-time work; (3) the most critical factors in initial career choice are the attitudes of parents and guidance counselors; (4) flexible scheduling should be considered for jobs in the health fields; (5) career advancement projects should be undertaken by single or related health care institutions; and (6) national legislation on health manpower, cost control, and occupational health and safety should be studied by groups representative of women's interests. (ELG)