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For career changers and students looking for a versatile career path that can weather economic storms and provide long-term job stability, a health career is a great choice.
For health jobs such as a medical assistant, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a much higher than average growth rate throughout the decade; for students this means increased opportunity upon graduation. Other health-related fields experiencing sustained growth include: health care administration, dental assistant, physical therapy and medical records.
In addition to demand which contributes to job security, these jobs also provide the opportunity to travel to other locations where need is greatest. Further, many of the core courses are similar so that as interests develop over the course of a career, it may be easier to shift among careers in the health field. With many reputable online programs, it is easier and more convenient than ever before to add a specialty area to one’s skill set which could also contribute to increased professional opportunities.
The following summary provides information from the BLS that may serve to help a potential student narrow down possible career paths:
Medical Assistants
Medical assistants provide one-on-one preliminary interviews with patients and record data used by primary care providers in a wide range of health settings.
- Students can enter the field with a high-school diploma
- Online two-year degree programs provide specialized training
- Median salary – $28,000 per year
- Advancement is possible with increased experience and education
- It is desirable for professionals in this field to have a high degree of stamina
Health Care Administrators
Health care administrators manage records and other data which support patient care. They may also supervise others and coordinate health care logistics and day-to-day office details.
- A four-year bachelor’s degree is most common; a master’s degree is needed in some advanced positions
- Online programs are available for career changers transitioning out of a health career (such as nursing) and into an administrative path
- Median salary is $84,000 per year
- Strong regard for ethics is highly-valued in this field
Physical Therapy Assistants
Provide treatment and support for patients with chronic mobility or pain issues; assist in rehabilitative services for patients with recent injuries and illnesses.
- Professionals may enter the field with a high school diploma and experience in the field
- Two-year physical therapy assistant programs provide education needed for licensing
- Median salary is $49,600
- Physical strength and a patient personality is needed in this field
Dental Assistants
Dental assistants provide a variety of dental services. They also maintain records and provide community health education.
- Professionals may enter the field directly from high school through an on- the-job training program; completion of a two-year training program is most common
- Median salary is $33,000
- Being detail-oriented with strong listening skills and a welcoming personality are all important attributes of professionals in this field
Medical Record and Health Information Technicians
Medical record and health information technicians coordinate, manage and store important patient records and perform other medical office duties related to billing and insurance reimbursement.
- A two-year associate’s degree or a four-year baccalaureate degree and on-the-job training is necessary to be competitive for top jobs
- State certification is generally required
- Median salary is $32,000
- Demonstrating a high degree of accuracy and exhibiting positive interpersonal skills are highly desirable skills to exhibit
When exploring career paths, it is also important to consult with a local chapter of a related professional organization or visit with a college career development counselor to obtain regionally-adjusted job outlook and income summary data.