The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States right now, and this growth trend for jobs for health sector is expected to continue in the coming years. As the proportion of the population reaching their senior years continues to increase with time, the healthcare sector is experiencing a constant rise in demand to meet their needs.
Healthcare professionals aren’t just found in hospitals anymore; their role has extended far beyond patient care to include positions in administration, counseling, community care, information systems, and so much more. The industry is so vast that there are a variety of healthcare careers out there to suit every qualification and skill set. This means you do not necessarily have to be a doctor or nurse to work in the industry; there are plenty of other, just as lucrative, healthcare career paths to choose from. For instance, specialized equipment like a tablet hardness tester plays a crucial role in quality control processes within pharmaceutical manufacturing
Let’s have a look at the top in-demand jobs in the health sector right now:
- MEDICAL SCIENTIST
If you are fascinated by the process of coming up with new medicines and treatments for prevailing diseases, a career as a medical scientist is always in demand. Professionals in this field are responsible for analyzing medical samples to investigate the cause of chronic diseases in order to come up with a treatment for them. They also identify drug potency and define the dosage of pharmaceuticals. Some are involved in the design and manufacturing of medical equipment and devices. A good start to becoming a medical scientist is to get an undergraduate medical laboratory science degree, though you will most likely have to continue your education as medical scientists are usually required to have a Ph.D. in their related subject.
- PUBLIC HEALTH PROJECT MANAGER
Public health project managers work for research institutions, government agencies, social work organizations, and NGOs to develop and oversee projects aimed at improving the general wellbeing of the community. Their work involves managing staff members and delegating responsibilities, managing the project budget, and ensuring the smooth running of the project so that it achieves its objectives.
If you wish to work for the betterment of your community, working as a public health project manager is a high-paying and fulfilling career option. However, considering the competitiveness of the job market, most such positions require a Master’s in Public Health. Fortunately, professionals have the choice of opting for an mph online program, which allows them to get the qualification they need while studying according to their schedule.
- RADIOLOGIC & MRI TECHNOLOGISTS
These professionals provide all kinds of imaging services like x-rays and MRI scans, which are then used by physicians to diagnose the underlying problem of the patient. Their services are always in demand and are expected to grow by 9% from 2018-2028; as a more considerable chunk of the population starts to age, there is going to be an increasing need to diagnose their medical conditions using imaging tools. Radiologic and MRI technologists usually require an Associate’s degree and a license to practice in their state.
- REGISTERED NURSE
A registered nurse is a skilled nursing role that focuses on patient care. RNs are responsible for providing patient care and coordinating with doctors as well as the patient’s families, offering their support and advice. They work in all kinds of healthcare settings, including hospitals, long-term care centers, as well as patient’s homes. A Bachelor’s Degree is often the minimum requirement for RN positions.
- OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY SPECIALISTS
Every organization, regardless of its size and industry, must meet the health and safety standards applicable to it. Occupational health and safety specialists work in a variety of organizations, ensuring the relevant industry standards and regulations are being complied with. They make suggestions to improve compliance and resolve issues related to non-compliance. A Bachelor’s degree is often the minimum requirement for these professionals.
- RADIATION THERAPISTS
Radiation therapists are involved in administering high doses of radiation to patients battling cancer or other chronic diseases. They work in a team with other professionals to collect and assess patient data to come up with a suitable plan for treatment. With the advancement in radiation therapies and the increased demand for these services from the aging population, the future appears to be bright for radiation therapists. You need an Associate’s degree as well as a state license to work in this role.
- HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNICIANS
Proper maintenance of medical records is vital for every healthcare organization, and this is why professionals in this field are always in demand. A health information technician is responsible for ensuring that the medical records of each patient are maintained in an accurate and organized manner. They make sure all medical documents are correctly filed and available wherever they are needed. They may also be responsible for translating vast amounts of data into simplified information for use by other healthcare professionals.
SUMMING UP
Healthcare is one of the very few industries in the world that can never face a decline. It is also so diverse that you can always find a suitable position, whether you have significant qualifications and experience under your belt or are just starting your career. All that is needed to succeed is a passion for changing people’s lives for the better and a commitment to what you do. Once you have that, you are sure to reach great heights while working in this industry.
