Health care is one of the most in-demand industries today. Jobs in this field are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations in the next ten years, which means now is an excellent time to explore careers in health care.
Here are some jobs that are expected to be in high demand over the next few years.
1. Nurses
Nurses provide hands-on care to patients in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Many nurses also work as home health aides, providing care to patients in their homes. From entry-level positions to advanced practice roles, there are many opportunities for nurses.
Nursing is a popular career choice for many reasons. It is a stable profession with good job security and salaries. Nurses can also advance their careers by completing additional education and training. But perhaps the biggest reason to become a nurse is the ability to make a difference in people’s lives.
2. EMTs and Paramedics
As the first responders to medical emergencies, EMTs and paramedics provide care and transportation to those who are sick or injured. EMTs and paramedics are expected to see a 15% growth in employment from 2016 to 2026.
These positions require at least a high school diploma, but many EMTs and paramedics have completed postsecondary education, such as an associate’s degree or certificate program. Some states also require them to complete EMT certification courses to be licensed.
3. Medical assistants
Medical assistants are health care professionals who work in physician’s offices, clinics, and hospitals. They perform administrative and clinical tasks to support the work of physicians and other health care providers. Medical assistants are often the first point of contact for patients, so they must be able to communicate effectively and provide excellent customer service.
To be a successful medical assistant, you must be detail-oriented and have good organizational skills. You must also be able to multitask and handle various tasks at one time. Medical assistants must stay calm under pressure and work well as part of a team.
4. Physical therapists
Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries and improve their mobility. They work with patients of all ages, from infants to the elderly. Physical therapists often work in outpatient clinics, but they may also work in hospitals, nursing homes, or home health care agencies.
You will need to have good communication and interpersonal skills in this career. You must be able to motivate patients to stay active and participate in their own recovery. Physical therapists’ education and training requirements vary by state, but most states require physical therapists to have a master’s degree.
5. Pharmacists
The world of pharmacy is constantly changing, and pharmacists must be able to keep up with the latest advances in medications and treatments. Pharmacists dispense drugs prescribed by physicians and other health care providers. They also provide information about medications, their side effects, and how to use them correctly.
To become a pharmacist, you must have a bachelor’s degree in pharmacy. You must also pass a state-licensed exam. Most pharmacists also complete a one- to a two-year residency program. They must also complete continuing education courses to keep up with the latest changes in the field.
6. Radiologic technologists
Also known as radiographers, radiologic technologists use X-rays and other imaging equipment to provide diagnostic images of patients’ bodies. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Radiologic technologists must be able to operate complex equipment and follow strict safety protocols.
Because of the nature of their work, radiologic technologists must be able to remain calm under pressure. They must also be detail-oriented and have good communication skills. Requirements for this career vary by state, but most states require radiologic technologists to have an associate’s degree.
7. Respiratory therapists
These therapists treat patients with breathing disorders, such as asthma and emphysema. They also provide emergency care to heart attack patients, stroke sufferers, and people with other respiratory problems. Because of the current climate, respiratory therapists are in high demand as the number of patients with respiratory issues increases.
Respiratory therapists must have an associate’s degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program. They must also pass a state-licensed exam. Respiratory therapists must complete continuing education courses to keep up with the latest changes in the field.
8. Speech-language pathologists
Speech-language pathologists work with patients who have difficulty communicating. Many of these patients have speech disorders, such as stuttering, or language disorders, such as aphasia. Speech-language pathologists also work with patients who have swallowing disorders.
Typical tasks for speech-language pathologists include assessing patients’ communication skills, developing treatment plans, and helping patients improve their communication skills. Speech-language pathologists must have a master’s degree from an accredited speech-language pathology program. They must also pass a state-licensed exam.
There is a great demand for health care professionals in the United States. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career, consider one of the mentioned in-demand health care careers. You may be required to have a certain level of education and training, but the effort will be worth it as you help people improve their lives.
