Overview of Careers in the Medical Field
You’ve always dreamed of helping others and making a difference in people’s lives. If that sounds like you, medical field careers could be the perfect path. With so many options – from hands-on nursing to research-focused roles – there’s a niche for every personality and interest. The medical field offers job security, competitive pay, and immense personal fulfillment. This article will open your eyes to the diverse medical career possibilities. We’ll look at the education required, day-to-day responsibilities, job growth, and salary ranges for the most in-demand positions. Whether you’re still deciding or ready to take the plunge, you’ll learn how to get started in an exciting and meaningful medical profession. The rewarding world of healing and discovery awaits – let’s explore it together!
In-Demand Medical Jobs: Job Descriptions, Education Requirements, and Salary Info
Doctors
As a doctor, you diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses. You’ll need many years of schooling and training, but the payoff can be very rewarding. The most common types of doctors are:
– General practitioners provide routine care and refer patients to specialists as needed.
– Specialists like cardiologists, oncologists, and surgeons focus on specific areas of medicine.
Nurses
Nurses provide & coordinate patient care. Nurses work closely with the doctors and other healthcare staffs. The main types of nurses include:
– Registered nurses have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and provide basic care like checking vital signs, administering medications, and changing bandages.
– Nurse practitioners have a master’s degree and can diagnose and treat common illnesses.
– Certified nursing assistants help registered nurses and patients with daily activities. They typically need a postsecondary certificate or on-the-job training.
Therapists
Therapists like physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and respiratory therapists help patients recover and improve functions. Most need at least a master’s degree and state license or certification.
– Physical therapists help patients recover movement and strength after injuries or illnesses.
– Occupational therapists help patients improve daily activities and skills.
– Speech therapists assess and treat speech, language, and swallowing disorders.
Technologists
Healthcare technologists like radiologic technologists, diagnostic medical sonographers, and cardiovascular technologists operate specialized equipment to assist in diagnosis and treatment. Most complete a certificate or associate’s degree program and are certified or licensed.
Registered Nurse
Registered nurses provide & coordinate patient care, educate the patients & the public about the various health conditions, as well as provide advice & emotional support to patients and their family members. To become an RN, you need an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in nursing and must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for RNs in the U.S. is over $73,000 per year.
Medical Assistant
Medical assistants perform administrative & clinical tasks to keep offices of the physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, & other health practitioners so running smoothly. Most medical assistants have a postsecondary nondegree award or associate’s degree. The median annual wage for medical assistants in the U.S. is over $34,000.
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists (PTs) help injured or ill people improve their movement and manage pain. They examine patients’ medical histories and then test and measure their strength, range of motion, balance, and coordination. PTs need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which requires 3 years of graduate study after earning a bachelor’s degree. According to the BLS, the median pay for physical therapists in the U.S. is over $89,000 per year.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Diagnostic medical sonographers use special imaging equipment that directs high-frequency sound waves into areas of the patient’s body. They need to complete a postsecondary nondegree award or associate’s degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. The median pay for diagnostic medical sonographers in the U.S. is over $74,000 per year, according to the BLS.
