The Top 5 Jobs in Health Care That Don’t Require a Medical Degree
Healthcare is a field that is constantly evolving and expanding, and with the growth comes an increase in job opportunities. Often people believe that the only way to be part of the healthcare industry is through medical school and a degree in medicine, but that’s not always the case. This article highlights 5 jobs in healthcare that don’t require a medical degree, yet offer rewarding and fulfilling careers.
1. Medical and Health Services Manager
Medical and Health Services Managers, also known as Healthcare Executives, Medical Managers, or Healthcare Administrators, are responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing medical and health services. They can work in hospitals, clinics, or any healthcare setting. Their primary role is to ensure that healthcare facilities meet the changing needs of the patients, health care providers, and communities they serve.
A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or other related fields, years of experience in the healthcare industry, and certification may be required for this role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $100,980 as of May 2020.
2. Medical and Laboratory Technologist
Medical and laboratory technologists are responsible for analyzing samples of bodily fluids and tissues to identify pathogens, monitor patients’ health conditions, and diagnose illnesses. They work in hospitals, clinical labs, and research facilities. They play a vital role in providing quality diagnostic results to physicians to aid in the treatment of patients.
To become a medical and laboratory technologist, one must complete an accredited program in medical laboratory technology. Additionally, a certification and licensure might be mandatory to practice in some states. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for medical and laboratory technologists was $53,120 as of May 2020.
3. Health Educator
Health educators promote healthy habits and lifestyles through education and therapy. They teach individuals and communities how to manage and prevent diseases, injuries, and other health problems. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, government agencies, and private organizations.
A bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in public health, health education, or another related field is required to be a health educator. Additionally, some employers may prefer certification from a national accrediting organization. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for health educators was $49,910 as of May 2020.
4. Medical Records and Information Technician
Medical Records and Information Technicians are responsible for maintaining patient records and managing health information data. They enter patient data into software programs, ensure the data is accurate and secure, and retrieve patient records when requested by healthcare providers or patients.
A minimum of a certificate or associate’s degree in health information technology or a related field is required for this role. Some employers may prefer a Registered Health Information Technician certification. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for medical records and information technicians was $44,090 as of May 2020.
5. Medical Social Worker
Medical Social Workers help people cope with the social and psychological aspects of illnesses and medical conditions. They work with patients and their families to navigate the healthcare system, providing emotional support, and connecting them with resources and services that can help them cope with their health issues.
To become a medical social worker, a minimum of a master’s degree in social work is required, and also licensure is mandatory in some states. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for medical social workers was $56,750 as of May 2020.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the healthcare industry is extensive and diverse, offering a wide range of job opportunities that don’t require a medical degree but are still fulfilling and rewarding. These five jobs are just a few examples of the various paths that one can pursue in the healthcare field. As demand for healthcare services continues to grow, these jobs will continue to be in high demand, making them a great option for those looking for a stable and long-term career.
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