6 Careers for People Who Want to Work in Healthcare

Aug 12, 2021

Healthcare careers are rewarding, and they can provide high job satisfaction along with other job perks such as good salary potential and flexible work schedules. Many healthcare roles give the opportunity to help people in a meaningful way and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Healthcare is a diverse industry with a huge variety of job roles on offer. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in this exciting field, then here are six of the best healthcare careers to consider:

1. Physician

A physician is a qualified medical doctor who is trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses, injuries, and diseases. Other duties of physicians include prescribing medication, giving patients advice on preventative care, and keeping accurate medical records. Most physicians choose a specialty and become experts in their chosen field. The most popular physician specialties include pediatrician, gynecologist, family physician, and surgeon. Physicians who specialize typically have higher earning potential and better job prospects.

Physicians complete several years of training before becoming licensed to practice. The process usually takes between seven and 15 years, depending on the method of study and prior experience. To become a licensed physician, you must complete a four-year training program at an accredited medical school. Graduates must then complete a residency training program in their chosen field before applying for a license to practice. Training to become a qualified physician is a long and demanding process, but it is considered one of the most rewarding careers in healthcare. Furthermore, this rigorous training prepares professionals for specialized fields such as general surgery, where there is a consistent demand and ample general surgery jobs available, underscoring the critical need for skilled surgeons in healthcare settings worldwide.

2. Nurse practitioner

According to the 2021 Best Health Care Jobs list, the role of nurse practitioner was voted the second-best healthcare job based on factors such as pay, job satisfaction, and future job prospects. Nurse practitioners share similar roles and responsibilities to physicians. They care for patients on wards, diagnose and treat illnesses, and prescribe and administer medication. Many nurses specialize in an area of nursing such as pediatrics, midwifery, family practice, or emergency care.

There are several routes to become a nurse practitioner. Many aspiring nurses complete a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) followed by an accredited nurse practitioner program. Graduate nurses can then apply for nurse practitioner certifications and a state license. Professionals from other disciplines can also become certified nurse practitioners by completing online accelerated bsn programs for non nurses. This is an intense course that gives aspiring nurses a fast track to a fulfilling career as nurse practitioners.

3. Dentist

Dentists focus on diagnosing and treating health issues that affect the teeth, gums, and mouth. They carry out various dental treatments such as filling cavities and extracting teeth. Dentists also perform cosmetic dental work such as whitening teeth or fitting veneers to boost a person’s confidence and self-image. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, dentists earn an average of $164,010 a year.

It usually takes around eight years to become a qualified dentist. The typical route to qualification involves completing a four-year bachelor’s degree followed by a four-year program at an accredited dental school. Graduates can then apply for a license as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM). Certified dentists can then apply for a role in an established dental practice or open a private practice.

4. Pharmacist

The primary duty of a pharmacist is to check that prescriptions are suitable and within the law before dispensing medication to patients. The General Pharmaceutical Council states that pharmacists are responsible for “advising patients about medicines, including how to take them and what side effects may occur.” Pharmacists are employed in a wide variety of environments such as community pharmacies, care homes, prisons, and other organizations in the pharmaceutical industry.

If you want to become a pharmacist, then you must start by completing an undergraduate bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject like biology or medicine. Aspiring pharmacists must then pass the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) and apply to an accredited pharmacy school to earn a doctoral degree. Graduates must then satisfy the licensing requirements in their state before they can apply for a pharmacist license. This usually involves completing licensure exams and a residency training program.

5.  Caregiver

A caregiver helps people with day-to-day living and routine activities like housework or getting dressed. The duties of a caregiver vary depending on the needs of the person they are caring for. The role may involve personal care, mobility support, administering medication, or providing emotional support and companionship. Caregivers can provide support to residents in a care home or to patients who are still living at home but require care to remain living independently.

There are no minimum formal educational requirements to become a caregiver. However, many employers expect caregivers to have a certificate in caregiving, such as those offered by The American Caregiver Association. This organization offers several online courses that are designed to equip caregivers with the skills and expertise to provide high-quality care in a wide range of settings.

6. Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are mental health physicians who diagnose and treat emotional and behavioral disorders, including anxiety disorders, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, and many other mental health issues. They use a variety of medications and therapies to treat and prevent mental illness.

Psychiatrists must earn a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, which usually takes four years. They must then attend a four-year program at a medical school when they specialize in psychiatry. This is followed by a four-year residency program before applying for a state license.

Conclusion

There are tons of great reasons to work in healthcare – attractive starting salaries, advancement opportunities, and flexible hours are just a few of the benefits. People working in healthcare also have the opportunity to save lives and help people in a significant way.

There is a huge variety of healthcare roles to choose from, meaning you can find a career path that is well matched to your skills, experience, and interests. Above are some popular healthcare careers that might suit you if you want to work in this rewarding field.