
The healthcare industry is full of exciting and rewarding career opportunities. From working directly with patients to behind-the-scenes roles, there is something for everyone. But with so many different options, it could be tough to decide which healthcare career is the best fit for you. That is where this guide comes in!
This blog will take a look at some of the top healthcare careers of 2023. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the vast world of healthcare occupations.
Nurse Practitioners
Nurse practitioners provide a broad range of medical services. They perform physical exams, analyze diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and educate patients and families on continued care. Depending on the specific setting, they may also be responsible for managing patient records, maintaining accurate documentation, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans.
In the United States, aspiring nurse practitioners must first become registered nurses (RNs) by completing a four-year bachelor’s degree program in nursing and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). After becoming an RN, individuals can then enroll in a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program to become nurse practitioners.
MSN programs prepare students to provide advanced nursing care and work in specialized practice areas. If you are working as an RN, you can get enrolled in an online MSN in nursing education. That way, you can easily manage your schedule and complete your studies during a full-time job.
Surgeon
Surgeons play a crucial role in the medical field. These highly skilled professionals are responsible for performing surgical procedures on patients to diagnose, treat, or prevent various medical conditions. Surgeons should have excellent hand-eye coordination, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, they must be able to operate effectively under pressure, as surgeries are often unpredictable and require quick thinking.
If you are considering a career as a surgeon, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree, medical school, and a surgical residency program. It is a long and grueling process, but the satisfaction of helping people and making a significant difference in their lives can make the hard work well worth it. Surgeons also receive great salaries, which is another promising reason to consider this career.
Respiratory Therapists
Respiratory therapists are an integral part of the healthcare industry. They provide care for patients with heart and lung problems. These conditions range from asthma and chronic bronchitis to emphysema, cystic fibrosis, and sleep apnea.
Respiratory therapists also have the skills to respond to emergency situations like heart attacks and strokes. It is a challenging profession that involves performing diagnostic tests for lung capacity, administering breathing treatments, and consulting with physicians and surgeons. In terms of education, many respiratory therapists have a bachelor’s degree in addition to their associate’s degree.
The CDC reports that 16 million people in the United States suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a disorder that restricts airflow and makes breathing hard. The figure highlights the increasing demand for respiratory therapists and the potential for job growth in this field. The BLS projects a 14% employment increase for respiratory therapists between 2021 and 2031.
Pharmacist
The primary role of a pharmacist is to dispense medications to patients. It typically requires accurately reading and transcribing medical prescriptions, labeling medication containers, and administering the correct dosage to the patient. These professionals may also be responsible for maintaining records of the medications they dispense and keeping track of inventory. Pharmacists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and retail pharmacies.
Pharmacists must get a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and hold a valid license to work in the field. Furthermore, many states ask pharmacists to finish a residency program and take a certification exam before practicing. With an aging population and rising drug use, the job market for pharmacists is predicted to be strong over the next years. In the United States, a pharmacist can expect an average annual compensation of $128,767.
Dentist
Dentists are medical professionals trained to assess, treat, and prevent diseases in the mouth and teeth. They perform various procedures, including filling cavities, extracting teeth, and straightening teeth with braces. Dentists also play a crucial role in educating patients on proper oral hygiene and helping them to maintain good oral health. It involves giving advice on brushing, flossing, and avoiding excessively sugary and acidic foods that can lead to tooth decay. Dentists may also recommend that patients see specialists for more complex procedures.
You need a bachelor’s degree and a license to practice in this field. Orthodontics, oral surgery, and pediatric dentistry are just a few of the subspecialties that dentists can pursue. Over the next decade, there will likely be a 6% job growth for dentists.
Physician Assistant
A physician assistant (PA) works under the supervision of a licensed physician. PAs may conduct physical examinations, make diagnoses, and prescribe drugs with the help of their extensive medical training. A PA’s obligations may further extend to the following:
- Assisting in surgeries and other procedures
- Counseling patients on preventative care and healthy lifestyle choices
- Serving as a primary healthcare provider in rural or underserved areas
PAs have a special role in the healthcare team because they can perform many of the same tasks as doctors but often have more flexibility. When compared to doctors, they have more time to spend with patients, allowing them to develop meaningful bonds and deliver personalized care.
To become a PA, you must complete a physician assistant education program and pass a certification exam. These programs include anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical medicine coursework. According to BLS, employment of PAs is expected to increase by 28% between 2021 and 2031.
Conclusion
Whether you are interested in direct patient care or support services, there are many rewarding careers in healthcare. With the right education and training, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and enjoy a fulfilling and lucrative career.