According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of healthcare jobs will increase by 26 percent by 2022. Population growth, baby boomers turning 65, chronic conditions as well as changes in health insurance fuel the need for healthcare workers. Aside from physicians, the healthcare sector offers many opportunities.
Growth sectors in the healthcare industry
Hospitals are the main employers of health care workers, and the number of jobs in this arena and all jobs in health care will see an increase in the upcoming years. The trend is shifting to physician offices and home health care since hospital stays are decreasing due to high costs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctors’ offices are expected to add 1.2 million jobs while home healthcare jobs are expected to rise by 60 percent. Assisted living and nursing care facilities will add jobs as the population ages. Looking at some of the different healthcare jobs available might give you a better understanding of the opportunity that awaits you without a medical degree.
Dental Assistant
Dental assistant jobs are in high demand and the projected rate of growth is over 30 percent. Dental schools, community colleges and vocational schools offer training courses and a certificate. National certification, after passing the Dental Assisting National Board exam, is available. Dental assistants have varied responsibilities including preparing patients for dental procedures, assisting dentists and providing patients with instructions concerning dental hygiene. Licensing is offered in some states.
Nutritionists and Dietitians
Growth in this healthcare sector is expected to be above average, and the BLS projects a 21 percent job growth rate. Many people are conscious of the role diet plays in their lives, and doctors and hospitals rely on dietitians and nutritionists to help patients eat healthy. Other work settings include nursing homes and cafeterias while some dietitians and nutritionists maintain a solo practice. A college degree and post-graduate or extracurricular training during formal education is common. Some states require licensure.
Medical Assistant
Medical assistant jobs have a projected growth rate of 29 percent, according to BLS statistics. The responsibilities of this job vary and include performing administrative tasks, compiling and updating medical records, setting up lab tests and hospital admissions. In some settings, medical assistants might also process laboratory specimens and assist the doctor during patient exams. There are multiple training programs available, and certification is provided by the American Association of Medical Assistants.
Radiologic Technicians
Jobs in this field are growing rapidly. Most technicians work in a hospital environment, but some are employed in private practices. Programs generally lead to an associate’s degree with certification by an accredited institution. Some radiologic technicians specialize in MRI and CT technology.
Home Healthcare
The job outlook for home health workers is expected to grow by 48 percent, according to the BLS. This is due to the aging population is the United States and the decision by many older Americans to remain at home. In addition to caring for the elderly, home health workers care for those with cognitive difficulties, the disabled and those with chronic illnesses. While formal education in the field is not mandatory, certified agencies require training and completion of a testing program. some states provide training for home health aides, including modules aimed at infection control.
Physical Therapists
Physical therapists are in demand and work in hospitals, doctor’s offices as well as assisted living facilities. Rehabilitation is needed for accident injuries and post-surgical therapy. A growth rate of 36 percent is expected to result in over 73,500 jobs by 2022. Physical therapists require formal training and licensure.
Medical Sonographers
Medical sonographers use special equipment to do tests such as ultrasounds for a variety of purposes. Sonographers work in doctor’s offices and hospitals, and the job growth rate is expected to increase by 39 percent in the next few years, according to the BLS. Technicians need certification and training to work in this field.
How to find jobs
Using a job search site such as thejobnetwork lets you look for healthcare jobs in your area. After loading your profile, including your qualifications and preferences, this platform is able to match you with available positions. In addition, jobs are rated according to the extent with which the job matches what you want.
