The healthcare industry in the United States is a massive powerhouse of financial resources. With revenue in the billions just in the US, and reaching about eight trillion worldwide, the healthcare industry is one of the most profitable and the most necessary industries around today. There are thousands of jobs in the industry, and the good news is that not all of them require a doctorate and thousands of hours of study (not to mention thousands of dollars in school debt). Let’s take a look at a few ways that you can break into the healthcare industry and start your new career path today.
Find The Right Career Path
This is the first step, and the most important. Not everyone wants to be a nurse, doctor, surgeon, etc., and that’s ok! Those career paths can often take over a decade of training and schooling to get into the field, and not everyone has or wants to give a decade to such an endeavor. You aren’t stuck with these high-end career choices, when there are so many entry-level positions that can get you seated firmly in the industry without costing an arm and a leg.
First, take a look at what you want to spend on schooling. Can you afford the massive amount of money it takes to become a doctor? Surgeon? Specialist? Can you afford to take out loans? If not, then an entry-level path might be the better choice. Things like respiratory therapist, dental assistant, medical administrative assistant, and pharmacy tech make for great entry-level career paths.
You’ll also want to decide what you like/what you actually want to do. Maybe you don’t want to be on the frontlines of the industry, and instead, want to become a biller/coder. That’s ok, too, and there are plenty of programs that can train you for more behind-the-scenes positions if direct clinical care isn’t for you.
1. Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy techs play a vital role in helping with the daily operation of a pharmacy. They can work in retail pharmacies, mail-order pharmacies, long-term care facilities, hospitals, and more. The path you choose will depend on your experience and what you want to do. You can make a decent living as a pharmacy technician, with an average salary between $13-$16 per hour. The job outlook is good as well, and according to the BLS, the job market is expected to grow by about 4% through 2029.
Pharmacy technicians handle everything from filing paperwork to helping to prepare medications to placing orders and so much more. They play a vital role, and the job is an excellent entry-level choice for anyone looking to get into the industry quickly and affordably.
2. Medical Administrative Assistant
Doctor’s offices, hospitals, and other facilities need someone who can file paperwork, interact with patients, and answer phones. This technically falls under the category of “secretarial duties”, but it does require some specific training. After all, you’ll be working with patients and their personal medical data, which should adhere to strict privacy and security protocols.
Medical administrative assistants are some of the most in-demand medical professionals, and the education to become one is relatively short and sweet. You can earn a diploma and find work in just eleven months in many cases, or you can seek an associate’s degree in anywhere between 18-24 months.
3. Dental Assistant
If you prefer the study of dentistry, you can always pursue a career in dental assisting. The dental assistant is responsible for assisting the dentist in teeth cleaning, sanitizing rooms and surfaces, interacting with patients, and much more. You’ll be an important part of the team, and dental assistant classes won’t take more than two years to complete (in most cases). Some courses even offer work at your own pace models, so you can finish whenever you’re ready.
4. Medical Billing & Coding
For every operation, prescription, or physician’s order, there’s a specialized medical code that is used for the billing process. A biller/coder will translate official health documents into these billable “codes” for processing by insurance companies for payment. This is a crucial part of medical care, as many patients can’t possibly outright afford their medications and procedures. Ensuring proper coding and billing is a matter of extreme importance, and to obtain a certification, you just need to dedicate about one year of your time.
You’ll be operating behind-the-scenes as well, so you won’t be delivering direct care. However, you’ll still play an integral role in the healthcare process, and can go to work knowing that what you’re doing is meaningful and important.
5. CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)
A CNA is responsible for assisting LPN’s and RN’s with the everyday care of patients. This can mean changing bedding and clothing, delivering meals and medications, bathing, and much more. You’ll be in direct contact with patients, and administer care under the supervision of the RN. If you love helping people, are patient and compassionate, and want to be on the frontlines of the industry, this is a great place to start.