Last Updated on Mar 5, 2020 by James W
Although the United States has an unemployment rate holding steady at 7.3%, the field of healthcare continues to increase in job security and job demand according to a recent projections overview by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, just last month alone healthcare employment increased by 33,000 jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports nearly 3 million more jobs will be added within the next few years. As a result of this increase, many people have chosen healthcare as their primary career focus when attending colleges and universities.
Medical Transcriptionists
Medical transcriptionists are one of the highest paying healthcare jobs which require only a year of healthcare career training. Applicants that go on to receive an associate’s degree, however, will improve their job qualifications. Doctors and other healthcare professionals use transcriptionists to formally document their orders and notes. This position requires:
- A thorough knowledge of medical terminology and dictation.
- Complete accuracy. One mistake and the patient’s life could be at risk.
There are some transcription positions available for those who wish to work from home. This makes transcription a popular choice for stay-at-home parents and college students.
Pharmacy Technicians
If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, a pharmacy is the perfect place for you. Pharmacy technicians perform administrative tasks, including drug dispensing, patient profiling, inventory management, and basic housekeeping tasks. By assisting the pharmacist with general tasks, the pharmacist is free to spend more time counseling patients and checking prescriptions for accuracy.
- Each state has its own regulations involving licensure and certification of pharmacy technicians.
- Some states require technicians to be licensed within the state, as well as nationally in order to practice in a pharmacy.
- Each technician should be able to fill prescriptions quickly and accurately while providing exceptional customer service.
- The ability to keep patient information confidential is vital.
Medical Assistants
Medical assistant training will undoubtedly lead to good prospects in the future. The training is hand-in-hand with the physician or physician’s aide in processing patients and consists of learning essential skills, such as measuring vital signs and documenting records. This position requires:
- Completion of a qualified technical program.
- A state certification and license, depending on the requirements of the specific state.
- Passion for helping people and improving their wellbeing.
- Ability to handle patients professionally and with care.
- A working knowledge of anatomy, physiology and medical terminology.
Phlebotomists
Those who are squeamish at the sight of blood may have a hard time becoming a phlebotomist; however, those that go on to become certified in phlebotomy will surely reap the rewards. This career option is known to pay quite well, as there is an extreme need for skilled phlebotomists. This position requires:
- A certification in phlebotomy from an accredited trade school.
- Complete knowledge of the vascular system, as well as a general knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
- An understanding of medical terminology, billing and coding.
Medical Billing and Coding
Medical billing and codin offers an option to work from home. These coding experts must be able to interpret doctor invoicing and translate it into a diagnostic code that the insurance will understand.
- Must be intensely accurate in order to bill each invoice correctly.
- Must obtain a certification from a successful trade school.
The field of healthcare continues to gain momentum as it moves into the future. If you want to be a part of a profession that has amazing prospects, consider becoming part of the medical field.
