Health & Medicine

Today’s careers in healthcare and medicine range from hands-on medical jobs like family doctor and pediatrician, to specialist positions like a surgeon or cardiologist, to administrative jobs like medical coding or hospital administration. The management and administrative part of the healthcare industry represents a growth area for many medical careers. As the amount of patient information increases, hospitals and health clinics have a growing need for management of patient data, medical billing, and other administrative duties.

Medical technology provides an opportunity for those interested in technology and medicine to combine their interests into a rewarding career. Technician jobs in radiology, for example, allow technicians to help patients while working with the latest and most advanced equipment.

For people who truly enjoy healing patients and treating illnesses, the roles of physicians, nurses, and specialist doctors are still in demand as well. This includes doctors who treat physical ailments as well as therapists, psychologists, and others who specialize in mental health.

Those more interested in the “medicine” side of the health and medicine field may find satisfaction in working as an anesthesiologist, pharmacist, or pharmacy technician.

Modern health care is often administered by a team of doctors, including support staff like medical assistants, surgical technicians, and a number of other roles. As such, teamwork is an important part of most healthcare jobs. And, there’s room for a number of supporting roles in most medical situations – different training specialties and educational levels are valued.

The articles listed on this page describe dozens of jobs in healthcare and medicine. Each article explains the educational requirements, working conditions, job outlook, and average salary.

If you are considering a career in medicine, be sure to read our guides to medical school and dental school.

Job Descriptions and Careers, Career and Job Opportunities, Career Search, and Career Choices and Profiles

Acupuncturist Job Description, Career as an Acupuncturist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Minimum of some college plus additional training Salary: Median—$50,000 per year Employment Outlook: Good Acupuncturists are alternative health care providers who use procedures that originated in China more than two thousand years ago. American acupuncture incorporates medical traditions from China, Japan, Korea, and other countries. Acupuncture includes procedures …

3 minute read

Admitting Interviewer Job Description, Career as an Admitting Interviewer, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school Salary: Median—$11.94 per hour Employment Outlook: Good Admitting interviewers are also known as admitting clerks or patient representatives. They are usually the first employees that patients meet when entering a hospital. Admitting interviewers gather information that is required for patients' admission to the hospital and sign patients in to the…

2 minute read

Adult Day Care Coordinator Job Description, Career as a Adult Day Care Coordinator, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: High school diploma Median Salary: $9.00 per hour Job Prospects: Very good An adult day care coordinator is the liaison between the medical staff at a medical facility and the patients, who works in a coordination role for all relevant activities. Adult day care coordinators oversee the staff that cares for the elderly or mentally disabled who require round-the-c…

4 minute read

Advanced Practice Nurse Job Description, Career as a Advanced Practice Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced Degree in Nursing Salary Median: $57,280 annually Employment Outlook: Excellent Advanced practice nurses are Registered Nurses with advanced clinical education. They have better knowledge and skills compared to Registered Nurses, as well as broader scope of practice. Their primary duties revolve around planning, implementation, and evaluation of therapy required by…

2 minute read

Aerobics Instructor Job Description, Career as a Aerobics Instructor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Bachelor?s degree in health or fitness desired; certification required. Median Salary: $25,910 annually; varies widely Job Prospects: Excellent Aerobics instructors and fitness trainers lead and instruct individuals and groups through various exercise activities. They may work one-on-one offering insight, direction, and even motivation into workout routines. They…

5 minute read

AIDS Counselor Job Description, Career as an AIDS Counselor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Varies—see profile Salary: Median—$34,820 per year Employment Outlook: Varies—see profile AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a disorder of the immune system caused by infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). There is no cure for AIDS. Although research is ongoing, there is no vaccine that can protect people from infection. HIV is…

4 minute read

Allergist/Immunologist Job Description, Career as an Allergist/Immunologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree and specialized training Salary: Median? $228,622 annually Employment Outlook: Very Good An allergist/immunologist is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic and immunologic ailments. Such diseases can range from food allergy, medication allergy, chronic cold, bronchitis, or sinus infections, to asthma, allergic eye diseases,…

4 minute read

Allergist/Immunologist Job Description, Career as a Allergist/Immunologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Advanced degree and specialized training Salary: Median $228,622 annually Employment Outlook: Very Good An allergist/immunologist is a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic and immunologic ailments. Such diseases can range from food allergy, medication allergy, chronic cold, bronchitis, or sinus infections, to asthma, allergic eye diseases,…

4 minute read

Ambulance Driver Job Description, Career as an Ambulance Driver, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: License and training Salary: Median—$24,722 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Ambulance drivers and other ambulance personnel are often the first members of the medical team to reach a person in need of medical attention. Ambulance drivers operate vehicles that carry sick people and accident victims to hospitals. Ambulance drivers work for hospitals and for poli…

2 minute read

Anesthesiologist Job Description, Career as an Anesthesiologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, medical school, and specialized medical training Salary: Median—$321,686 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Anesthesiologists are physicians who focus on surgical patients and pain relief. They administer anesthetics, which are medicines to prevent patients from feeling pain and sensations; closely monitor patients' vital signs during surgery and …

6 minute read

Aromatherapist Job Description, Career as a Aromatherapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Certification Median Salary: $30,000 annually Job Prospects: Very Good Aromatherapists are a relatively new career path for many people. As the push for healthier and more natural living continues, so does this thriving career. Aromatherapists work closely with various fragrant scents to provide a natural form of healing. This more natural and holistic form of he…

4 minute read

Audiologist Job Description, Career as an Audiologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Master's or doctoral degree Salary: Median—$51,470 per year Employment Outlook: Good Audiologists help people who have hearing, balance, and related ear problems. These problems may be a result of trauma at birth, viral infections, genetic disorders, exposure to loud noise, certain medications, or aging. Using various types of testing equipment, audiologists m…

2 minute read

Ayurvedic Doctor/Ayurvedic Practitioner Job Description, Career as a Ayurvedic Doctor/Ayurvedic Practitioner, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Specialized training. Ayurvedic practitioners study various medical fields depending upon their specialization. Salary: Median? $160,000 annually Employment Outlook: Good Ayurveda is a holistic system of traditional medicine that originated more than 5,000 years ago in India. This method of healing is used as a form of alternative medicine in various parts of the world. Tho…

3 minute read

Biofeedback Therapist Job Description, Career as a Biofeedback Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Bachelor?s degree from an accredited college. Salary: Median? $57,000 annually Employment Outlook:? Excellent Biofeedback therapists are physical therapists who use the biofeedback form of treatment technique to help patients improve their health by gaining control over involuntary things like muscle tension and heart rate. Individuals adopting the biofeedback process can …

4 minute read

Biomedical Equipment Technician Job Description, Career as a Biomedical Equipment Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$17.90 per hour Employment Outlook: Good Biomedical equipment technicians specialize in the use, maintenance, and repair of medical equipment such as heart-lung machines, dialysis machines, medical imaging machines, and defibrillators. Unlike electrocardiograph and electroencephalograph technicians, who specialize in one type …

3 minute read

Body Therapist Job Description, Career as a Body Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Body Therapist Education and Training Professional Certificate Average Salary $69,000 per year or approximately $15.36 per hour, depending on tips Job Outlook Very good Body therapy, otherwise known as massage therapy, is a form of natural healing, relaxation and body rejuvenation. Body therapists work to heal ailments in patients bodies through pressure, massage, acupuncture or through the use of…

5 minute read

Cardiac Echo Technician Job Description, Career as a Cardiac Echo Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Associate?s degree Average Salary $39,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Cardiac echo technicians use noninvasive testing equipment that perform procedures on patients such as ultrasounds to photograph and diagnose diseases in the cardiac organs of the body, primarily the heart valves, chambers and vessels. Cardiac echo techs also perform stress test procedures on patients w…

3 minute read

Cardiac Monitor Technician Job Description, Career as a Cardiac Monitor Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$26,513 per year Employment Outlook: Poor Cardiac monitor technicians check the heart rhythm patterns of patients to detect abnormal pattern variations. They usually work in the intensive care or cardiac care units of hospitals. These technicians are responsible for reviewing patients' records to determine normal heart …

2 minute read

Cardiac Perfusionist Job Description, Career as a Cardiac Perfusionist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College degree plus specialized training Salary: Median—$96,144 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Cardiac perfusionists set up and operate heart-lung machines, which take over the functions of a patient's heart and lungs during heart surgery. The word "perfusion" means to pump a liquid into an organ or tissue, usually via blood vessels. In t…

2 minute read

Cardiology Technologist Job Description, Career as a Cardiology Technologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$38,690 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Cardiology technologists work in hospital cardiology departments, cardiac rehabilitation centers, clinics, doctors' offices, or medical schools. They help doctors diagnose and treat disorders of the heart and blood vessels. Cardiology technologists specialize in invasive pr…

4 minute read

Child Life Specialist Job Description, Career as a Child Life Specialist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Bachelor degree Median Salary: $43,665 annually Job Prospects: Good Child life specialists support and nurture children and their families through the emotional and physical aspects of hospitalization. They work hand-in-hand with the medical team to provide the children and their families the support they need in such an emotionally demanding predicament. Child l…

4 minute read

Chiropractor Job Description, Career as a Chiropractor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree and license Salary: Median—$69,910 per year Employment Outlook: Good Chiropractors are alternative health care practitioners who diagnose and treat health problems associated with the muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems. Chiropractic philosophy holds that interference with these systems impairs the body's normal functions and lowers its res…

3 minute read

Clinical Laboratory Technician Job Description, Career as a Clinical Laboratory Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$30,840 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Clinical laboratory technicians are also known as medical technicians or medical laboratory technicians. They conduct laboratory tests that aid in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Clinical laboratory technicians are supervised by clinical laboratory technologist…

4 minute read

Clinical Laboratory Technologist Job Description, Career as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Bachelor's degree plus training Salary: Average—$45,730 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Clinical laboratory technologists perform laboratory tests that are crucial to the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. They look for evidence of the presence of illnesses and parasites, identify allergic reactions and changes in body chemistry, and type a…

3 minute read

Community Health Nurse Job Description, Career as a Community Health Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Master of Science in Nursing and certification Median Salary: $51,000 annually Job Prospects: Excellent A community health nurse dedicates her nursing profession to helping those less fortunate. Health nurses serve the general public in facilities such as health clinics. They are an integral part of serving the community of people that can?t afford medical servic…

5 minute read

Cosmetic Surgeon Job Description, Career as a Cosmetic Surgeon, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Advanced degree and specialized training. Salary: Median? $211,000 annually Employment Outlook:? Very good Cosmetic surgeons are specialized surgeons who correct or improve the appearance of physical features. Liposuction, rhinoplasty (remodeling of nose), blepharoplasty (removal of slack skin around eyelids), rhytidectomy (face lifts), mammoplasty (modification in the sha…

3 minute read

Counselors Job Description, Career as a Counselors, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree Salary: Median? $47,530 per year Employment Outlook: Good The primary responsibility of counselors is to provide assistance to people suffering from mental health, personal or family problems, and even educational or career troubles. There are many areas in which a counselor can specialize, and the job role is defined in accordance with one?s field of expert…

4 minute read

Critical Care Nurse Job Description, Career as a Critical Care Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Specialized training Salary: Median? $61,983 annually Employment Outlook:? Good Critical care nurses look after patients suffering from serious, acute, and complex ailments or injuries. They specialize in dealing with patients who need to be closely monitored. Critical care nurses are also trained to adhere to medications or therapies that have complex protocols. In additi…

4 minute read

Dental Assistant Job Description, Career as a Dental Assistant, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school or dental assisting program Salary: Median—$13.62 per hour Employment Outlook: Excellent Dental assistants perform a number of duties in a dentist's office. Some of their tasks may be clerical. Dental assistants with office duties schedule appointments, keep records, receive payments from patients, and order supplies. When patients come to the offi…

3 minute read

Dental Hygienist Job Description, Career as a Dental Hygienist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Two-year college; license Salary: Median—$28.05 per hour Employment Outlook: Excellent Dental hygienists are licensed professionals who help dentists provide treatment and care of the mouth, teeth, and gums. State laws limit the duties that hygienists may perform. Hygienists examine patients' teeth and gums. They remove stains and tartar, a hard, yellow deposi…

3 minute read

Dental Laboratory Technician Job Description, Career as a Dental Laboratory Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$14.93 per hour Employment Outlook: Fair Dental laboratory technicians fill prescriptions from dentists. They construct and repair dentures (false teeth), bridges, crowns, and other artificial tooth replacement devices (prosthetics) that dentists order for patients. They work from the dentist's written instructions and …

3 minute read

Dental and Medical Secretary Job Description, Career as a Dental and Medical Secretary, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$26,540 per year Employment Outlook: Good Dental secretaries and medical secretaries perform clerical and secretarial duties for dentists and physicians, respectively. They take shorthand, type, and file patients' records. To do their jobs, they must have an understanding of the procedures and terms that physicians and …

3 minute read

Dentist Job Description, Career as a Dentist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College and dental college Salary: Median—$129,920 per year Employment Outlook: Good Dentists are health professionals who take care of the teeth, gums, and supporting bones of the mouth. They help their patients keep their teeth and gums healthy. They also treat diseased teeth and gums. Dentists sometimes detect general diseases of the body that can affect the condi…

3 minute read

Dermatologist Job Description, Career as a Dermatologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, medical school, and specialty training Salary: Median—$193,870 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Dermatologists are physicians who diagnose and treat conditions and diseases of the skin, hair, and nails, such as fungal infections, acne (pimples), birth-marks, skin cancer, eczema (itching, scaling skin), warts, and psoriasis (red patches of skin covered …

2 minute read

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Job Description, Career as a Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Training in accredited program preferred Salary Median?$57,160 per year Employment Outlook Good Diagnostic medical sonographers use diagnostic imaging to help physicians diagnose ailing patients. They use special equipment that projects sound waves into areas of the patient?s body to generate an image for assessment and for diagnosing certain medical conditions. In addition,…

3 minute read

Dialysis Technician Job Description, Career as a Dialysis Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school Salary: $25,682 to $32,413 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Dialysis technicians work with people whose kidneys no longer work properly or at all. These technicians, who are sometimes called hemodialysis technicians or patient care technicians (PCTs), operate machines that remove wastes, salt, and extra water from patients' blood while keeping safe …

2 minute read

Directory—Institutions Offering Career Training

The information in this directory was generated from the IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) database of the U.S. Department of Education. It includes only regionally or nationally accredited institutions offering postsecondary occupational training in health care. Because college catalogs and directories of colleges and universities are readily available elsewhere, this directo…

161 minute read

Dispensing Optician Job Description, Career as a Dispensing Optician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$27,950 per year Employment Outlook: Good Dispensing opticians, sometimes called prescription opticians or ophthalmic dispensers, examine written prescriptions to determine the specifications of lenses. They recommend eyeglass frames, lenses, and lens coatings after considering the prescription and the customer's occupa…

3 minute read

Domestic Violence Prevention Counselor Job Description, Career as a Domestic Violence Prevention Counselor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Bachelor?s degree Average Salary $43,000 Job Outlook Very good Domestic violence counselors work with families, usually women and children, who are being physically, sexually or emotionally abused by other family members. A counselor will often observe family habits, speak with each family member one-on-one, and help find living arrangements for family members who can no lon…

5 minute read

Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist Job Description, Career as a Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: At least five years of surgical residency Salary Median: $205,000 per year Employment Outlook: Good Ear, nose, and throat specialists, also known as otolaryngologists or ENT specialists, are medical doctors responsible for surgical and medical treatment of the ears, nose, and throat, as well as the related head and neck areas. Specialized skills of otolaryngologists include…

3 minute read

Electroneurodiagnostic Technologist Job Description, Career as an Electroneurodiagnostic Technologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$44,621 per year Employment Outlook: Fair Electroneurodiagnostic (END) technology enables health care professionals to record and study the electrical activity of the brain and nervous system. END technologists use a variety of techniques and instruments to record electrical activity arising from a patient's brain, spin…

3 minute read

Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic Job Description, Career as an Emergency Medical Technician/Paramedic, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$25,310 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) offer immediate aid to victims of accidents or critical illnesses. They may provide their services at the scene of the crisis, en route to the hospital, and in the emergency room. Usually an EMT's first contact with a victim is at the sc…

4 minute read

Emergency Nurse Job Description, Career as a Emergency Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Bachelor degree with a registered nurse license Median Salary: $57,280 annually Job Prospects: Excellent An emergency nurse handles patients in trauma situations. This particular type of nurse is trained not only in patient care, but in how to deal with and assess a patient in an emergency setting. This is a specialization that registered nurses can elect and is …

5 minute read

Endodontist Job Description, Career as a Endodontist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Specialized license Median Salary: $100,000 annually Job Prospects: Good Although they perform many specialized services, endodontists are most known for root canals. This is a specialized form of dentistry where endodontists provide dental care to their patients. They work with patients through consultations for specialized services, and then perform the procedu…

4 minute read

Enologist Job Description, Career as a Enologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Bachelor degree Median Salary: $46,910 annually Job Prospects: Fair Enologists work in overseeing the production of wine. These are experts in everything that embodies wine, who ensure production takes place in a satisfactory manner to produce a good product. They inspect grapes and evaluate the crops to determine when wine production is appropriate. Enologists d…

4 minute read

Environmental Health Specialist Job Description, Career as an Environmental Health Specialist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Varies—see profile Salary: $37,300 to $57,551 per year Employment Outlook: Good Environmental health specialists monitor health and safety conditions in residential, industrial, commercial, and recreational settings. A person who works as an environmental health specialist may also be called an environmental health or safety inspector, or a health and safety speciali…

4 minute read

Epidemiologist Job Description, Career as an Epidemiologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, graduate degree, and possibly medical school Salary: Median—$54,800 per year Employment Outlook: Good Epidemiologists are medical scientists who investigate and describe factors that influence the development of disease, disability, and other health outcomes. They formulate means for prevention and control. Epidemiologists focus either on research or on clin…

2 minute read

General Surgery Technologist Job Description, Career as a General Surgery Technologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Associate?s degree and certification Average Salary $40,000 per year Job Outlook Very good General surgery technologists often work in delivery rooms, hospitals, physician?s clinics, or outpatient treatment centers to assist doctors performing a variety of surgical procedures. Technologists are usually the one to prepare a patient for surgery by shaving, disinfecting and was…

4 minute read

Genetic Counselor Job Description, Career as a Genetic Counselor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Master degree and certification Median Salary: $58,184 annually Job Prospects: Good A genetic counselor works with patients to fully understand their family history. They work with couples who want children to understand their risks of certain genetic disorders. They work with patients to understand certain genetic disorders and diseases pertaining to them. They …

4 minute read

Geriatric Nurse Job Description, Career as a Geriatric Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree in geriatric nursing or certification in geriatric care Salary Median: $70,000 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Geriatric nurses are specialized in providing health care to the elderly. They develop and implement treatment plans for older adults, and help them deal with chronic illnesses like respiratory disorders, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, hypertens…

4 minute read

Geriatric Psychiatrist Job Description, Career as a Geriatric Psychiatrist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Advanced degree in medicine and specialized training in geriatric psychiatry. Salary: Median? $154,050 annually Employment Outlook:? Very good Geriatric psychiatrists treat mental illnesses of the elderly. They combine their knowledge of psychology and sociology to provide specialized care. Geriatric psychiatrists consider the medical conditions of their patients before tr…

3 minute read

Geriatrician Job Description, Career as a Geriatrician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, medical school, and specialty training Salary: Median—$166,420 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Geriatricians are physicians who work primarily with the elderly. Although they address their patients' multiple medical problems and chronic illnesses, geriatricians focus primarily on quality of life and functional ability. Geriatricians also determ…

2 minute read

Getting Into Health - PLANNING YOUR CAREER, EVALUATE SPECIFIC JOBS, FINDING JOB OPPORTUNITIES, MARKETING YOURSELF, PRESENTING YOURSELF INAN INTERVIEW

Good jobs do not magically appear. Anyone who has been in the job market knows that landing the right job takes planning, preparation, perseverance, and patience. This is true whether you are looking for your first job, reentering the job market, trying to get a new job, or planning a mid-career change. This essay is designed to guide you through the process of finding a job, from helping you defi…

44 minute read

Grief Therapist Job Description, Career as a Grief Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced Degree Salary: Median? $43,000 annually Employment Outlook: Good Grief therapist is a professional counselor who helps individuals come to terms with their losses and cope with their grief. Failure, death, loss, or any kind of social, spiritual, and psychological trauma comes within the purview of grief therapy. A grief therapist uses specialized techniques to trea…

3 minute read

Health Advocate Job Description, Career as a Health Advocate, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Bachelor degree Median Salary: $50,000 annually Job Prospects: Very good Health advocates promote healthier living and educate people on the best ways to achieve healthy lifestyles. They work for a university, government body, or any number of environments, and are often responsible for identifying potential threats to public health. They work in a variety of rol…

4 minute read

Health and Regulatory Inspector Job Description, Career as a Health and Regulatory Inspector, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training State certification Average Salary $64,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Health and regulatory inspectors usually work for the government and inspect workplaces to make sure they are safe and sanitary for employees and customers. They inspect equipment, machinery, and other details within the work environment to make sure they pass safety and sanitation regulations put in p…

4 minute read

Health Care Manager Job Description, Career as a Health Care Manager, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Bachelor?s degree Average Salary $67,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Health care managers work for hospitals, retirement homes, mental health institutions, home health care agencies, and various outpatient facilities. Managers do not specialize in one specific type of health care, but instead manage all the employees working at a specific facility and making sure they are…

4 minute read

Health Educator Job Description, Career as a Health Educator, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Master's degree or higher Salary: Median—$52,639 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Health educators plan, organize, and direct health education programs for communities and groups such as civic organizations and labor unions. They work with other health professionals, civic groups, and community officials to determine health needs, develop desirable healt…

3 minute read

Health and Safety Engineer Job Description, Career as a Health and Safety Engineer, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College Salary: Median—$63,730 per year Employment Outlook: Fair Health and safety engineers plan, implement, and coordinate safety programs to prevent or correct unsafe environmental working conditions. They promote workplace and product safety by identifying and monitoring potential hazards to people or property. They then apply an advanced knowledge of industrial …

3 minute read

Herbalist Job Description, Career as a Herbalist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: General knowledge; no formal training required Median Salary: $55 per hour Job Prospects: Good Herbalists work with a wide variety of plants to determine appropriate treatments for patients. In this profession, alternative methods of healing and natural forms of medication are used. Herbalists keep up with the healing properties of plants and herbs to treat their…

4 minute read

Histological Technician Job Description, Career as a Histological Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Associate degree Median Salary: $45,617 annually Job Prospects: Very good A histological technician prepares slides of body tissue to be used for observation. They work in conjunction with a healthcare team or medical staff to ensure the tissue is obtained in the appropriate manner, and work on the necessary steps of preparation. They help the rest of the lab sta…

4 minute read

Home Health Aide Job Description, Career as a Home Health Aide, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Varies—see profile Salary: Median—$8.81 per hour Employment Outlook: Excellent Home health aides provide health care services in homes. Their clients include the elderly or people with long-term illnesses or disabilities. Home health aides work for hospitals and health care agencies. Health aides provide a variety of services for their clients. They give them …

3 minute read

Hospice Care Aides Job Description, Career as a Hospice Care Aides, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: High school diploma preferred Median Salary: $9.34 per hour Job Prospects: Excellent A hospice care aide helps individuals unable of helping themselves. These aides travel to the patient?s home and help them perform activities required for daily life. Hospice care aides are often associated with the elderly or disabled who are unable to take care of themselves, s…

5 minute read

Hospice Worker Job Description, Career as a Hospice Worker, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Bachelor?s degree and state certification Average Salary $60,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Hospice workers, also known as palliative medicine workers, are typically licensed nurses who are trained to work with people suffering terminal illness or who need major assistance while living in their home. Most hospice workers visit patients in their homes and stay with them f…

4 minute read

Human Service Worker Job Description, Career as a Human Service Worker, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Varies ? see below Average Salary Varies ? see below Job Outlook Very good Human services is a broad field that seeks to meet the needs of humans through the use of therapies, disciplines, remedies to problems and other techniques that are designed to improve their overall quality of life. Human service workers often work in retirement homes, halfway houses, alcoholism and d…

4 minute read

Hypnotherapist Job Description, Career as a Hypnotherapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Certification and graduate level degree Median Salary: $64,000 annually Job Prospects: Very good A hypnotherapist works with patients to heal and treat their medical conditions, problems, or dependencies. These are trained medical professionals who work with their patients to help them cope with and get rid of any pain they may be suffering from, either mentally …

4 minute read

Kinesiologist Job Description, Career as a Kinesiologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Bachelor?s degree in kinesiology. Salary: Median? $56,980 annually Employment Outlook: ? Very Good Kinesiology is a natural health care process that entails the thorough study of mechanics and anatomy of the human body. Kinesiologists specialize in the analysis of human body movement. They monitor human muscle movement to alleviate muscle ailments through the application of…

4 minute read

Laboratory Animal Care Worker Job Description, Career as a Laboratory Animal Care Worker, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school Salary: Median—$7.86 per hour Employment Outlook: Very good Laboratory animal care workers take care of animals that are used in scientific research. Laboratory animal care workers include assistant laboratory animal technicians, laboratory animal technicians, and laboratory animal technologists. Scientists use laboratory animals for a variety of purposes…

2 minute read

Laboratory Testing Technician Job Description, Career as a Laboratory Testing Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Associate?s degree Average Salary $53,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Laboratory testing technicians work in medical and clinical laboratories that detect diseases and perform tests and experiments to create treatments and diagnosis information. Technicians work in the lab to assist technologists, who are qualified to actually perform the tests. Technicians will collect s…

4 minute read

Legal Nurse Consultant Job Description, Career as a Legal Nurse Consultant, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Bachelor?s degree and certification Average Salary $60,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Legal nurse consultants conduct research in medical environments, review medical records, and prepare medical reports for attorneys who are representing a patient looking for legal care in regards to their health care. Some legal nurse consultants work part time in the legal field and c…

5 minute read

Licensed Practical Nurse Job Description, Career as a Licensed Practical Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training; license Salary: Median—$33,970 per year Employment Outlook: Good Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) help physicians and registered nurses (RNs) care for patients. They have the technical knowledge to perform routine nursing duties, but they may also make appointments, maintain patient records, and perform basic clerical duties. Their work all…

4 minute read

Looking Into Health - FROM MAGIC TOMODERN MEDICINE, THE TECHNOLOGY REVOLUTION, THE PEOPLE DOING THE WORK

To be healthy, wealthy, and wise, as the old saying puts it, is the goal of nearly everyone. Perhaps it's no accident that health comes first, for getting and staying well is the basis for enjoying everything else life has to offer. Health care workers in the United States have the privilege of providing Americans with the most valued kind of care, that which preserves and prolongs their ve…

37 minute read

Massage Therapist Job Description, Career as a Massage Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Vocational/technical school Salary: Median—$15.36 per hour Employment Outlook: Good Massage therapists massage their customers for therapeutic and remedial reasons. They also administer other kinds of body conditioning. Massage therapists are employed by community service associations, health clubs, resorts, retail centers, and country clubs. Some are self-employed a…

3 minute read

Medical Assistant Job Description, Career as a Medical Assistant, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$24,610 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Medical assistants aid physicians by performing administrative duties and handling basic clinical tasks. They work in doctors' offices, hospitals, and medical clinics, helping to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently. The job description of a medical assistant va…

4 minute read

Medical Ethicist Job Description, Career as a Medical Ethicist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Bachelor?s degree in bioethics, medical ethics, or medical law. Salary: Median? $46,672 annually Employment Outlook:? Good The role of a medical ethicist is being considered as one of increasing importance in the field of health care. Medical ethics is a primary branch of applied ethics, and medical ethicists study the application of moral values and judgments in the field…

3 minute read

Medical and Health Services Manager Job Description, Career as a Medical and Health Services Manager, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College plus graduate degree Salary: Median—$67,430 per year Employment Outlook: Good Health care is one of the largest sectors of the American economy, and it is undergoing radical changes in order to meet the needs of a growing and aging population. Like other complicated businesses, health care institutions require skilled managers. Currently, more than one-half o…

5 minute read

Medical Illustrator Job Description, Career as a Medical Illustrator, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Master's degree Salary: Median—$59,000 per year Employment Outlook: Good Medical illustrators are artists who work in the field of medicine. They make detailed drawings for textbooks and other publications used by physicians and students. They may illustrate the steps surgeons take during operations or draw pictures of both healthy and diseased body parts to s…

3 minute read

Medical Physicist Job Description, Career as a Medical Physicist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree Salary: Median—$124,532 per year Employment Outlook: Good Medical physicists apply the principles and theories of physics to all aspects of medicine. In hospitals, they help plan radiation treatments for cancer patients using external radiation beams or internal radioactive sources. They provide images of internal organs and determine metabolic rates …

2 minute read

Medical Records and Health Information Technician Job Description, Career as a Medical Records and Health Information Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Community college Salary: Median—$25,590 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Most medical records and health information technicians work in hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. They most often work with computerized record systems and maintain hospital reports on patients. Medical records and health information technicians keep track of patients' medical…

4 minute read

Medical Scientists Job Description, Career as a Medical Scientists, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Post Graduate education Salary: Median- $61,680 per year Employment Outlook: Good Medical scientists are basically professionals who study disease processes. They conduct research about human diseases, with an aim to improve human health. Apart from laboratory research, medical scientists can also be engaged in clinical investigations, technical writing, and drug applicatio…

4 minute read

Medical Transcriptionist Job Description, Career as a Medical Transcriptionist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Postsecondary training in medical transcription preferred Salary Median?$14.40 per hour Employment Outlook Good Medical transcriptionists are formally trained to receive dictation from physicians and other healthcare professionals and transcribe them into different medical documents. To create the documents, medical transcriptionists listen to recordings using a headset and …

4 minute read

Myotherapist Job Description, Career as a Myotherapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Associate?s degree and certification Average Salary $61,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Myotherapists work with patients to relieve pain, tension and muscle spasms by applying pressure to trigger points throughout the body. Trigger points are specific places in the muscles that respond by stretching, loosening and inflicting temporary shock or pain in order to release pai…

4 minute read

Neonatal Nurse Job Description, Career as a Neonatal Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Bachelor?s degree in nursing and certification Salary Median: $100,904 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Neonatal nurses care for newborns for the first 28 days of the babies? lives, the children?s most vulnerable stage. Nurses specialized in this field are required to focus not just on healthy infants, but also on ill or premature babies. They monitor the condition of…

4 minute read

Neurologist Job Description, Career as a Neurologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Medical education, internship, and specialty training. Average Salary: $178,564 per year Job Outlook: Very good A neurologist is a physician who has been trained for diagnosing, treating, and managing the ongoing care of patients suffering from disorders of the nervous system. Neurologists are able to treat problems of the central, autonomous, and peripheral nervous systems…

5 minute read

Nuclear Medicine Technologist Job Description, Career as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Varies—see profile Salary: Median—$56,450 per year Employment Outlook: Fair Nuclear medicine technologists help in the diagnosis and treatment of certain diseases. They administer radiopharmaceuticals (radioactive drugs) to patients and monitor the concentration levels of the drugs in the patient's body. Technologists work directly with patients under t…

3 minute read

Nurse Midwife Job Description, Career as a Nurse Midwife, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: License or Completion of Nursing School Average Salary: $76,400 Annually Job Outlook: Very Good A nurse midwife provides support and guidance throughout the birthing process. Though they have been around for years, midwives have only recently gained attention. Many women are opting for either natural births or births at home, and this is where a nurse midwife can be of grea…

6 minute read

Nurse Practitioner Job Description, Career as a Nurse Practitioner, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Training/Educational Requirements: Must be a registered nurse; nurse practitioner license required Median Salary: $82,590 annually Job Prospects: Very good Nurse practitioners often work as the initial point of entry for a patient. They have extensive experience and possess a specialized advanced degree allowing them to diagnose and treat patient conditions. Oftentimes a nurse practitioner works a…

4 minute read

Nursing Aide and Orderly Job Description, Career as a Nursing Aide and Orderly, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school Salary: Average—$10.09 per hour Employment Outlook: Very good Nursing aides and orderlies help nurses care for patients by doing routine tasks. They help keep patients comfortable and tend to their basic needs. Aides and orderlies generally spend most of their time with patients, carrying meal trays to them, answering call lights when patients signal for …

3 minute read

Obstetrician/Gynecologist Job Description, Career as a Obstetrician/Gynecologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Advanced degree and specialized training in obstetrics and gynecology. Salary: Median? $192,780 annually Employment Outlook:? Very good Obstetricians are physicians who have specialized training in pregnancy management, prenatal care, labor, and pueperium. Gynecologists are physicians who are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the female reprodu…

3 minute read

Occupational Health and Safety Specialist Job Description, Career as an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College Salary: Median—$51,570 per year Employment Outlook: Good Also known as occupational health and safety inspectors, occupational health and safety specialists promote health and safety within a work environment. They analyze workplaces and design initiatives to control, eliminate, and prevent disease caused by chemical, physical, radiological, or biological age…

3 minute read

Occupational Therapist Job Description, Career as an Occupational Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Master's degree Salary: Median—$54,660 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Occupational therapists (OTs) help people who have physical, mental, or emotional impairments improve their ability to perform routine tasks at both home and work. They help patients improve their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities or compensate for permanent loss of funct…

2 minute read

Occupational Therapist Assistant Job Description, Career as an Occupational Therapist Assistant, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Varies—see profile Salary: Median—$38,430 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Occupational therapist assistants, also known as occupational therapy assistants, provide rehabilitative services to people with mental, emotional, physical, or developmental impairments. They work under the supervision of occupational therapists. Many occupational therapist assis…

2 minute read

Oncological Nurse Job Description, Career as a Oncological Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Degree in nursing and advanced training in oncology. Salary: Median? $61,463 annually Employment Outlook:? Good Oncological nurses handle patients who have, or are at the risk of developing cancer. They act as educators, administrators, and researchers in the field of cancer treatment, detection, and prevention. They also provide palliative and rehabilitative care. Oncolog…

3 minute read

Oncologist Job Description, Career as a Oncologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Advanced degree, specialized training Salary: Median? $257,000 annually Employment Outlook:? Good Physicians who inspect, diagnose, and treat cancerous tumors are known as oncologists. They may be specialists in the field of medical oncology, gynecological oncology, pediatric oncology, radiation oncology, surgical oncology, or hematology. Medical oncologists use chemothera…

3 minute read

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Job Description, Career as an Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school plus training Salary: Median—$11.40 per hour Employment Outlook: Fair Ophthalmic laboratory technicians prepare eyeglass lenses or contact lenses from an eye doctor's (optometrist's or ophthalmologist's) prescription. Some make precision lenses for cameras, microscopes, telescopes, and military equipment. Ophthalmic laboratory technic…

2 minute read

Ophthalmologist Job Description, Career as an Ophthalmologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, medical school, and specialized medical training Salary: Median—$199,423 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Ophthalmologists are physicians who diagnose and treat diseases of the eye, including glaucoma and cataracts; vision problems such as nearsightedness; and eye injuries. Optometrists and family doctors often refer patients with serious eye condition…

2 minute read

Optometric Assistant Job Description, Career as an Optometric Assistant, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school Salary: $12,000 to $30,000 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Optometric assistants perform routine tasks in optometrists' offices. Their work enables optometrists to devote their time to patient care that requires specialized training. Optometric assistants do clerical work, such as bookkeeping and scheduling appointments. They also help the optometr…

3 minute read

Optometrist Job Description, Career as an Optometrist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College plus optometry school Salary: Median—$88,410 per year Employment Outlook: Good Optometrists examine eyes and treat vision problems, usually by prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses, vision therapy, or rehabilitation programs. They also prescribe medicines to treat some eye diseases and allergies. Optometrists examine patients' eyes with several inst…

3 minute read

Oriental Medicine Practitioner Job Description, Career as a Oriental Medicine Practitioner, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Bachelor?s degree and certification Average Salary $61,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Oriental medicine practitioners use forms of acupuncture and treatment through the Chinese concept of ?qi,? which means energy. Oriental medicine treats a variety of ailments including headaches, back pain, arthritis, or other illnesses by identifying patterns of imbalance within a body…

4 minute read

Orthodontist Job Description, Career as a Orthodontist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree and licensing in orthodontics Salary Median: $120,696 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Orthodontists examine oral cavity anomalies and dental malocclusions and treat such conditions. They are primarily responsible for realigning, or straightening, teeth and jaws by using orthodontic retainers and braces. Orthodontists study the medical and dental histo…

3 minute read

Orthopedic Surgeon Job Description, Career as a Orthopedic Surgeon, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Doctorate degree Average Salary $339,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Orthopedic surgeons treat most muscle and skeletal problems including arthritis, congenital deformities, or trauma injuries. They provide medical care by performing physical exams, designing treatment and therapeutic plans, and keeping track of patient progress to determine what needs to be done. They of…

4 minute read

Orthoptist Job Description, Career as an Orthoptist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Bachelor's degree plus training Salary: Average—$45,000 to $50,000 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Orthoptists treat imbalances of the muscles of the eye or the nerves that serve those muscles. Many of their patients have amblyopia—commonly called lazy eye—or strabismus—known as cross-eye. Orthoptists also treat vision problems that…

2 minute read

Orthotist and Prosthetist Job Description, Career as an Orthotist and Prosthetist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Bachelor's degree Salary: Median—$59,540 per year Employment Outlook: Good Orthotists and prosthetists help patients use damaged parts of their bodies or replace parts that patients have lost to accidents or illnesses. Orthotists fit braces to help support parts of the body or to correct malformations. Prosthetists fit artificial limbs. Working with doctors&#x…

2 minute read

Osteopathic Physician Job Description, Career as an Osteopathic Physician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, osteopathic medical college, and specialized training Salary: Median—$156,010 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Osteopathic physicians practice a system of health care known as osteopathy, which is based on the idea that health is closely related to the structure of the body. They specialize in a treatment called manipulative therapy in which they use t…

3 minute read

Pediatrician Job Description, Career as a Pediatrician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Medical Degree Average Salary: $142,585 Annually Job Outlook: Very Good Pediatricians are medical doctors who specialize in treating children. They may work with children from birth to college age, as their specialty is focused on the youth. They work to treat their illnesses and ensure that they are provided with a clean bill of health. Though patient care is a big part of…

4 minute read

Pedorthist Job Description, Career as a Pedorthist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Associate?s degree and certification Average Salary $39,000 per year Job Outlook Good Pedorthists are certified health care professionals who are trained to fabricate, fit, adjust and modify devices on patients that prevent painful or even disabling conditions of the foot or ankle. The pedorthist will identify the specific cause or pain of the patient?s condition, perform x-…

4 minute read

Periodontist Job Description, Career as a Periodontist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: PhD Average Salary: $95,000 Annually Job Outlook: Very Good Periodontology is a dental specialty, and therefore periodontists are required a certain level of expertise. At the core, they work on diagnosing and treating health issues with the gums, but their job is far more involved than that. They work to treat any gum conditions such as gingivitis, but their job becomes fa…

4 minute read

Personal and Home Care Aide Job Description, Career as a Personal and Home Care Aide, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training On-the-job training or formal training Salary Median?$8.54 per hour Employment Outlook Excellent Personal and home care aides?also called homemakers, caregivers, personal attendants, and companions ?work with a diverse group of elderly, disabled, ill, or mentally disabled clients. Their main duty is to provide extensive personal care, as well as home care to their clients. D…

3 minute read

Pharmaceutical Sales Representative Job Description, Career as a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Two to four years of college and on-the-job training Salary: Median—$60,130 per year Employment Outlook: Good Pharmaceutical sales representatives are employed by drug companies. They distribute information about their companies' products to physicians, hospital nurses, and medical technicians. They do not take drug orders from these health care practitioners …

3 minute read

Pharmacist Job Description, Career as a Pharmacist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree Salary: Median—$84,900 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Pharmacists are health practitioners who specialize in dispensing drugs prescribed by physicians and providing information to patients about their side effects and use. Pharmacists must understand the composition of medicines, as well as the laws that regulate their manufacture and sale. Th…

3 minute read

Pharmacologist Job Description, Career as a Pharmacologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degrees Salary: Average—$91,407 to $118,828 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Pharmacologists are research scientists who develop, identify, and test drugs to cure, treat, and prevent disease. They also test substances, such as gases, dusts, or food colorings, to determine if they are harmful. They often study the effects of drugs and other substances o…

2 minute read

Pharmacy Aide Job Description, Career as a Pharmacy Aide, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training On-the-job training Salary Median?$9.35 per hour Employment Outlook Poor Pharmacy aides typically perform all the administrative duties of the pharmacy. Their responsibilities include answering the telephone, handling money, stocking the shelves, as well as other clerical duties. They also work closely with the pharmacy technicians and the pharmacist. In some instances the j…

2 minute read

Pharmacy Technician Job Description, Career as a Pharmacy Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Certification and previous experience preferred; on-the-job training Salary Median?$12.32 per hour Employment Outlook Good Pharmacy technicians tend to have many responsibilities within the pharmacy which may include the following: All work is overseen by a pharmacist. In addition to pharmacy technicians, some employers hire pharmacy aides who work closely with the technicia…

3 minute read

Physical Therapist Job Description, Career as a Physical Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree Salary: Median—$60,180 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Physical therapists help patients suffering from injury or disease to restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities. In addition, they promote patients' overall fitness and health. Physical therapists work with health-care team…

3 minute read

Physical Therapist Assistant Job Description, Career as a Physical Therapist Assistant, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school and associate degree Salary: Median—$37,890 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of physical therapists. They use physical treatment procedures to help improve mobility and relieve pain and disability caused by disease or injury. Physical therapists and their assistants usually work in hospitals, …

3 minute read

Physician Job Description, Career as a Physician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College and medical school, possibly with specialty training Salary: Varies—see profile Employment Outlook: Good Physicians, or medical doctors (MDs), diagnose and treat diseases, injuries, and other disorders. They also work to promote good health and prevent illness. Physicians often supervise other health-care workers, such as physician assistants, nurses, and tec…

5 minute read

Physician Assistant Job Description, Career as a Physician Assistant, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Some college and additional training Salary: Median—$69,410 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Physician assistants (PAs) relieve doctors of routine chores, allowing them to devote more of their time to patient care that requires highly specialized training. Although they are not doctors, physician assistants practice medicine and do many of the jobs doctors do. …

2 minute read

Physiotherapist Job Description, Career as a Physiotherapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Master?s or Doctorate degree Average Salary $70,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Physiotherapists treat patients who are suffering from physical restraints and disabilies as a result of illness, injury, aging, or other factors. They will work with patients to identify what is causing problems for them and create treatment and rehabilitation plans to help the patient gain b…

4 minute read

Podiatrist Job Description, Career as a Podiatrist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Advanced degree Salary: Median—$94,400 per year Employment Outlook: Good Podiatrists are medical practitioners who specialize in the treatment of sore, badly shaped, diseased, or injured feet and ankles. Podiatrists were formerly called chiropodists. They order X-rays and laboratory tests to diagnose patients' problems, which they treat by manipulation, massag…

2 minute read

Polysomnographic Technician Job Description, Career as a Polysomnographic Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training State board certification Average Salary $51,000 per year Job Outlook Very good A polysomnographic technician works under the supervision of a polysomnographic technologist. They perform tests and procedures that test the brain waves and functions on sleep patients to perform studies and determine why they are having trouble sleeping through the night. They will review patie…

3 minute read

Psychiatric Aide Job Description, Career as a Psychiatric Aide, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school and on-the-job-training Salary: Median—$11.19 per hour Employment Outlook: Fair Psychiatric aides provide routine care for mentally impaired or emotionally disturbed patients. Psychiatric aides are also called mental health assistants or psychiatric nursing assistants. They work under the supervision of a mental health team that may include psychiatrists,…

2 minute read

Psychiatrist Job Description, Career as a Psychiatrist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, medical school, and specialized training Salary: Median—$180,000 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders. They treat patients with mild cases of anxiety as well as those with severe disorders that can cause dangerous and bizarre behavior. Psychiatrists …

3 minute read

Psychologist Job Description, Career as a Psychologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Master's degree or doctorate Salary: Median—$54,950 per year Employment Outlook: Good Psychologists are scientists who study behavior. Their work usually involves teaching, research, or social service in schools, clinics, government agencies, and private industry. About forty percent are in private practice. To learn about behavior, they may conduct tests and …

4 minute read

Radiation Therapist Job Description, Career as a Radiation Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College or certificate in radiation therapy Salary: Median?$66,170 per year Employment Outlook: Good As members of a medical radiation oncology team, radiation therapists treat cancer in the human body. To do so, they use special machinery?linear accelerators?to administer treatments to shrink and eliminate cancerous tumors in the human body. In some cases, radiation therap…

3 minute read

Radiologic Technologist Job Description, Career as a Radiologic Technologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Two-year or four-year college Salary: Median—$43,350 per year Employment Outlook: Good Radiologic technologists, who are also called radiographers, take X-rays (radiographs), which are images of the inside of the human body. To take X-rays, radiographers position the patient, position the X-ray machine and other equipment, set controls, position the X-ray film, and r…

3 minute read

Recreational Therapist Job Description, Career as a Recreational Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Bachelor's degree, additional training Salary: Median—$32,900 per year Employment Outlook: Fair Recreational therapists devise programs in art, music, dance, sports, games, and crafts for individuals with disabilities or illnesses. These activities help to prevent or to alleviate physical, mental, and social problems. They improve self-confidence and self-cont…

3 minute read

Reflexologist Job Description, Career as a Reflexologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? No specific academic qualification required. Salary: Median? $35,000 annually Employment Outlook:? Good Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative form of treatment involving the application of pressure to different parts of the body in order to improve the general health. Reflexologists are professionals skilled in this natural art of healing. They treat p…

3 minute read

Registered Nurse Job Description, Career as a Registered Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College and possibly advanced degree Salary: Median—$52,330 per year Employment Outlook: Excellent Registered nurses (RNs) work to promote good health and prevent illness. They educate patients and the public about various medical conditions; treat patients and help in their rehabilitation; and provide advice and emotional support to patients' families. RNs us…

6 minute read

Resources General—Career Information

American Salaries and Wages Survey, 8th ed., Helen S. Fisher. Farmington Hills, MI: Thomson Gale, 2005. America's Fastest Growing Jobs: Detailed Information on the 140 Fastest Growing Jobs in Our Economy, 8th ed., Michael Farr. Indianapolis, IN: JIST Publishing,2004. America's Top 101 Jobs for College Graduates, 6th ed., Michael Farr. Indianapolis, IN: JIST Publishing, 2005. America&…

21 minute read

Resources—Health

AHA Guide to the Health Care Field. Washington, DC: American Hospital Association, annual. Careers in Health Care, 5th ed., Barbara Swanson. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2005. Career Opportunities in Health Care, 2nd ed., Shelly Field. New York: Facts on File, 2002. Careers in Alternative Medicine Career Resource Library, Alan Steinfeld. New York: Rosen Publishing Group, 2003. Diversified Health Occupat…

5 minute read

Respiratory Therapist Job Description, Career as a Respiratory Therapist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Two-year or four-year degree Salary: Median—$43,140 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Respiratory therapists are also known as inhalation therapists. They treat patients who have difficulty breathing and work with all types of patients, from premature infants to stroke victims to elderly patients with lung disease. They operate equipment such as respirators and …

3 minute read

School Nurse Job Description, Career as a School Nurse, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: ? Bachelor?s Degree, Certification Salary: Median ? $43,296 annually Employment Outlook: ? Good School Nurses are specialized nurses who provide care to students and staff members of schools. They take care of students who require medical attention when they are injured or suffer from acute illness. Their tasks include treating of patients, referring them to other care prov…

3 minute read

Speech-Language Pathologist Job Description, Career as a Speech-Language Pathologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Master's degree Salary: Median—$52,410 per year Employment Outlook: Good Speech pathologists, sometimes called speech therapists, work with people who cannot speak or cannot speak clearly; have speech problems, such as stuttering, an unwanted accent, or an inappropriate pitch; have problems understanding language; or have communication impairments, such as att…

3 minute read

Substance Abuse Counselor Job Description, Career as a Substance Abuse Counselor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school Salary: Median—$32,960 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Substance abuse counselors help people who have problems related to alcohol and other drugs. They counsel addicts as well as those who are afraid they might become addicts. They also help former addicts. Sometimes they counsel the families, friends, and loved ones of addicts, whose lives are in…

3 minute read

Surgeon Job Description, Career as a Surgeon, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: College, medical school, and specialized training Salary: Median—$282,504 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Surgeons are physicians who operate to repair injuries, correct deformities, prevent diseases, and generally improve the health of patients. They examine patients to determine if surgery is necessary, evaluate the risks involved, and select the appropriate…

3 minute read

Surgical Technologist Job Description, Career as a Surgical Technologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: Community college or vocational/technical school Salary: Median—$34,010 per year Employment Outlook: Very good Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, are part of the surgical team. They assist the doctors, nurses, and other operating room workers. They help prepare patients for surgery by washing, shaving, and disinfecting the intended area…

3 minute read

Transplant Surgeon Job Description, Career as a Transplant Surgeon, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Doctorate degree and board certification Average Salary $443,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Transplant surgeons are medical surgeons that specialize in organ transplants in patients. They can perform surgeries to transplant a heart, liver, kidney, or even parts of the brain to a patient who is suffering terminal illness from a defective or damaged organ. Most transplant …

4 minute read

Urologist Job Description, Career as a Urologist, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Doctorate degree Average Salary $87,000 per year Job Outlook Very good Urologists are doctors who treat conditions affecting the urinary tract of men and women as well as men?s reproductive organs. These organs include kidneys, uterus, urethra, urinary bladder, and all male reproductive organs. They typically work in private clinics and examine patient conditions and disorde…

4 minute read

Vascular Technician Job Description, Career as a Vascular Technician, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training Associate?s Degree Average Salary $59,000 a year Job Outlook Very good A vascular technician is one who assists a cardiac surgeon or a physician with diagnosing and treating heart and vessel problems. Various duties will involve helping doctors schedule appointments, going over charts and x-rays, and explaining those procedures to patients. They will also take care of any sp…

5 minute read

Ward Clerk Job Description, Career as a Ward Clerk, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training: High school Salary: $24,320 to $28,167 per year Employment Outlook: Good Ward clerks perform clerical work at the nurse's station of a hospital or nursing unit. Ward clerks are also referred to as ward, unit, or floor secretaries, assistants, or administrative assistants. Ward clerks are usually supervised by a registered nurse. Their work allows nurses to spend more…

2 minute read

Yoga Instructor/Pilates Instructor Job Description, Career as a Yoga Instructor/Pilates Instructor, Salary, Employment - Definition and Nature of the Work, Education and Training Requirements, Getting the Job

Education and Training:? Certification and specialized training. Salary: Median? Yoga Instructor: $35,000 annually, Pilates Instructor: $30,000 annually Employment Outlook:?Good Yoga instructors teach their students exercises and offer advice about lifestyle issues like diet and mind control. In classes, they demonstrate yogic positions and moves which the students can then emulate. Yoga instructo…

3 minute read