Following the Health Care Career Road

Good news may be scarce these days for those deciding on a career path, but there’s at least one bright spot: the field of health care. People interested in entering this rewarding field will be encouraged knowing that demand for health care professionals is predicted to increase significantly, well into the coming decade.

“Health care” is a broad field though. What sorts of jobs does it embrace? Everyone is familiar with the most obvious: physicians and nurses. The other options are too numerous, here are a few examples.

Surgical Technologist:

Sometimes known as “scrubs,” surgical technologists work in the operating room as part of a surgical team. They prepare the OR, set up sterile instruments, equipment and supplies, then directly assist surgeons during the operation. Surgical technologist training is available at community and junior colleges, vocational schools, colleges and universities, with programs lasting nine to 24 months. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median yearly earnings of surgical technologists were more than $36,000 in 2006. The bureau also predicts a 24 percent increase in demand for surgical techs over the next seven years – a much higher rate than for most other occupations.

Physician’s Assistant:

A physician’s assistant or PA practices medicine under the supervision of a physician. PAs are found throughout the healthcare world and in general practice in every specialty. Demand for PAs has grown remarkably, and shows no sign of slowing. Most PA training programs require that applicants have completed two or more years of college; prior health care experience is also recommended. Programs generally require two years of full-time study. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median annual pay for PAs at $75,000, and in excess of $100,000 for the highest earners.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT):

EMTs enjoy a physically active and challenging health care career. Most work in the field as part of emergency response teams in close communication and coordination with physicians. EMTs most often train at vocational schools, community colleges or colleges, in programs lasting up to two years. The median earnings for EMTs were more than $27,000 in 2006, reported the Bureau of Labor Statistics - with the upper range exceeding $47,000.

Again, this is just a tiny sample of the broad spectrum of opportunities in the exciting, expanding field of health care.