Find Your Calling: Fantastic Career Ideas in the Medical Field

The medical field is vast and encompasses a range of career opportunities. Most people tend to think of medicine in terms of becoming a doctor, but there are so many other career paths to explore. If you’re interested in working in healthcare but don’t want to be a physician, this article is for you. Here are some career ideas in the medical field that you may not have considered.

Medical Coder or Biller

Medical Records Specialist — Image Courtesy of Bureau of Labor Statistics

A medical coder or biller ensures that healthcare providers get paid for their services by insurance companies and patients. They translate medical diagnoses and procedures into codes that are used for billing and reimbursement purposes.

To become a medical coder or biller, you typically need to complete a postsecondary certificate program or an associate’s degree. These programs provide training in medical terminology, coding systems, and billing procedures. You may also need to obtain certification through organizations such as the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) or the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). This career path is ideal for those who have strong attention to detail, enjoy working with numbers and data, and have excellent organizational skills. The median annual wage for medical records specialists was $47,180 in May 2022.

Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare administrators are responsible for the smooth operation of healthcare organizations, which is extremely important. They are in charge of everything from budgeting to staff management, to developing policies and procedures. To become a healthcare administrator, you’ll typically need a master’s degree in healthcare administration or a related field.

A healthcare administrator’s work day can vary greatly depending on the specific job and organization they work for. They may spend their days attending meetings, analyzing financial reports and data, developing strategic plans, and managing staff. They also play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining high-quality patient care.

In addition to these responsibilities, healthcare administrators must also stay up-to-date on industry changes and developments to make informed decisions for their organization. This career path is well-suited for those who have strong leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and a passion for making a positive impact in the healthcare industry.

Physician Assistant

Being a physician assistant (PA) is a great career opportunity for anyone who wants to practice medicine but doesn’t want to go to medical school. PAs are licensed healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of physicians, providing a range of diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services. The job outlook for PAs is excellent, with the employment of these professionals expected to grow much faster than average.

Applicants to physician assistant education programs typically have a bachelor’s degree and some experience with patient care. Although programs vary, most require applicants to have taken undergraduate coursework with a focus in science. Bachelor’s degrees are often in healthcare or a related field, such as biology. Programs also may require that applicants have experience as a medical assistant, EMT, or paramedic, or another occupation that involves patient care.

Physician assistant education programs usually take at least 2 years of post-baccalaureate study. Physician Assistants earn an average of $126,010 /yr according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

To become a PA, you must complete an accredited program and pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). Most programs require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree and some healthcare experience. After becoming certified, PAs must also maintain their certification through continuing education courses and recertification exams every 10 years. This profession requires strong critical thinking skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and the ability to work well under pressure.

Medical Assistant

Although the name sounds similar, Medical assistants are at the opposite end of the spectrum from Physician’s Assistants. Medical assistants complete administrative and clinical tasks, such as scheduling appointments and taking patients’ vital signs. Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 14 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 114,600 openings for medical assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Medical assistants typically complete a medical assistant training program, such as for a medical assistant certificate or an associate’s degree. Programs are available in community colleges, vocational schools, technical schools, and universities and take about 1 or 2 years to complete. Medical assistant programs include courses such as medical terminology, anatomy, and pharmacology. They also typically include supervised experience, such as a practicum or an internship. The median annual wage for medical assistants was $38,270 in May 2022.

Medical Laboratory Technician

Medical laboratory technicians work behind the scenes to analyze patient samples. They prepare and analyze blood, tissue and other body fluids, and use a variety of complex laboratory equipment. A degree in medical lab technology or clinical laboratory science is typically a requirement for this career.

A typical work day for a medical laboratory technician may involve preparing samples for analysis, performing tests and analyses using sophisticated equipment, and accurately recording and interpreting test results. They may also be responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies, ordering necessary materials, and ensuring proper disposal of hazardous substances as needed.

In addition to these tasks, lab technicians must adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent contamination and maintain the integrity of test results. This career path is well-suited for those who have a strong aptitude for science, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Clinical laboratory technologists typically earn a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a related life sciences field, such as biology or chemistry.

Bachelor’s degree programs in medical laboratory technology, also known as a medical laboratory scientist degree, include courses in chemistry, biology, and hematology. Accredited programs typically include instruction in laboratory skills, such as safety procedures and lab management, as well as hands-on training in a hospital or other clinical setting. Some laboratory science programs can be completed in 2 years or less and require prior college coursework or a bachelor’s degree. The median annual wage for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians was $57,380 in May 2022.

Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists work alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists and registered nurses to prepare the operating room, sterilize equipment and assist with surgical procedures. This job often requires completion of an accredited surgical technology program, although some may learn on the job.

Surgical technologists must have excellent hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and attention to detail as they are responsible for preparing and handling surgical instruments. They also need to be able to think quickly and anticipate the needs of the surgeon during a procedure.

Strong communication skills and the ability to work well under pressure are also essential in this role. Additionally, surgical technologists must adhere to strict sterile techniques and maintain a high level of accuracy to ensure patient safety. This career is ideal for those who are interested in the medical field but prefer a more hands-on, technical role in the operating room.

Surgical assistants and technologists typically need a certificate or associate’s degree from an accredited program. Many community colleges and vocational schools, as well as some universities and hospitals, offer accredited surgical technology or surgical assisting programs. Surgical assistants may complete a formal education program in surgical assisting. Others may work as surgical technologists and receive additional on-the-job training to become first assistants.

Surgical technology education includes courses such as anatomy, microbiology, and physiology. These workers also learn about the care and safety of patients, sterilization techniques, how to set up technical or robotic equipment, and preventing and controlling infections. In addition to classroom study, students gain hands-on experience in supervised clinical settings. The median annual wage for surgical assistants was $57,290 in May 2022.

There are many other career opportunities in the medical field that you can choose from. However, these five career options are an excellent start for anyone who is looking to work in healthcare but doesn’t want to be a doctor. Whether you’re interested in becoming a PA, healthcare administrator, or surgical technologist, you have plenty of options. It’s up to you to choose the career path that best aligns with your interests and passions.

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