The medical field offers a wide variety of career paths to choose from. Selecting the right medical career for your interests, skills, and goals requires research and self-reflection. Here are some ideas to help you choose a fulfilling medical career.
Healthcare Provider Jobs
Many people think of doctors and nurses first when considering medical careers. However, there are various healthcare provider roles.
Physicians diagnose and treat illnesses. The most common types are family medicine doctors, pediatricians, internists, and surgeons. Becoming a physician requires a bachelor’s degree, four years of medical school, residency training, and possibly a fellowship.
Nurses provide patient care and education. Registered nurses (RNs) are the most common and usually need an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing. Nurse practitioners can prescribe medicine and have more autonomy. This role requires a master’s degree.
Other direct patient care roles include physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and pharmacy technicians. Research each profession to find the right fit for you.
Laboratory Careers
Behind the scenes, laboratory professionals conduct tests that assist with diagnosing and treating medical conditions.
For example, medical laboratory technicians (MLTs) run routine tests on body fluid and tissue samples. Becoming an MLT requires an associate degree.
Then there are medical laboratory scientists (MLS), also known as medical technologists, who perform more complex tests and analyses. MLS positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science. This article on MLT vs MLS goes into more detail.
Other lab roles include cytotechnologists, histotechnologists, and genetic counselors. Hands-on laboratory work combined with the satisfaction of assisting physicians can make these careers very fulfilling.
Healthcare Administration
For those more interested in the business side of healthcare, consider healthcare administration. Common positions include medical office managers, health information managers, and hospital administrators.
These roles manage clinic or hospital operations, finances, policies, technology, and more. Most healthcare administrator jobs require a bachelor’s degree, though a master’s degree can provide advancement opportunities.
Healthcare Support Services
Support services are vital for delivering excellent patient care. These roles provide customized care and services for patients.
For example, occupational therapy assistants help patients recover motor skills. Physical therapist assistants work under physical therapists to aid in restoring mobility. Radiology technicians take X-rays and other medical images. Entry-level education varies from on-the-job training to an associate degree.
Other examples include medical assistants, massage therapists, dental hygienists, and surgical technologists. There are many options to find a hands-on role that matches your interests.
Research Health Professions Thoroughly
Choosing a medical career is a big decision. Take time to research professions fully before deciding. Consider shadowing professionals in roles you may be interested in. Also, speak with educational programs to learn about prerequisites, costs, and curriculum. Evaluating options thoroughly will help you plan your educational path wisely.
Most importantly, reflect on your own interests, strengths, and goals. Do you hope to provide direct patient care or prefer technical lab work? Are you excited by complex research and analysis or drawn to hands-on roles? Your personal preferences and soft skills can help steer you towards a rewarding medical profession. With so many options, you can find the right medical career path for you.
The owners of Cinnamon Hollow and many of its authors are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
