The healthcare field is known for titles such as “doctor,” “nurse” and “pharmacist.” However, there are also many other lucrative jobs in healthcare that go unnoticed. Here is a list of those healthcare jobs that are lesser known.
Dental technicians do not interact with patients, perform x-rays or clean teeth. They sit behind the scenes in labs, creating crowns, dentures and partials. Most of the time, a dental technician will find himself working in a small lab, though there are some places that employ hundreds of dental technicians. Many times, dental technicians experience on-the-job learning. However, there are various colleges and technical schools that give classes on the subject. As of 2016, the median average salary was $37,680.
Veterinary technicians are the veterinary equivalents of registered nurses. They assist veterinarians in treating and diagnosing people’s pets. Just like registered nurses, veterinary technicians need to go through 2 to 4 years of education and receive a certification before they are allowed to work. Veterinary technicians give vaccines, take x-rays, administer anesthesia, obtain samples of bodily fluids, restrain animals and monitor vital signs. As of 2017, the median annual salary is $33,400. The top 10% annual salary is $49,350.
It may seem rather odd to put “IT Specialist” under the umbrella of “healthcare careers.” However, many aspects of healthcare rely on computers and technology. This is where IT specialist have a place. They maintain the networks and systems of institutions. They also keep these networks and systems safe. All of the important databases and programs that are used by healthcare institutions are able to operate because of the work of these professionals. If there is a medical answering service that runs through some sort of program, IT specialists are the ones who maintain it.
Certified nurse assistants, or CNAs, are low-level nurses. They are supervised by those above them—licensed practical nurses and registered nurses. People who want to become CNAs have to complete a program and become certified. A degree is not required. The work of CNAs involves keeping records and physically caring for patients. There are a lot of things that they are not allowed to do that higher level nurses are allowed to do, such as give shots.
If you want to look into lesser known, yet lucrative, healthcare careers, you should look into certified nurse assistants, IT specialists, dental technicians and veterinary technicians. These careers do not primarily come to mind when thinking about healthcare, though they are still very important.
Emma is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2