The healthcare industry is booming, with healthcare jobs expected to grow 16% over the next decade – which is faster than the national average for all occupations.
Furthermore, in 2018, the healthcare industry was the largest source of jobs in the United States for the first time in history.
Pretty impressive.
However, there are some roles that pave the way for success more than others.
Whether you want to earn the highest salaries, experience the greatest job satisfaction or enjoy peace of mind with enhanced job security, keep reading to discover the five best jobs in healthcare right now.
Plus, how you can beat the competition and land these dream roles for yourself!
Why choose a career in healthcare?
If you wish to make a difference in others lives, there is no better industry than healthcare. It doesn’t matter what field of healthcare you choose to go into, your duties will have an impact on patient care and will have a positive impact on the world.
This means that as well as helping others, you are also much more likely to experience job satisfaction which can be instrumental in achieving your career goals.
Whilst the cost of education can be worrisome for some people looking to get into the healthcare sector, the high levels of pay and job security should be enough to counteract any monetary concerns.
Finally, there is a certain amount of prestige that comes with working in the healthcare industry, especially for those who have risen in the ranks and achieved a leadership role. You instantly become a valued and important person in the local community as you have the power to affect real change.
Best Jobs in Healthcare 2022
1. Healthcare Administrator
Not everyone in healthcare to be a nurse or a physician and there are plenty of admin and managerial roles within the industry that offer lucrative pay packages and good job security.
One of these roles is a Healthcare Administrator. Responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of hospitals and other healthcare facilities, you will be required to plan and supervise all medical services.
Duties include:
- Update health records
- Manage patient fees and billing
- Manage facilities finances
- Develop work schedules for physicians and other medical staff
Earning potential:
The median annual salary for a Medical and Health Services Manager which includes Healthcare Administrators is $104,280
Qualifications needed:
Master in Health Administration or an Executive Master in Health Administration EMHA degree.
2. Physician & Surgeon
Some of the most highly paid professionals within the healthcare industry, physicians and surgeons are very patient-focused roles.
Physicians are responsible for diagnosing and treating their patients, whereas as the focus of a surgeon is focused on operating to repair physical conditions such as a broken arm or to remove a tumor.
Duties include:
- Diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries
- Examine patients
- Prescribe medications
- Offer advice on health, diet and exercise
Earning potential:
The median annual salary for a Physician or Surgeon is equal or greater than $208,000.
Qualifications needed:
Doctorate or professional degree.
3. Dentist
Not many people are aware of this but dentists are actually some of the top-earning medical professionals. Responsible for treating patient’s teeth and gums, as well as offering advice on preventative measures for good oral health, the role of a dentist is predominantly patient-focused.
Duties include:
- Examine and diagnose patients
- Consult with patients about treatment options
- Keep accurate records
- Advise on preventative dentalcare
Earning potential:
The average annual salary for a Dentist is $161,010.
Qualifications needed:
A Bachelor’s degree and four years of dental school. You will need to pass a licensing exam before you can practice.
4. Nurse Practitioner
Nurse practitioners serve as primary care providers and help integrate health strategies into their patient’s lives. A well-paid role that also offers high levels of job satisfaction and good job security, there are currently many roles available for qualified NPs.
Duties include:
- Performing physical exams
- Recording patient’s medical history and symptoms
- Creating patient healthcare plans
- Ordering and administrating diagnostic tests
Earning potential:
The median annual salary for a Nurse Practitioner is $114,510.
Qualifications needed:
Master’s degree such as a Master in Science of Nursing (MSN).
5. Pharmacists
As a pharmacist, you can work in a hospital, GP surgery, community pharmacy, or even a prison. In a diverse and exciting role, you can also learn about the future of pharmacies using the latest technologies such as virtual reality.
Duties include:
- Dispense prescription medication to patients
- Offer advice on how to safely administer medications
- Maintain patient records
- Advise patients and healthcare providers about drugs, including usage, storage, and side effects
Earning potential:
The median annual salary for a Pharmacist is $128,710.
Qualifications needed:
Doctoral or professional degree.
How to get the role you want in healthcare
- Build your professional network
The first, and arguably most important step, in getting hired in healthcare is to build a strong professional network. Make sure you make contacts at college, during internships, at work, and at industry events.
- Optimize your resume
If you want to outshine all the other candidates, you need to make sure your resume has been perfected. Ensure that it is kept up to date and that it accurately showcases your strengths and aptitudes. Don’t forget to also update your social media profiles, especially LinkedIn.
- Make sure you have the necessary qualifications
There is no use in applying for a position that you are not qualified for, as you are highly unlikely to be successful. Instead, channel your efforts into obtaining the right qualifications and skills needed and then apply when you are in a better situation to achieve an interview.
- Identify transferable skills
If you are new to the healthcare sector, you may be struggling to compete with applicants who have years of experience. To overcome this, aim to highlight any transferable skills you may have, such as experience caring for someone, people skills, knowledge of science or technology, organizing and managing a team, or practical skills that may be useful.
