As the nation’s economy begins to recover from its dramatic tailspin, industry prognosticators are forecasting sustained job growth within several choice sectors. Not surprisingly, the healthcare industry is at the forefront of this windfall. With the increasing demands of an aging population, the rise in chronic health conditions and advances in medical technology, the industry is growing rapidly. With over 13.5 million currently employed and an additionally three million new jobs to be added annually, the President’s Council of Economic Advisers report that the healthcare industry will be the largest source of employment through 2016. To add to the good news, salaries and job security are expected to rise with demand.
Here is a list of top healthcare professions:
Pharmacist
Average Annual Salary: $85,000
They’re instrumental in interpreting medical instructions, dispensing medication and providing other health services. Requires a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE).
Healthcare Administrator
Average Annual Salary: $73,000
They are the business and management backbone of healthcare and no institution is run effectively without one. Their responsibilities include overseeing personnel, adaptation of hospital’s policies and guidelines and supervising the delivery of health care. As the fundamentals of healthcare changes, they will be responsible for coordinating and implementing new systems. Requires Masters Degree as Medical or healthcare manager.
Physician Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $70,000
More doctors’ offices are relying on these health professionals to assess conditions and deliver treatment and follow-up care for minor illnesses. Careers are expected to increase by over half in the next ten years. Requires completion of 2-year program.
Physical Therapist
Average Annual Salary: $66,000
Physical therapists restore mobility and motor function, help patients recover from physically debilitating injury or pain and promote good overall health. Employment of physical therapists is expected to grow 27% through to 2016. Requires Masters Degree and state licensing.
Registered Nurse
Average Annual Salary: $60,000
The severe shortage of nurses in the US and the increase of a wide array of health issues guarantee the continued growth and demand of this profession for the foreseeable future. Jobs open in a variety of fields such as oncology, neurosurgery and general practice. Advanced degrees, teaching or corporate position are available. Requires nursing diploma, BSN or ADN degree; state license and certification for specialty.
MRI Technician/Sonographer
Average Annual Salary: $57,000
One of the most lucrative, in-demand fields, sonographers enjoy job stability and flexibility in a variety of health settings including hospitals, laboratories, and physician’s offices.
Dental Hygienist
Average Annual Salary: $56,000
Essential to the field of dentistry, they are responsible for the care and maintenance of patients’ oral health and consequently are in high demand. Requires an Associate degree, at minimum and state licensing.
Dietician/Nutritionist
Average Annual Salary: $43,000 — $100,000
With the increased need to develop and maintain healthy eating and lifestyle habits, this has become of the fastest growing careers in healthcare. Jobs are available in hospitals, schools, nursing homes and in private companies and households. Requires a Bachelors or Masters Degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or other related area and state certifications and license.