Work in Healthcare Without a Medical Degree

Work in Healthcare Without a Medical Degree

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While formal universities provide some great opportunities for many, it’s possible to work in healthcare without a medical degree! Allied health is one field that is incredibly diverse. More accurately, it’s many medical specialties that play key and supporting roles in public health. For people interested in a healthcare career but don’t quite see themselves in a bonafide medical school, allied health jobs provide the answer! Here we’ll explore some of the top positions that don’t require a medical degree:

work in healthcare without a medical degree

Considering the record levels of student debt plaguing young professionals, many seek alternative routes for their careers. Say you want to work in healthcare but don’t see yourself taking the full, med-school direction. If so, you’ll be glad to know there are many options still available! Allied healthcare professionals work to support the traditional medical occupations of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. They also hold positions in various therapeutic fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology.

Keep in mind that many allied health fields can be furthered with certain degrees. Actually, fields like occupational therapy or audiology do require advanced degrees. Still, that leaves a range of flexible options that allow individuals to work in healthcare without a medical degree.

3 Ways to Work in Healthcare Without a Medical Degree

1. Phlebotomy

Phlebotomists work in a wide range of medical contexts, ensuring that blood draws go quickly and efficiently. Considering that many large hospitals and medical facilities require these services, you’ll often be the go-to professional! In addition to drawing blood and obtaining samples, these positions require routine testing, cataloging, and storing blood safely and effectively. This is a great career to consider if you want to work in healthcare without a medical degree!

Some of the unique opportunities for phlebotomists include working blood drives, assisting surgeons, and other general practitioners. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the typical annual salary of a phlebotomist cashes in at $31,630 with great growth from now until 2024!

2. Pharmacy Technicians

Working side-by-side with pharmacists to stock, assemble, and distribute prescription medication, pharmacy technician jobs make for great careers! Sure, you’ll still need to complete the necessary certificate programs and receive a diploma, but these jobs are another great way to work in healthcare without a medical degree. For those eventually pursuing careers as pharmacists, these jobs are a good start. After learning the ins and outs of medication, dosage requirements, and pharmacy law, all provide a great experience.

According to the BLS, the starting salary for pharmacy technicians is a solid $30,000, however, more training and experience can increase these wages. For individuals who are very detail-oriented, strong communicators, and possess great computer skills, these jobs are a great choice.

work in healthcare without a medical degree

3. Surgical Technicians

Surgical technicians work closely with physicians, surgeons, registered nurses, and others providing critical assistance during surgeries. In many cases, surgical technicians prepare rooms and patients for surgery, assisting with recovery as well. Again, this is a great career path for those who want to work in healthcare without a medical degree! Professionals need to have a knowledge of surgical instruments and operating procedures in order to keep up with the surgeon. Of course, attention to detail is critical in addition to staying up on the latest advancements in the field.

Generally, an associates degree is required for these jobs. The main certification for these jobs is acquired through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). This is only after someone completes an accredited program and two-years of on-the-job training, or works in the field for 7 or more years. The BLS shows these jobs providing $44,330 salaries with great growth from now until 2024!

Other allied health jobs allowing you to work in healthcare without a medical degree include MRI technology, diagnostic medical sonography, as well as occupational and physical therapists.

Are you searching for a traveling position in allied health? See all of our available job listings and apply today!

Author: Allied Travel Careers

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