With so many different types of jobs in the medical field, it’s hard to find the one that’s right for you.
However, if we break it down into 7 broad categories, it’s easier to get a feel for which type of job you would enjoy that fits with your working habits.
Diagnosing/Treating Fields
People in these fields have high amounts of direct interaction with patients. They are highly competitive. For education, one can expect to go to school for a longer period of time.
Examples:
- Dentist
- Optometrist
- Physician
Associated Fields
People in these fields carry out the prescribed treatments of the diagnosing/treating fields, requiring hands-on work and direct patient care. They are also typically highly selective. One needs at least an undergraduate degree, but it can extend all the way to the doctoral level.
Examples:
- Nurse
- Dietician
- Pharmacist
Rehabilitating Fields
People in these fields restore a specific aspect of the body or brain. They are moderate to highly competitive. Expect to complete an undergraduate degree.
Examples:
- Audiologist
- Physical therapist
- Speech-language therapist
Assisting Fields
People in this field support other health professionals and usually have direct patient contact. These jobs are minimal to moderately competitive. The levels of schooling you need to have to obtain a job in this field vary. Some require just a certificate, while others require a bachelor’s degree.
Examples:
- Technologists
- Technicians
- Assistants
Educational Fields
People in these fields assist people in understanding their healthcare system and educate them about their health. The competitiveness varies depending on the program and degree that you have. Some jobs require a background in education or counseling.
Examples:
- Dietary manager
- Biomedical writer
- Mental health worker
Administrative Fields
People in these fields assist or manage health organizations. Some degrees require a background in business, and most need a strong foundation in social sciences.
Examples:
- Nursing home director
- Medical secretary
- Hospital public relations officer
Affiliated Fields
People working in these fields are loosely related to healthcare. There is a wide range of work in this field, from direct patient care to none. Some are science-based, while others rely more on social sciences. Most fields require a completed bachelor’s degree plus a graduate-level degree, often a Ph.D.
Examples:
- Biomedical engineer
- Social worker
- Epidemiologist
Citations
Ruth B, Beverly C. Seven Categories of Health Careers. https://www.colorado.edu/career/majors-exploration/health-professions/seven-categories-health-careers. Accessed March 7, 2023.