Healthcare is a critical part of our lives. Patients need caring professionals to take good care of them, and healthcare providers need to find the best candidates to fill those roles.
Entering the healthcare profession used to be a daunting task and usually takes years to become eligible in the field. Luckily, with the advancement of technology and a rise in new posts, it is no longer as difficult to find a career in the Health sector.
To get you started, we have rounded up a list of the Healthcare roles that do not require a college degree.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
An LPN's role involves changing bandages, blood pressure checking, and helping patients accomplish numerous self-care chores such as bathing or dressing. Depending on the environment and position, the duties of the job can vary. If you're considering a nursing career but aren't willing to commit to a higher degree, an LPN may be the right choice.
Many states call them professional nurses or LPNs, while others call them technical nurses or LVNs.
Prospective LPNs complete High School first and then a year of nursing education.
In core areas such as medical, surgical, and obstetric nursing, training involves both theory and clinical practice. Moving into a program requires advance preparation. Before beginning studies, a nursing candidate needs a background check, a physical screening, and an aptitude test of the necessary skills.
Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants provide support to medical staff on the side-line. They are cross-trained in carrying out administrative and clinical tasks.
These tasks involve arranging hospital admissions and laboratory services, scheduling appointments, updating medical records, bookkeeping, taking medical histories, explaining treatment procedures to patients, preparing patients for examinations, and assisting the physician during exams.
Medical Assistants may take a post-secondary program that typically takes one year.
Career Overlook
Operating in the offices of doctors and Healthcare clinics, Medical Assistants perform a range of administrative duties, keeping the operations of the practice running smoothly and on time.
In the US, clinical Medical Assistants work even more closely with physicians and patients, taking vital signs, reviewing medical records, preparing patients for exams, performing essential laboratory work, and promoting care.
Educational Requirements
The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) states that aspiring Medical Assistants should complete a 2-year associate program accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Graduates must be eligible to take the AAMA certification test to become Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs). The credential will be renewed every five years.
Students who wish to join the workforce faster can follow a 1-year medical assistance program through a vocational school to earn a diploma or credential.
Medical Coder
The average annual salary of a Medical Coder as of 2017 is $35,250 per year.
Medical Coders are responsible for translating reports from doctors into useful medical alphanumeric codes. Such professionals operate in several environments behind the scenes, ensuring that all relevant information including diagnoses, treatments, services, and equipment, is correctly coded to ensure accuracy and precision.
Educational Requirements
Certification requirements are not specified.
Nonetheless, employers usually require certification or an associate degree for the vast majority of workers in Medical Coding (also referred to as medical records and health information technology).
The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) are two leading organizations offering certifications in Medical Coding. Both are nationally recognized and offer courses, certification examinations, and memberships.
Pharmacy Technician
A Pharmacy Technician operates under a licensed pharmacist's direct supervision to process prescriptions, dispense drugs, perform pharmacy-related tasks, and provide customer information.
Educational Requirements
Most schools require students at a local medical facility or drugstore to complete a certain number of clinical hours. Upon completion, you should understand how to prepare medication and assist patient care pharmacists. You will also know how to maintain pharmacy equipment in federal, state, and local regulations.
Pharmacy procedures, pharmacy theory, pharmacy dispensing, and general medical conditions can be included in the courses. A quality curriculum should provide you with the skills and resources required to take a Pharmacy Certification test.
Medical Administrative Assistant
Medical Administrative Assistants (sometimes called medical secretaries) work to carry out specific administrative duties in some medical environments. Their regular tasks include answering the phone, collecting patient information, arranging appointments, and welcoming patients as they arrive in the waiting room.
This is a high entry-level position best suited to an organized person who can handle various tasks and are well versed in customer service skills.
Although there are no formal requirements, employers typically prefer certified Medical Administrative Assistants. You can acquire a Certificate of Medical Administrative Assistant in as few as nine months.
Educational Requirements
A High School diploma or GED equivalent is the required level of education needed to begin training as a Medical Administrative Assistant.
Several Medical Assistant professionals complete a medical assisting program via a vocational school or community college.
Also Read: Job Description - Medical Administrative Assistant
Conclusion
There are many jobs you can get without a Bachelor's degree in the Healthcare industry.
If you find the best match for your talents and interests, you will enjoy a fulfilling career that will benefit others.
