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What is a good career in the medical field??
I am interested in medicine but I'm unsure what career I want to go into.
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9 answers
Updated
Noman’s Answer
A good career in the medical field depends on your interests and strengths. Some popular options include becoming a doctor, nurse, physician assistant, pharmacist, or medical researcher. Each of these roles offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on people's health and well-being. It's important to choose a career that aligns with your passion and skill set.
Updated
Nneka’s Answer
Hi Freya
Medical field is a broad discipline. It encompasses many many fields like medicine and surgery, nursing, optometrist, medical lab scientist, dentistry, orthopedics, public health practitioners, radiologists, sonpgraphers and many others.
All fields in medicine are important and also lucrative. You only have to assess your self and pick the area you show competence in.
Goodluck to you.
Medical field is a broad discipline. It encompasses many many fields like medicine and surgery, nursing, optometrist, medical lab scientist, dentistry, orthopedics, public health practitioners, radiologists, sonpgraphers and many others.
All fields in medicine are important and also lucrative. You only have to assess your self and pick the area you show competence in.
Goodluck to you.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
There are many fields in the medical profession. You can start by becoming a volunteer at your local hospital. You can also intern in many different departments to see what you like.
Michelle
Michelle
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi Freya!
My name is Michelle. I have always been interested in the medical field, but I am far too squeamish to be a nurse or a doctor. I also have been chronically ill, primarily in my adult life, and I noticed that good techs (x-ray, ultrasound, assistants, etc...) can be the difference between a good and a bad experience in a medical setting. I set out to find something that interested me while also giving me the opportunity to comfort patients when they are nervous or scared. This led me to X-Ray. Right now, there is a high demand for radiologic technologists.
The amazing thing is that if you go into X-Ray, you will have so many opportunities for other careers in imaging. X-Ray is basically the foundation for almost all other imaging modalities. You can move on to Mammography, MRI, CT scan, Radiation Therapy, Nuclear Medicine, Cardiac Catheterization, and Interventional Radiology, among others. You can also work in totally different settings such as hospitals, doctors' offices, urgent care, imaging centers, and surgical centers. Careers in imaging pay well. I'd encourage you to explore your options! I attended a 2-year program at my local community college and it was fantastic. The resources were great, and I made so many friends and connections.
Good luck pursuing a career, and please don't hesitate to message me for more information! :)
Look into local programs
Explore different imaging modalities and see what interests you
My name is Michelle. I have always been interested in the medical field, but I am far too squeamish to be a nurse or a doctor. I also have been chronically ill, primarily in my adult life, and I noticed that good techs (x-ray, ultrasound, assistants, etc...) can be the difference between a good and a bad experience in a medical setting. I set out to find something that interested me while also giving me the opportunity to comfort patients when they are nervous or scared. This led me to X-Ray. Right now, there is a high demand for radiologic technologists.
The amazing thing is that if you go into X-Ray, you will have so many opportunities for other careers in imaging. X-Ray is basically the foundation for almost all other imaging modalities. You can move on to Mammography, MRI, CT scan, Radiation Therapy, Nuclear Medicine, Cardiac Catheterization, and Interventional Radiology, among others. You can also work in totally different settings such as hospitals, doctors' offices, urgent care, imaging centers, and surgical centers. Careers in imaging pay well. I'd encourage you to explore your options! I attended a 2-year program at my local community college and it was fantastic. The resources were great, and I made so many friends and connections.
Good luck pursuing a career, and please don't hesitate to message me for more information! :)
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Updated
anahi’s Answer
The medical field offers a wide range of rewarding and impactful careers. The "best" career depends on your interests, skills, and preferences. Here are some notable and diverse medical careers to consider:
### **1. **Physician:**
- Physicians diagnose and treat patients, specializing in various fields such as internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, or psychiatry.
### **2. **Nurse Practitioner:**
- Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialized healthcare, often working independently or collaboratively with physicians.
### **3. **Physician Assistant:**
- Physician assistants work with physicians, performing tasks like diagnosing, treating, and counseling patients.
### **4. **Registered Nurse:**
- Registered nurses provide patient care, administer medications, and coordinate with healthcare teams in hospitals, clinics, or other settings.
### **5. **Pharmacist:**
- Pharmacists dispense medications, educate patients on their use, and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure proper drug therapy.
### **6. **Dentist:**
- Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues, providing preventive care and various dental procedures.
### **7. **Physical Therapist:**
- Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries or surgeries, focusing on mobility and pain management through therapeutic exercises.
### **8. **Occupational Therapist:**
- Occupational therapists assist individuals in improving their ability to perform daily tasks and adapt to various physical challenges.
### **9. **Speech-Language Pathologist:**
- Speech-language pathologists work with individuals to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders.
### **10. **Medical Laboratory Scientist:**
- Medical laboratory scientists perform tests on patient samples to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
### **11. **Radiologic Technologist:**
- Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assist in diagnosing medical conditions.
### **12. **Respiratory Therapist:**
- Respiratory therapists specialize in treating patients with respiratory issues, providing care for conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
### **13. **Medical Researcher:**
- Medical researchers conduct studies to advance medical knowledge, contributing to the development of new treatments and therapies.
### **14. **Public Health Professional:**
- Public health professionals work on preventing and managing health issues at a population level, addressing factors such as disease prevention and health education.
### **15. **Healthcare Administrator:**
- Healthcare administrators manage the business aspects of healthcare facilities, overseeing budgets, personnel, and overall operations.
### **16. **Clinical Psychologist:**
- Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders, providing therapy and counseling to individuals and groups.
### **17. **Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic:**
- EMTs and paramedics provide emergency medical care in pre-hospital settings, responding to emergencies and transporting patients to medical facilities.
### **18. **Genetic Counselor:**
- Genetic counselors provide information and support to individuals and families dealing with genetic conditions or concerns.
### **19. **Nutritionist/Dietitian:**
- Nutritionists and dietitians help individuals manage their health through proper nutrition, providing guidance on diet and lifestyle choices.
### **20. **Health Educator:**
- Health educators develop and implement programs to educate communities on healthy living and disease prevention.
When choosing a medical career, consider your interests, strengths, and the type of impact you want to make. Exploring various healthcare roles through internships, shadowing, or informational interviews can help you make an informed decision.
### **1. **Physician:**
- Physicians diagnose and treat patients, specializing in various fields such as internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, or psychiatry.
### **2. **Nurse Practitioner:**
- Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialized healthcare, often working independently or collaboratively with physicians.
### **3. **Physician Assistant:**
- Physician assistants work with physicians, performing tasks like diagnosing, treating, and counseling patients.
### **4. **Registered Nurse:**
- Registered nurses provide patient care, administer medications, and coordinate with healthcare teams in hospitals, clinics, or other settings.
### **5. **Pharmacist:**
- Pharmacists dispense medications, educate patients on their use, and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure proper drug therapy.
### **6. **Dentist:**
- Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues, providing preventive care and various dental procedures.
### **7. **Physical Therapist:**
- Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries or surgeries, focusing on mobility and pain management through therapeutic exercises.
### **8. **Occupational Therapist:**
- Occupational therapists assist individuals in improving their ability to perform daily tasks and adapt to various physical challenges.
### **9. **Speech-Language Pathologist:**
- Speech-language pathologists work with individuals to assess, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders.
### **10. **Medical Laboratory Scientist:**
- Medical laboratory scientists perform tests on patient samples to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
### **11. **Radiologic Technologist:**
- Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assist in diagnosing medical conditions.
### **12. **Respiratory Therapist:**
- Respiratory therapists specialize in treating patients with respiratory issues, providing care for conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
### **13. **Medical Researcher:**
- Medical researchers conduct studies to advance medical knowledge, contributing to the development of new treatments and therapies.
### **14. **Public Health Professional:**
- Public health professionals work on preventing and managing health issues at a population level, addressing factors such as disease prevention and health education.
### **15. **Healthcare Administrator:**
- Healthcare administrators manage the business aspects of healthcare facilities, overseeing budgets, personnel, and overall operations.
### **16. **Clinical Psychologist:**
- Clinical psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders, providing therapy and counseling to individuals and groups.
### **17. **Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) or Paramedic:**
- EMTs and paramedics provide emergency medical care in pre-hospital settings, responding to emergencies and transporting patients to medical facilities.
### **18. **Genetic Counselor:**
- Genetic counselors provide information and support to individuals and families dealing with genetic conditions or concerns.
### **19. **Nutritionist/Dietitian:**
- Nutritionists and dietitians help individuals manage their health through proper nutrition, providing guidance on diet and lifestyle choices.
### **20. **Health Educator:**
- Health educators develop and implement programs to educate communities on healthy living and disease prevention.
When choosing a medical career, consider your interests, strengths, and the type of impact you want to make. Exploring various healthcare roles through internships, shadowing, or informational interviews can help you make an informed decision.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Freya,
Embarking on a Rewarding Journey in the Medical Profession
The decision to pursue a career in the medical field is an important one, given the myriad of opportunities it presents. Here are some fulfilling and esteemed career paths in the medical sector you might want to explore:
1. Physician (Doctor): The role of a physician, one of the most esteemed professions in the medical field, involves diagnosing and treating various illnesses, injuries, and health conditions. Physicians can specialize in numerous areas such as pediatrics, cardiology, oncology, surgery, and more. This career path necessitates comprehensive education and training, including medical school and residency programs.
2. Nurse Practitioner: As advanced practice registered nurses, nurse practitioners offer primary and specialty healthcare services. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and formulate treatment plans. Often, they work independently or in collaboration with physicians, enjoying a high degree of autonomy and responsibility.
3. Physician Assistant: Working under the guidance of physicians, physician assistants deliver healthcare services to patients. They perform physical exams, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret tests, and assist in surgeries. They can be found in various settings like hospitals, clinics, and private practices. To become a physician assistant, completion of a relevant program and obtaining licensure is necessary.
4. Pharmacist: Pharmacists are integral to healthcare, dispensing medications, providing drug information, and guiding patients on correct usage. They are employed in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. To practice, pharmacists must complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program and obtain licensure.
5. Physical Therapist: Physical therapists assist patients in recovering from injuries or illnesses by creating personalized treatment plans that include exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques. They work with patients of all ages to enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and prevent disability. To become a physical therapist, earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and obtaining licensure is required.
6. Medical Researcher: Medical researchers undertake studies to enhance our knowledge of diseases, treatments, and healthcare practices. They contribute to medical knowledge and innovation in laboratories, universities, pharmaceutical companies, and government agencies. A career in medical research typically necessitates a graduate degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a relevant field.
These are just a handful of the rewarding careers in the medical field that you might want to consider, based on your interests and aspirations. It's crucial to explore various options, reflect on your strengths and preferences, and seek advice from professionals to make a well-informed decision about your future career path.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
1. Mayo Clinic: Known for its expertise in patient care, research, and education, the Mayo Clinic is a leading medical institution. Their website offers trustworthy information on a variety of medical topics and career paths in healthcare.
2. American Medical Association (AMA): Representing physicians across the United States, the AMA provides valuable insights into different medical careers and educational pathways for those aspiring to be healthcare professionals.
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on occupational outlooks, including job growth projections, salary information, and educational requirements for various professions in the healthcare industry. Their reports can assist individuals in making informed decisions about their career choices in the medical field.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine.
Embarking on a Rewarding Journey in the Medical Profession
The decision to pursue a career in the medical field is an important one, given the myriad of opportunities it presents. Here are some fulfilling and esteemed career paths in the medical sector you might want to explore:
1. Physician (Doctor): The role of a physician, one of the most esteemed professions in the medical field, involves diagnosing and treating various illnesses, injuries, and health conditions. Physicians can specialize in numerous areas such as pediatrics, cardiology, oncology, surgery, and more. This career path necessitates comprehensive education and training, including medical school and residency programs.
2. Nurse Practitioner: As advanced practice registered nurses, nurse practitioners offer primary and specialty healthcare services. They diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, and formulate treatment plans. Often, they work independently or in collaboration with physicians, enjoying a high degree of autonomy and responsibility.
3. Physician Assistant: Working under the guidance of physicians, physician assistants deliver healthcare services to patients. They perform physical exams, diagnose illnesses, order and interpret tests, and assist in surgeries. They can be found in various settings like hospitals, clinics, and private practices. To become a physician assistant, completion of a relevant program and obtaining licensure is necessary.
4. Pharmacist: Pharmacists are integral to healthcare, dispensing medications, providing drug information, and guiding patients on correct usage. They are employed in pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. To practice, pharmacists must complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program and obtain licensure.
5. Physical Therapist: Physical therapists assist patients in recovering from injuries or illnesses by creating personalized treatment plans that include exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques. They work with patients of all ages to enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and prevent disability. To become a physical therapist, earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and obtaining licensure is required.
6. Medical Researcher: Medical researchers undertake studies to enhance our knowledge of diseases, treatments, and healthcare practices. They contribute to medical knowledge and innovation in laboratories, universities, pharmaceutical companies, and government agencies. A career in medical research typically necessitates a graduate degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a relevant field.
These are just a handful of the rewarding careers in the medical field that you might want to consider, based on your interests and aspirations. It's crucial to explore various options, reflect on your strengths and preferences, and seek advice from professionals to make a well-informed decision about your future career path.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
1. Mayo Clinic: Known for its expertise in patient care, research, and education, the Mayo Clinic is a leading medical institution. Their website offers trustworthy information on a variety of medical topics and career paths in healthcare.
2. American Medical Association (AMA): Representing physicians across the United States, the AMA provides valuable insights into different medical careers and educational pathways for those aspiring to be healthcare professionals.
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on occupational outlooks, including job growth projections, salary information, and educational requirements for various professions in the healthcare industry. Their reports can assist individuals in making informed decisions about their career choices in the medical field.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine.
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Medicine, in general, is a fantastic field to go into. There will always be jobs and those jobs can be both satisfying and financially lucrative. But "medicine" refers to a broad field and narrowing down what you'd like to focus on can be a challenge. The first step is to look within and answer the question of what you see yourself doing on a day-by-day basis. Do you want to be an MD, directing a patient's care, or are you looking for a more ancillary role like x-ray technologist or radiation therapist? How much time do you want to devote to your education (and debt) and how much is money a motivator? Start a list of those jobs that have already interested you and start exploring oth3er paths you may not be so familiar with. Whatever you choose, I hope it brings you joy and satisfaction!
Decide how much time and money are able and willing to put towards your education. Many medical degrees require only an associate's degree versus a bachelor's or doctorate.
Check out course catalogs for local community colleges and universities. Review offerings in healthcare to get a sense of what careers exist, maybe introducing you to a few you weren't aware of.
For specific careers that interest you, look for Facebook groups linked to that role and ask questions of the professionals already working in your field of interest.
If you are certain the medical field is your future, start developing a basic knowledge by learning medical terminology - it will be invaluable as you move forward in your studies.
Nicole recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Kathan’s Answer
Freya, your interest in the medical field is a promising start to a fulfilling career. Since you're still in high school, it's the perfect time to explore various medical professions. Here's what I advise you to do:
Identify Your Interests: Think about what excites you most about medicine. Is it patient care, research, technology, or something else?
Shadow Professionals: Contact local healthcare facilities to see if you can shadow doctors, nurses, or other healthcare professionals. This real-world experience will provide valuable insights.
Volunteer: Volunteer at hospitals or clinics. It's a hands-on way to see different aspects of the medical profession.
Educational Focus: Focus on science and math subjects, as they are foundational for medical careers. Consider taking advanced classes if possible.
Seek Guidance: Talk to a career counselor at your school or find a mentor in the medical field who can provide personalized advice and support.
Remember, Freya, this journey is yours, and it's okay to take the time to explore and find the right path for you. Stay curious, proactive, and never hesitate to ask for guidance. Your passion and determination will lead you to a rewarding career in medicine.
Identify Your Interests: Think about what excites you most about medicine. Is it patient care, research, technology, or something else?
Shadow Professionals: Contact local healthcare facilities to see if you can shadow doctors, nurses, or other healthcare professionals. This real-world experience will provide valuable insights.
Volunteer: Volunteer at hospitals or clinics. It's a hands-on way to see different aspects of the medical profession.
Educational Focus: Focus on science and math subjects, as they are foundational for medical careers. Consider taking advanced classes if possible.
Seek Guidance: Talk to a career counselor at your school or find a mentor in the medical field who can provide personalized advice and support.
Remember, Freya, this journey is yours, and it's okay to take the time to explore and find the right path for you. Stay curious, proactive, and never hesitate to ask for guidance. Your passion and determination will lead you to a rewarding career in medicine.
Updated
eva’s Answer
Hi,
I am not sure what you mean by good, if you mean high-paying jobs or degrees that don't require a lot of school and becoming a MD. I am not a medical specialist but I know about careers. When I was younger there were certain number of jobs that were highly competitive like sports or entertainment jobs, however over the years the population of the world has increased immensely and almost all jobs in all are somewhat competitive so I recommend looking into in what jobs in the filed are required and there is a shortage by a notable amount so that by the time you finish your studies, you can stand a good chance of having a satisfying career, bear in mind to select something that you love and would enjoy doing day-in day-out.
You can always research into things like this but since you don't know what website to trust, here is what I do and so far it has worked but you need a lot of patience and time. I look into all the articles that I could possibly find online and write down the top ten responses and see what pops up at the top. For example, if I want to buy a car and don't know which small car is better, I may turn to some articles. But the entities that write the articles all may be paid by various companies to add a certain car to their list but none can truly deny the best so there will be a few that no matter what will be listed in every article. Then once you have those, you can look into each one a little more and find the best car for you!
Here are some articles to get you started:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/medical-careers-in-demand
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home.htm
https://www.ultimatemedical.edu/blog/fastest-growing-healthcare-careers/
https://www.herzing.edu/blog/5-key-healthcare-jobs-high-demand-moving-2022
Perhaps this is one you should look at:
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/10/15/the-11-fastest-growing-jobs-in-health-care-over-the-next-decade-.html
Wishing you much success and happiness in whatever you chose.
Eva
I am not sure what you mean by good, if you mean high-paying jobs or degrees that don't require a lot of school and becoming a MD. I am not a medical specialist but I know about careers. When I was younger there were certain number of jobs that were highly competitive like sports or entertainment jobs, however over the years the population of the world has increased immensely and almost all jobs in all are somewhat competitive so I recommend looking into in what jobs in the filed are required and there is a shortage by a notable amount so that by the time you finish your studies, you can stand a good chance of having a satisfying career, bear in mind to select something that you love and would enjoy doing day-in day-out.
You can always research into things like this but since you don't know what website to trust, here is what I do and so far it has worked but you need a lot of patience and time. I look into all the articles that I could possibly find online and write down the top ten responses and see what pops up at the top. For example, if I want to buy a car and don't know which small car is better, I may turn to some articles. But the entities that write the articles all may be paid by various companies to add a certain car to their list but none can truly deny the best so there will be a few that no matter what will be listed in every article. Then once you have those, you can look into each one a little more and find the best car for you!
Here are some articles to get you started:
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/medical-careers-in-demand
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/home.htm
https://www.ultimatemedical.edu/blog/fastest-growing-healthcare-careers/
https://www.herzing.edu/blog/5-key-healthcare-jobs-high-demand-moving-2022
Perhaps this is one you should look at:
https://www.cnbc.com/2021/10/15/the-11-fastest-growing-jobs-in-health-care-over-the-next-decade-.html
Wishing you much success and happiness in whatever you chose.
Eva