Top Health Careers Of 2013

Top Health Careers Of 2013

If you are looking for a stable career that pays well, then you should definitely consider choosing a job in the health care field. There are a number of jobs that are becoming obsolete, but people will always need health care.


Top Health Careers Of 2013

Here are five of the top health careers of 2013:

Dentist

A dentist is a professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that can affect the teeth and the gums. They also give patients tips on how to properly brush and floss. The demand for dentists is increasing because there have been a number of studies done to confirm the link between oral health and general health. You will have to spend at least eight years in school if you want to become a dentist. Undergraduate school lasts four years and dental school also lasts four years. It is important to note that if you are interested in specializing in an area, such as cosmetic dentistry or pediatrics, then you are required to complete two or three years of additional training. The median salary for a dentist is $147,000 per year, so the time and effort that you put into your education will certainly pay off in terms of salary.

Radiologic Technologist

Radiology is a field of medicine that involves using x-rays and other forms of radiation to diagnose and treat illnesses. The specific job duties of a radiologic technologist may include maintaining and adjusting imaging equipment, preparing patients for procedures, using computerized equipment to take images, and keeping patient records. Radiologic technologists usually work under the direction of a radiologist, who is a medical doctor with extra training in radiology. You have the option of earning a certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree in radiology. The vast majority of students choose to earn an associate's degree. It takes two or three years to complete an associate's degree program. Certificate programs can be completed within six to twelve months. A bachelor's degree takes four or five years to complete. All radiology programs require that students complete a classroom and clinical portion. After you compete your training, you will be required to earn your license. The licensing requirements can vary greatly, depending on your state. The median annual salary for a radiologic technologist is $54,000.

Registered Nurse

Registered nurses are allied health professionals who coordinate and provide care for patients. The specific job duties of a registered nurse may include observing and recording observations, helping perform diagnostic tests and teaching patients how to manage their condition. Registered nurses also have the option of specializing in different areas, such as cardiology and pediatrics. An associate's degree is the minimum education that is required to become a registered nurse. However, some employers prefer to hire nurses with a bachelor's degree. It is also important to note that if you are interested in becoming a nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, nurse midwife, or nurse anesthetist, then you will have to complete a graduate program. Registered nurses make a median of $64,000 per year.

Dental Hygienist

If you want a career in health that does not require you to work long hours, then you should consider becoming a dental hygienist. Most dental hygienists work less than 35 hours per week, and they still make an average of $68,000 per year. They are responsible for cleaning and examining patients' teeth. An associate's degree is required to become a dental hygienist. Dental hygiene programs are typically offered at community and technical colleges. If you are interested in teaching at a college or conducting research, then you will most likely be required to earn a bachelor's or master's degree. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
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