How to Choose the Right Healthcare Career Training for You: A Step-by-Step Guide
The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, offering a wide array of career opportunities across various fields. As we move toward 2025, there’s a continued surge in demand for healthcare professionals, and the paths to entering the field are increasingly diverse. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right healthcare career training program. Whether you're interested in clinical care, health administration, or technology-driven roles, finding the right fit is essential for building a successful and fulfilling career.
This step-by-step guide will help you understand how to evaluate healthcare career training options, the critical factors to consider, and how to align your personal strengths and interests with your professional aspirations. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your healthcare career path.
Step 1: Understand the Different Types of Healthcare Careers
Healthcare is an expansive and dynamic field that offers a wide range of career paths. As you explore the various career opportunities, it’s essential to understand the three primary categories of healthcare professions: direct patient care, healthcare administration, and healthcare technology. Each category encompasses diverse roles, so taking the time to understand these categories will help you focus your search on programs and careers that align with your strengths, interests, and long-term goals.
Direct Patient Care
Direct patient care involves roles that require individuals to interact with patients to diagnose, treat, and care for their medical needs. These professionals work closely with patients in a variety of settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics and private homes. Direct patient care careers are essential to the healthcare system and often involve a hands-on approach to improving patients’ health and well-being.
Nursing (RN, NP, CRNA):
Nurses are among the most vital healthcare professionals, providing a broad spectrum of care across various healthcare settings. Registered Nurses (RNs) are responsible for patient care management, monitoring patients' health, administering medications, and educating patients on their conditions. With a growing aging population and increasing healthcare needs, nurses are in high demand.
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) go beyond traditional nursing roles by diagnosing illnesses, prescribing treatments, and managing overall patient care. NPs have the autonomy to work in specific specialties such as pediatrics, gerontology, or family medicine.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) specialize in anesthesia administration, providing pain management for patients during surgeries or medical procedures. This advanced practice role requires additional education and certifications but offers higher earning potential and autonomy.
Physical Therapy:
Physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapy assistants (PTAs) help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses by guiding them through tailored exercises and therapies. PTs evaluate patients’ physical conditions, diagnose mobility issues, and develop personalized treatment plans. Physical therapy is often used to address chronic pain, post-surgical recovery, and rehabilitation after accidents or injuries.
Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) work under the supervision of physical therapists and assist patients in performing exercises, applying modalities like heat or cold therapy, and tracking progress. With the growth in healthcare needs, physical therapy roles are expected to rise, and the demand for PTAs is especially high.
Dental Hygiene:
Dental hygienists are essential for preventing oral diseases and promoting oral health. They work alongside dentists to provide routine dental care, such as teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and taking dental X-rays. Dental hygienists also educate patients about proper oral hygiene practices and how to prevent oral diseases. As dental care becomes more widely recognized for its importance to overall health, the need for dental hygienists is steadily increasing.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS):
EMS professionals, including paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), respond to medical emergencies in the field. They are often the first point of care for patients in critical conditions, providing life-saving interventions, administering medications, and stabilizing patients before transporting them to medical facilities. EMS professionals are often the first responders in accidents, heart attacks, and other medical emergencies, playing a crucial role in saving lives.
Healthcare Administration
Healthcare administration involves managing the operations of healthcare facilities and organizations. This category includes roles that require individuals to ensure healthcare services are efficiently provided, budgets are adhered to, staffing is appropriate, and all regulations are met. Professionals in healthcare administration often work behind the scenes to ensure that healthcare systems function smoothly and effectively.
Healthcare Managers:
Healthcare managers or administrators are responsible for overseeing the operations of healthcare organizations such as hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, or healthcare systems. They manage budgets, create staffing plans, ensure compliance with healthcare regulations, and work to improve patient care delivery. Healthcare management roles require a blend of business acumen and healthcare knowledge to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system.
Clinical Managers oversee specific departments within a healthcare facility, such as surgery, emergency care, or rehabilitation.
Hospital Administrators manage overall operations at larger healthcare facilities and ensure all departments work cohesively.
Medical Office Administration:
Medical office administrators play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of healthcare offices and clinics. They handle scheduling, patient intake, billing, insurance verification, and maintaining patient records. Their responsibilities ensure that the medical staff can focus on patient care while administrative tasks are handled efficiently. As healthcare continues to evolve with digital records and insurance changes, medical office administrators are becoming integral to maintaining smooth operations.
Healthcare Technology
Healthcare technology is one of the fastest-growing fields in the healthcare industry. This category includes roles that revolve around using advanced technology, data systems, and digital tools to support patient care, enhance administrative tasks, and improve healthcare delivery overall. As healthcare continues to move toward digital solutions, the demand for skilled technology professionals is skyrocketing.
Health IT Specialists:
Health IT professionals manage and protect healthcare data, focusing on everything from Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to telemedicine systems. Their role is vital in ensuring patient information is secure and accessible to healthcare providers when needed. With the rise of digital health records, telemedicine, and patient monitoring systems, health IT specialists are integral to modern healthcare systems. This field has grown rapidly and is projected to continue expanding as more healthcare systems integrate digital technologies.
Medical Coding and Billing:
Medical coders and billers are responsible for translating medical diagnoses, procedures, and treatments into standardized codes for billing purposes. Coders ensure that healthcare providers are reimbursed accurately by insurance companies and that patient records are maintained according to regulatory standards. As healthcare becomes increasingly digitized, the need for trained professionals in coding and billing continues to grow. Medical coders typically work in hospitals, insurance companies, or medical billing companies, while billing specialists focus on ensuring that payment processes are efficient and accurate.
Radiologic Technologists:
Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment like X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRIs to capture images that are essential for diagnosing injuries, diseases, and conditions. These technologists are integral to the diagnostic process and work closely with physicians to ensure that patients receive accurate diagnoses. The rise in imaging technologies and the growing demand for diagnostic services have resulted in a continuous need for qualified radiologic technologists. As a result, this field has a promising job outlook, and the demand for skilled technologists is expected to continue rising.
Step 2: Reflect on Your Interests, Skills, and Personality
Choosing the right healthcare career requires careful reflection on your personal interests, strengths, and personality. The healthcare industry is diverse, offering a wide range of roles that cater to different skill sets and preferences. While understanding the job opportunities available is crucial, aligning those opportunities with your unique abilities and passions is equally important. Below are some factors to help you assess which healthcare career path best suits you:
Interest in Working with People
If you genuinely enjoy interacting with others, healthcare careers that involve direct patient contact might be a perfect match for you. Roles like nursing, physical therapy, and dental hygiene require individuals to engage with patients on a daily basis, providing care, comfort, and education.
Nursing: Nurses spend significant time with patients, providing both physical care and emotional support. If you have a compassionate nature and enjoy making a direct impact on people’s lives, nursing could be a fulfilling career choice.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapists work closely with patients to help them recover from injuries and improve mobility. This career combines physical activity with patient interaction and is perfect for those who enjoy hands-on care.
Dental Hygiene: Dental hygienists interact with patients by providing preventative care, such as cleaning teeth and educating patients on oral hygiene. This role balances direct care with a focus on prevention.
If you find satisfaction in helping people and enjoy personal interaction, these roles will allow you to make a positive difference in people’s health and well-being.
However, if you prefer a more technical or behind-the-scenes role, consider professions such as healthcare IT, medical coding, or laboratory technology. These careers often focus on working with data or systems rather than interacting with patients, making them ideal for individuals who excel at problem-solving and analytical thinking.
Desire for Hands-On Work
Do you thrive in environments where you can engage physically and see immediate results? If you are someone who enjoys being physically active and working directly with patients, roles like surgical technology, radiologic technology, and physical therapy may be ideal for you. These roles not only allow you to help patients directly but also give you the chance to see the immediate impact of your work, whether it’s through a successful surgery, a clear diagnostic image, or a patient’s improved mobility.
Surgical Technology: Surgical technologists assist during surgeries by preparing instruments and ensuring a sterile environment. If you enjoy the intensity and precision of surgery, this could be a rewarding career.
Radiologic Technology: Radiologic technologists capture images of the body using X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. If you enjoy using technology to assist in diagnosing diseases or injuries, radiologic technology can offer a hands-on, patient-centered role.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapists guide patients through exercises to improve mobility and relieve pain. This role combines patient interaction with therapeutic hands-on techniques.
Step 3: Research Education and Training Requirements
One of the most crucial steps in selecting the right healthcare career is understanding the education and certification requirements for the roles you're considering. Some healthcare positions require only a few months of training or certification, while others demand years of formal education. Gaining a clear understanding of these educational paths early on will help you plan your career effectively and avoid unnecessary delays in reaching your professional goals.
Short-Term Training Programs
Certain healthcare careers allow you to enter the workforce relatively quickly, thanks to short-term training programs that provide the skills needed for entry-level positions. These programs typically range from 6 months to 1 year and can be a great option for those eager to start their careers without committing to long educational timelines.
Medical Coding and Billing: Medical coders and billers play a key role in ensuring healthcare providers are reimbursed properly by translating diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes. Training programs for medical coding and billing can be completed in as little as 6 months to 1 year. Certification from organizations like AHIMA (American Health Information Management Association) or AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders) is often required. These programs focus on learning coding systems like ICD-10, CPT, and HCPCS and understanding insurance processes.
Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and maintaining patient records. The training for pharmacy technicians typically takes 9-12 months and includes coursework in pharmacology, drug interactions, and pharmacy law. After completing the training, certification from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) is required to work professionally. This role offers relatively quick entry into the healthcare field, with a high level of responsibility in medication safety.
Associate and Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Some healthcare careers require more extensive training, typically through Associate's or Bachelor’s degree programs. These programs provide foundational knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing you for more specialized roles.
Radiologic Technology: Radiologic technologists use imaging equipment to capture X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to diagnose medical conditions. To enter this field, you typically need an Associate Degree in Radiologic Technology, which takes about 2 years to complete. These programs include both classroom instruction in anatomy, patient care, and radiation safety, as well as clinical rotations for hands-on experience. Certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is typically required after graduation.
Nursing: Registered Nurses (RNs) are in high demand and can work in a wide range of healthcare settings. Most RNs complete a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), which typically takes 4 years to complete. A BSN program includes coursework in nursing theory, patient care, and health science, along with clinical rotations in various healthcare settings. RNs may also choose to pursue additional certifications or specialties to advance their careers. Upon completing the program, nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN licensing exam.
Graduate Programs
For those seeking advanced roles with higher levels of responsibility, graduate programs are essential. These programs provide specialized training and education that prepare individuals for leadership positions in healthcare.
Advanced Practice Nursing: Becoming a Nurse Practitioner (NP) or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) requires additional education beyond the RN level. Both roles require a Master’s Degree in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which typically takes 2-4 years to complete after obtaining a BSN. NPs can specialize in areas such as pediatrics, family practice, or gerontology, while CRNAs specialize in anesthesia administration for surgeries. These advanced roles offer more autonomy and higher salaries.
Healthcare Administration: Professionals who want to manage healthcare facilities or lead healthcare teams typically pursue a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration (MHA) or a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on healthcare. These programs prepare graduates for leadership roles by focusing on topics like healthcare policy, finance, operations, and organizational behavior. Healthcare administrators often oversee the business aspects of hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. Graduates of these programs can expect to take on significant managerial and strategic planning roles.
Step 4: Consider Job Market Demand and Career Outlook
When choosing a healthcare career, it’s crucial to not only focus on your interests and skills but also consider the job market demand and career outlook for your chosen field. By 2025, many healthcare sectors are expected to experience significant growth, offering ample opportunities, while others may see more stable but less dramatic expansion. Choosing a healthcare career with strong job growth potential will ensure long-term job security, financial stability, and career satisfaction. Below, we break down some of the high-growth roles and specialized fields in healthcare, along with insights into their future job outlook.
High-Growth Roles
Some healthcare fields are experiencing rapid growth due to factors such as the aging population, technological advancements, and increasing healthcare needs. These roles are expected to see consistent demand over the coming years, making them a secure choice for career growth.
Nursing: Nursing continues to be one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers. With the aging baby boomer generation and an increasing need for healthcare services, the demand for nurses is projected to increase by 7% by 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Nurses work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, home healthcare, and long-term care facilities. As healthcare becomes more specialized, nurses will continue to play a critical role in delivering care to patients of all ages.
Healthcare IT: As healthcare systems continue to transition to digital platforms and the use of telemedicine rises, the demand for health IT professionals is growing. These experts manage Electronic Health Records (EHRs), cybersecurity systems, and telemedicine software, ensuring that patient information is secure and accessible. According to the BLS, healthcare IT roles are expected to grow by 11% through 2029—a rate significantly higher than the average for other occupations. The shift toward digital healthcare is driving this growth, making health IT a strong career choice with significant job security.
Specialized Roles
Specialized healthcare roles offer significant growth potential due to their focus on specific medical needs or advanced skills. These roles often require additional training or certification but provide excellent earning potential and job security.
Medical Coding and Billing: As the healthcare industry continues to digitize, medical coders and billers are in high demand. These professionals translate medical diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes used for insurance claims and billing purposes. The field of medical coding and billing is expected to grow by 8% by 2029, driven by the increasing adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the growing need for accurate coding in a complex healthcare environment. This field offers relatively short training periods (typically 6 months to 1 year) and the ability to work in a variety of healthcare settings.
Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs): With the rise in chronic diseases, aging populations, and a greater focus on physical rehabilitation, the demand for Physical Therapy Assistants (PTAs) is expected to skyrocket. Employment for PTAs is predicted to grow by an impressive 33% by 2029, according to the BLS. PTAs work under the supervision of physical therapists, helping patients recover from injuries and surgeries. The role requires a two-year associate degree and offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives, making it both rewarding and in high demand.
Step 5: Evaluate Training Options and Accreditation
Once you’ve chosen a healthcare career, it’s important to research the training programs available and ensure they are accredited. Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and adequately prepares you for the workforce. Many healthcare roles also require specific certifications, so it’s important to choose a program that provides the right qualifications for your desired role.
Accreditation
When selecting a healthcare training program, look for accredited institutions that have been recognized by reputable accrediting agencies. This ensures that the program meets high educational standards and prepares you for licensing and certification exams. Some key accrediting agencies include:
Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP): Accredits programs in allied health fields such as radiologic technology, surgical technology, and medical assisting.
Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN): Accredits nursing programs, including Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and advanced practice nursing programs.
Choosing an accredited program also ensures that you are eligible for professional certification and licensure in your state.
Financial Considerations
The cost of healthcare training can vary significantly depending on the program and institution. It’s important to research the cost of education and explore available financial aid options. Many healthcare training programs offer scholarships, grants, and loans to help offset tuition costs. Some options include:
Federal student loans: Available for qualified students attending accredited institutions.
Scholarships and grants: Many organizations, including professional healthcare associations, offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing healthcare careers.
Employer-sponsored programs: Some employers offer financial assistance for education in exchange for a commitment to work for a certain period after graduation.
Step 6: Gain Hands-On Experience
In healthcare, practical experience is essential for developing the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in real-world settings. While classroom learning provides foundational knowledge, hands-on experience in clinical or work environments is what truly prepares you for the challenges of the job. Many healthcare programs include clinical rotations, internships, or externships, allowing students to apply what they’ve learned in real-life situations.
For example, nursing students typically gain practical experience by working in hospitals or clinics during their clinical rotations. These rotations provide opportunities to work directly with patients, administering care, observing medical procedures, and collaborating with healthcare teams. By experiencing different healthcare settings, nursing students can hone their skills and gain valuable insight into patient care.
Radiologic technology students gain hands-on experience in imaging departments where they learn how to operate X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRIs. These students work under the supervision of experienced radiologic technologists, ensuring they can confidently perform diagnostic imaging procedures. By working in a clinical environment, they learn how to manage patients, ensure their safety, and produce high-quality images that help doctors diagnose medical conditions.
Similarly, medical coding students often complete externships where they gain real-world experience working with health information systems in healthcare facilities. Externships provide invaluable exposure to the administrative side of healthcare, allowing students to learn about patient records, coding systems, and billing procedures. This practical experience ensures that students are prepared to handle the complexities of medical coding and billing once they enter the workforce.
Step 7: Plan for Continuing Education and Certification
Healthcare is a dynamic and constantly evolving field. As new technologies, treatment methods, and best practices emerge, it’s essential to continue your education and certification throughout your career. Lifelong learning is crucial for staying updated, advancing in your career, and maintaining a competitive edge in the job market.
Continuing education is particularly important for healthcare professionals, as it enables them to stay abreast of the latest advancements in their field. For instance, nurses can pursue specialized certifications in areas such as pediatric nursing, oncology nursing, or critical care nursing. These certifications not only help nurses gain deeper expertise in a specific area but also open up new career opportunities and higher earning potential.
Similarly, healthcare managers can enhance their credentials by earning advanced certifications such as the Certified Healthcare Executive (CHE) or the Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE). These certifications demonstrate leadership abilities and expertise in healthcare management, which can be pivotal for career advancement in senior management or executive roles.
Continuing education helps healthcare professionals stay current with new trends, improve their practice, and provide the best possible care to patients. Many institutions, professional organizations, and online platforms offer continuing education courses, workshops, and certification programs tailored to different healthcare professions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right healthcare career training program requires careful thought and planning. By reflecting on your interests, researching career opportunities, and evaluating training and education requirements, you can make an informed decision about your future. Whether you’re passionate about patient care, administrative roles, or health technology, healthcare offers a wide range of career paths.
At ACMSO, we understand the importance of proper training in healthcare. That’s why we offer medical scribe certifications to help individuals enter a rapidly growing field. Our certification program equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed as a medical scribe and make a meaningful impact on healthcare delivery. If you’re ready to take the next step in your healthcare career, explore our certification programs today!
Lesser-Known Facts About Healthcare Careers:
Healthcare is the Largest Employer in the U.S.
The healthcare industry is the largest employer in the United States, employing over 18 million people. This includes a wide range of roles, from clinicians to administrative and technical staff.
Nurses Have Many Specialization Options Beyond General Care
While many people associate nursing with general care, nurses can specialize in fields like oncology, neonatal care, palliative care, cardiology, and mental health, leading to higher salaries and job security.
Medical Coding Can Be Done Remotely
With the increase in healthcare digitization, many medical coding professionals work from home, providing flexibility and a work-life balance. Medical coding is one of the fastest-growing remote healthcare careers.
Healthcare IT is Key to Data Protection
As healthcare systems digitalize, cybersecurity in healthcare has become essential. Healthcare data breaches are a significant concern, and healthcare IT professionals play a critical role in safeguarding patient data. Source: HealthIT.gov
Radiologic Technologists Work in More Than Just Hospitals
Radiologic technologists don’t just work in hospitals. They also work in outpatient clinics, sports medicine centers, dental offices, and even research labs. The variety of environments keeps the career dynamic and exciting. Source: ARRT
Medical Assistants Can Perform A Variety of Tasks
Medical assistants (MAs) are one of the most versatile roles in healthcare, performing administrative duties like scheduling and patient intake, as well as clinical tasks like taking vital signs, assisting with exams, and drawing blood. Source: AAMA
Pharmacy Technicians Can Work in Non-Traditional Settings
While most pharmacy technicians work in retail pharmacies, they can also work in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, long-term care facilities, and nursing homes. Many also take on roles in compounding (creating customized medications). Source: PTCB
Telemedicine is Changing Healthcare Accessibility
The rise of telemedicine has significantly changed how patients access care, especially in rural or underserved areas. Telehealth services allow healthcare providers to consult with patients remotely, improving access to healthcare. Source: HealthIT.gov
Dental Hygienists Play a Key Role in Preventing Systemic Diseases
Dental hygienists don’t just focus on oral health. They are increasingly recognized for their role in preventing systemic diseases, as oral health is linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Physical Therapy Assistants Can Work with Diverse Populations
Physical therapy assistants (PTAs) work with more than just injured athletes. They assist patients recovering from surgeries, aging adults with mobility issues, and children with developmental delays. Their diverse work settings include hospitals, rehab centers, schools, and sports teams. Source: APTA
FAQs About Healthcare Career Training
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Nursing, physical therapy, and healthcare IT are some of the fastest-growing healthcare careers, with high demand due to aging populations and the rise of digital healthcare.
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Yes, careers like medical coding, phlebotomy, and medical assisting offer certification programs that require less training time compared to degree-based professions.
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Salaries in healthcare vary widely. Registered nurses earn about $75,000, while healthcare managers can earn upwards of $100,000, depending on experience and specialization.
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High-demand roles include nursing, healthcare IT, medical coding, and physical therapy, driven by technological advancements and an aging population.
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Healthcare training programs range from 6 months to 4 years, depending on the role. Short-term certification programs take less time, while roles like nursing or physical therapy may require several years of study.