Top 8 Healthcare Careers in 2023

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The healthcare industry is one of the most extensive and fastest-growing fields. With advancements in medical technology, the demand for healthcare professionals has increased. From direct patient care roles to administrative and management positions, countless career opportunities in healthcare offer job security, competitive salaries, and the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether you are a recent graduate exploring career options or a healthcare professional looking to transition to a new role, this blog will provide valuable insights into the top healthcare careers to consider in 2023. 

1. Healthcare Manager

Healthcare management is a critical aspect of the healthcare industry. Pursuing a career as a healthcare manager with an MBA can be an excellent way to prepare for a leadership role. 

One of the primary responsibilities of healthcare managers is to ensure that healthcare facilities are financially viable. They are responsible for managing budgets, negotiating contracts with vendors and insurance companies, and finding ways to reduce costs without compromising patient care. It requires a thorough understanding of the healthcare industry, financial management, and budgeting skills.

An MBA with concentration in healthcare administration helps you learn healthcare policy and regulation, finance and accounting, operations, strategic planning, and leadership. It can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed as a healthcare manager. In the US, the average yearly salary for an entry-level healthcare manager is around $51,000.

2. Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) who have completed a master’s or doctoral degree program and are licensed to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Their role involves performing physical exams, taking medical histories, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and prescribing medications. In many states, NPs can manage patient medication regimens in collaboration with physicians.

Nurse practitioners earn competitive salaries, with the median annual wage in the United States at $117,670, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. They have the flexibility to work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and nursing homes. 

3. Occupational Therapist

A career in occupational therapy means working with individuals who have physical, mental, or developmental conditions that affect their ability to perform daily activities. Occupational therapists work with patients to help them recover from injuries or disabilities that limit their ability to perform everyday tasks. They do this by assessing their patients’ abilities, developing treatment plans, and providing therapy and training in adaptive techniques and assistive devices.

Occupational therapists may work in hospitals, clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers, and long-term care facilities. They work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and physical therapists, to provide extensive care to their patients.

The annual wage of an occupational therapist is around $95,000 in 2023.

4. Dietitian

With so many health problems linked to poor dietary habits, dietitians are essential in helping individuals and communities achieve and maintain optimal health. Dietitians can provide evidence-based guidance and practical advice on how to make healthy food choices, plan nutritious meals, and achieve specific health goals. They work with people of all ages and backgrounds, from infants and children to seniors and athletes, to help them optimize their health through food and nutrition.

Dietitians also play a critical role in public health, developing and implementing programs and policies that promote healthy eating and address food insecurity and malnutrition.

In 2023, the role of a dietitian is expected to become even more critical with an increasing number of health challenges related to diet and lifestyle.

5. Physiotherapist

Physiotherapy involves prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of problems related to movement. One of the roles of a physiotherapist is to help patients recover from injury or illness and regain mobility and physical function. They may also specialize in specific areas of practice, such as sports medicine or geriatrics. This diversity of options allows them to find a career path that aligns with their interests and passions.

According to a survey, the median annual wage for physical therapists in the United States is around $100,000 as of Feb 2023. However, it can vary depending on the experience and certifications of the professional.

6. Dentist

A career in dentistry is rewarding professionally and financially, with a positive outlook for growth and advancement. The role of dentists is vital in preventing and treating dental problems and disorders, including cavities, gum diseases, and oral cancers. They examine patients’ teeth and gums, perform X-rays and other diagnostic tests, and develop treatment plans to address dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, or tooth loss. Furthermore, dentists educate patients about good oral hygiene practices and preventative care. 

To become a dentist, one typically needs to complete a bachelor’s degree and then attend dental school to earn a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. If you like dentistry but don’t like the idea of spending years on education, you can become a dental assistant by attending dental assistant schools Arizona. The job outlook for dentists can vary depending on the location, specialty, and type of practice. According to a survey, total employment in dentistry is expected to increase by 6% between 2021 and 2031.

7. Psychiatrist 

The field of psychiatry is a career path for those interested in helping individuals struggling with mental health issues. Psychiatrists play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by diagnosing and treating mental illnesses like schizophrenia, providing counseling and therapy, and helping individuals to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. 

It may also include interviews, psychological tests, and physical exams to evaluate a patient’s symptoms and develop a diagnosis.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of psychiatrists is projected to grow by 8.7% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for most occupations. The average annual salary for psychiatrists in the United States is over $220,000.

8. Anesthesiologist

A career of an anesthesiologist is about administering anesthesia to patients undergoing surgery or other medical procedures. An anesthesiologist ensures patient safety and comfort during surgical procedures. They are responsible for assessing a patient’s medical history and overall health to determine the most appropriate type and dosage of anesthesia. 

As an anesthesiologist, you are responsible for monitoring a patient’s vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, during the administration of anesthesia and throughout the procedure.

The job outlook for anesthesiologists is positive, with a projected growth rate of 1.1% from 2020 to 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). 

Conclusion

Choosing a career in healthcare can be rewarding. With the increasing demand for healthcare services, these careers offer a bright outlook with a high potential for job growth and advancement. Besides personal and professional development opportunities, they offer a sense of fulfillment and purpose. We hope the eight career paths mentioned above will guide you in choosing your field in healthcare and excel in it.