The 10 Top-Paying, Most Exciting Jobs in the Medical Field

For the first time ever, healthcare industry jobs have surpassed both manufacturing and retail. In fact, healthcare is now the largest source of employment in the country.

There will always be a need for healthcare services. And with technology providing new ways to treat medical issues, healthcare jobs have exploded.

In addition to job security, working in the medical field presents the opportunity to make a great living while helping others. If typical office culture isn’t for you, working in healthcare may be the step you need to take.

Let’s breakdown 10 top-paying jobs in the medical field

1. General Physician

One of the most common jobs in the medical industry is that of a general physician (family doctor). They provide an invaluable resource for a wide range of medical issues.

Physicians provide care for everything from minor colds to long-term health problems. With the aging population rising in the United States, demand for general physicians will continue to grow.

General physicians must take on countless challenges on a daily basis, from diagnosing patients to forming treatment plans. Depending on their area of specialization, physicians may also perform operations.

Although the schooling required to become a physician is extensive, annual salaries are well into the triple digits.

2. Obstetrician

What could be more fulfilling than helping someone bring a new child into the world? This is the life of an obstetrician.

This medical field concentrates on pregnancy and childbirth, along with the postpartum period. An obstetrician guides woman through their entire pregnancy, ensuring they’re on the right track for giving birth to a healthy baby.

Many obstetricians also opt to practice gynecology as well, which focuses on women’s health and the reproductive system. In addition to being extremely fulfilling, these are also two of the most lucrative practices in the medical field.

3. Pharmacist

If you’re more interested in medications, becoming a pharmacist may be perfect for you.

Pharmacists prepare and dispense prescription medications to patients. They’re also responsible for consulting with patients regarding dosages, side-effects and proper use of medications.

This a more customer-facing job than a doctor. Most pharmacists typically work in public drug stores.

There are specialized schools for pharmacists. Once you’ve completed your degree you’ll enjoy a healthy salary with plenty of job opportunities.

4. Nurse Anesthetist

This highly specialized position involves the administration of anesthesia during surgeries or medical procedures. A nurse anesthetist earns one of the highest salaries in the nursing field.

Consider becoming an anesthetist if you want more experience in a surgical or intensive care setting. This is a perfect transition for registered nurses wanting more responsibility.

A nurse anesthetist also monitors patients who are recovering from surgery. They work on scheduled surgeries and also in emergency rooms.

This job requires a Master’s degree and certification from the National Boards of Certification and Recertification of Nurse Anesthetists.

• Must See – 10 Nurse Essentials That Every Good Medical Workers Needs

5. Nurse Practitioner

There’s currently a high demand for nurse practitioners throughout the country. This job pays well and provides people with the opportunity to expand their medical knowledge and further their career.

Nurse practitioners perform many of the same jobs doctors do. They provide either primary or specialty health care for individuals or families.

A big component of their job involves accessing patients’ needs and helping them manage illnesses or other health issues. They also help patients’ integrate treatment techniques into their everyday lives.

If you truly want to make a difference in a person’s life, consider joining this growing profession.

6. Physician’s Assistant

If you’re thinking of becoming a doctor, working as a physician’s assistant first is a great idea. Aside from the firsthand experience, this position offers a six-digit salary.

Physician’s assistants provide support to doctors and medical teams. They work under the supervision of surgeons, doctors, or other healthcare professionals.

This is a fast-paced, exciting job. Assistants typically work in hospitals or healthcare facilities. They help diagnose illnesses, assist in surgical procedures, and work with patients on treatment plans.

If you’re looking for an exciting job in a healthcare facility, use this portal to search for hospital jobs in your area.

7. Health Services Manager

Also referred to as a healthcare executive, a health services manager provides administrative support for medical organizations. This job focuses more on planning, directing and other managerial responsibilities.

A health services manager is responsible for managing either an entire medical facility or a single department. They may also work with an individual medical practice.

This is an integral position for any medical organization. Health services managers work in an office setting and need a BA along with experience in the administrative field. Clinical experience is also preferred.

8. Optometrist

The advanced technology now used in optometry makes this a very exciting and dynamic field. Optometrists help patients with vision problems and other eye-related issues.

There’s a common misconception that optometrists simply fit people with glasses or contact lenses. However, there’s much more to this job.

An optometrist helps with:

• Diseases or disorders affecting the eyes
• Eye injuries
• Diagnosing vision issues
• Providing ongoing vision correction

Optometrists enjoy high salaries and have the opportunity to open their own practice in their community.

9. Physical Therapist

A physical therapist helps patients during the recovery process. This typically takes place after an injury or as a result of an illness.

Physical therapists help people restore mobility and reduce handicaps related to permanent disabilities. They can also help provide pain management techniques.

Many physical therapists work exclusively with athletes or as a part of a healthcare organization. The requirements for becoming a physical therapist vary from state to state. However, most states require a Bachelor’s degree along with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree.

10. Radiation Therapist

This is a field within radiation oncology. Radiation therapists help cancer patients by developing and administering radiation treatment.

They also monitor patients’ progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as they see fit.

This field only requires an Associate’s degree along with a one-year certification program. However, there are also Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs.

Which of These Jobs in the Medical Field is Right For You?

If you want to make a difference in peoples’ lives while also earning a great salary, the healthcare industry is your best option. Choose one of these top-paying jobs in the medical field and get started on your path to an exciting career.

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