Exploring New Health Care Careers

Question:
I am currently working as a medical assistant, but I am thinking of branching into a different area in the field. I earned my associate's degree and CMA (AAMA) certification. What other health care careers can you suggest, and what are the degree requirements of each?

Answer:
The area of health care you choose depends on such factors as your preferred work environment and schedule.

Demand is high for hospital health care employees, and pay can be very good. You've probably heard a lot about the hospital nurse shortage, but there's also demand for x-ray and ultrasound technicians. Salaries are very competitive, especially because of overtime pay. A friend of mine began as an x-ray technician many years ago, and then took additional courses and exams to become an ultrasound technician. She loves her work, and although hours can be long, she enjoys high pay and a degree of autonomy on the job. This work requires an associate's degree.

If you'd prefer to keep doctor's office hours, you might consider dental hygiene, which also requires an associate's degree. Dental hygienists often enjoy flexible and part-time schedules and good pay. On the flip side, it's sometimes hard for dental hygienists to find full-time jobs with full benefits. Often, dentists prefer to hire dental hygienists on a part-time basis, providing them with limited benefits. Nurses and ultrasound techs can find work in doctor's offices, though pay is often lower than in hospitals. For more job flexibility and independence, you might also consider massage therapy or medical transcription.

Some of your medical assistant credits might transfer to another health care degree program, and many programs can be completed online.