Choosing a Healthcare Career: Unique Paths You Could Pursue

When people think of careers in the health and medical sector, doctors and nurses are usually the first roles that come to mind. However, the healthcare field is incredibly diverse, offering a wide range of unique and fulfilling career paths. Whether you're interested in hands-on patient care, artistic expression, technical expertise or completing an online MSN-FNP program, there's a place for you in this vast industry. Here are some lesser-known, but equally rewarding career options you might consider.

Audiologist

Audiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders. They work with patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, providing services such as hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and counseling on hearing loss prevention. 

To become an audiologist, you'll likely need a postgraduate level degree. Licensing requirements vary by state, so it's important to research the specific credentials needed where you plan to practice.

If you have a passion for helping people communicate and connect with the world around them, audiology could be a perfect fit for you. It's a growing field with strong job prospects and the opportunity to make a significant impact on patients' quality of life.

Art Therapist

Art therapists use creative expression as a therapeutic tool to help individuals cope with emotional and psychological issues. This career blends psychology and the arts, making it an excellent choice for those who have a strong interest in both areas.

A master’s degree in art therapy or a related field is typically required. Additionally, to be registered, you'll need to obtain certification from the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB). As with other healthcare professions, licensing requirements can differ from state to state.

Art therapy offers a unique way to help people heal and grow. It’s particularly effective for those who might have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, such as children or trauma survivors. If you have a creative spirit and a desire to help others, you might find art therapy to be a deeply fulfilling career.

Dietitian

Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They work with individuals and groups to promote healthy eating habits and manage various health conditions through diet. This role can be found in hospitals, schools, public health clinics, and private practices.

Becoming a dietitian requires at least a bachelor's degree in dietetics, nutrition, or a related field, followed by a supervised practice program and passing the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam. Some states have additional licensure requirements.

If you're passionate about food and wellness, a career as a dietitian allows you to turn that passion into a profession. Dietitians play a crucial role in preventing and managing health issues through nutrition, making a direct impact on individuals' wellbeing.

Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists work alongside dentists to provide preventive oral care. They clean teeth, examine patients for signs of oral diseases, and educate patients on maintaining good oral health.

An associate degree in dental hygiene is the typical educational requirement, followed by passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and obtaining a state license.

This career offers a good balance of patient interaction and technical work. It’s also one of the faster pathways to entering the healthcare field, with associate degree programs typically taking around two years to complete. Plus, dental hygienists typically enjoy flexible schedules and strong job security.

Medical Writer

Medical writers create a wide range of content, from research papers and regulatory documents to patient education materials and marketing copy for healthcare products. This career is ideal for those with a knack for writing and an interest in medical science.

While there isn’t a specific degree required, a background in life sciences, medicine, or journalism can be beneficial. Many medical writers also pursue certification through the American Medical Writers Association (AMWA).

Medical writing offers the opportunity to stay at the forefront of medical advancements without working directly with patients. It’s a versatile career with options to work in academia, at pharmaceutical companies, in healthcare marketing, and more.

Medical Illustrator

Medical illustrators combine their artistic skills with knowledge of the human body to create images that aid in medical education, research, and patient care. Their work can be found in textbooks, journals, instructional videos, and medical apps.

A master’s degree in medical illustration from an accredited program is typically required for this line of work. Additionally, certification through the Board of Certification of Medical Illustrators (BCMI) can enhance job prospects.

If you have a talent for art and an interest in science, medical illustration offers a unique blend of both. This career allows you to contribute to the medical field in a visually impactful way, helping to educate healthcare professionals and patients alike.

MRI Technologist

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists operate MRI scanners to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures. These images are crucial for diagnosing a variety of conditions.

An associate degree in radiologic technology or a related field is typically required, along with specialized training in MRI. Certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is also necessary, and some states may have additional licensing requirements.

This career combines patient care with technical expertise. MRI technologists play a vital role in the diagnostic process, working with cutting-edge technology to help detect and monitor medical conditions.

The healthcare sector offers a myriad of career opportunities beyond the well-trodden paths of medicine and nursing. No matter what you are specifically interested in, there's a niche for you within the healthcare and medical fields. Each of these careers requires specific training and credentials, so be sure to research the requirements for your state. 

The best part about healthcare is that there are always opportunities to find work, and new roles continue to come about as modern medicine develops. 

By exploring these unique paths, not only can you find a fulfilling career that matches your interests and talents, you could be taking on a very important, selfless and rewarding role by contributing to the wellbeing of others — playing an incredibly important role in society.