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Careers in the medical field are in high demand and that demand is expected to create continuous growth in the next decade. Some jobs will see more growth than others but they will all provide ample opportunity to embark on a fulfilling career in the field of medicine. This demand is greatest for:
Physicians
Even though insurance rates have increased and managed care has tightened the financial reins in many areas, doctors are top-earners in the medical field. While some doctors earn more than others, such as surgeons and specialists, most can find themselves in a position where they can earn over six figures, even as a family practice doctor. By 2016, it is estimated that the demand for medical doctors will rise up to 20%.
Registered Nurses
Registered nurses are an essential component of the health care industry and its structure. They assist doctors with certain patient care procedures, such as inserting an IV and running simple tests. Roughly 15% of those who work in health care are nurses. The need for qualified registered nurses has been projected to increase by 25% over the next ten years.
Medical Assistants
By 2016, the need for medical assistants will experience an explosive growth of over 36%. A certified medical assistant is a highly sought commodity. Medical assistants are employed in either a clinical capacity or an administrative role. The clinical medical assistant can check vital signs, record height and weight and collect various types of samples for testing. For those medical assistants with extensive training beyond their initial degree, they will be tasked with more responsibility and better pay. These medical assistants are able to place IVs, collect blood and distribute medications to patients.
Physician Assistants
Often simply called PAs, physician assistants are trained to practice medicine under the supervision of a doctor. They are qualified to diagnose certain conditions, provide many kinds of treatment and they are also permitted to prescribe certain non-narcotic medications. The need for physician assistants will grow at a rate of 30% by the year 2020.
Medicine is an ever changing, ever growing and ever advancing field. The need is great, now more than ever, for qualified, educated and hardworking medical professionals. Now is the perfect time to enter the field of medicine. Many local and community colleges have started offering degree programs for the many varieties of medical career options available. The sky is the limit for those who obtain degrees and are licensed and registered to work in medicine.
Jerry is a senior programmer for Brit Systems, a technology company in the medical industry. His company installs and integrates various medical imaging systems.