There is a school of thought that says to earn big bucks as a healthcare provider you need to train as a doctor. After all, medical doctors do earn good salaries, and depending on the field of medicine you specialize in, you could be very wealthy by the time you retire. However, medical doctors are not necessarily the highest paid healthcare professionals, so if you would like a well-paid career in healthcare, but you do not want to be a medical doctor, read on for some alternative careers.
When it comes to earnings, qualifications matter. In essence, the better qualified you are, the more you can expect to earn. Therefore, if you have Master of Public Health on your CV, you will have better employment prospects than a graduate. It is always better try to attain the highest level of educational achievement possible. You can take a Masters in Public Health online if necessary, as public health degree online providers are flexible and affordable.
A qualification in Public Health is well worth considering, but here are some equally well-paid alternatives.
1. Pharmacist
Pharmacists are very well paid and can expect to earn in excess of $100k a year. To be a pharmacist, you would expect to study a science degree followed by a doctorate in pharmacy. Once you are qualified, you will be an expert in the composition and side effects of prescribed medications. You may run your own pharmacy or work within a hospital pharmacy.
2. Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists help to rehabilitate patients with sports related injuries or recovering from surgical procedures. Following an initial assessment, you would work out a treatment plan and help the patient work through various exercises. It can be a very rewarding career, particularly if you work with seriously injured patients who are able to regain their health once again. Physiotherapists need a science degree followed by accredited physical therapist certification. Once you are qualified, you can expect to earn in excess of $75k a year.
3. Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist works alongside a dentist, taking care of a patient’s oral hygiene. Whereas a dentist fixes problems, a dental hygienist is primarily responsible for preventing problems from occurring in the first place. You will clean teeth, look for signs of disease, and educate patients on appropriate dental hygiene. It is detailed work, but very rewarding if you like working closely with your patients. Dental hygienists are degree educated. Once qualified, they can expect to earn in excess of £67k a year.
4. Nursing
Nursing is a very broad profession covering a number of different specialist areas. Nurses are highly skilled. They assist doctors and often treat patients before the doctor has even had a chance to assess them. Nursing may choose to specialize in midwifery, mental health or a number of other areas. To be a nurse, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or a diploma from an accredited nursing program. Once qualified, you can expect to earn in excess of $66k a year.
Other careers worth considering include occupational health and safety, nutrition, and radiology.