Featured Careers: The 20 Best Careers in Medicine and Healthcare

We all know that the doctor is the highest paid in the world? But this is not always true in all countries… In the following list, find out about distinguished jobs in medicine and the field of health that really enrich you to think about studying medicine . You don’t need to be a doctor to get a high paying job in healthcare. Non-doctors can also get some of the highest paying jobs in healthcare! So with the exponential rise in the need for health care managers, physician assistants, consultants, and more, higher and higher salaries are being paid to health care professionals. These positions are part of a healthcare team focused on holistic wellness and disease treatment and prevention. This article explores the 20 highest paid non-physician jobs in healthcare, according to the 2022 edition of the Bureau of World Labor Statistics’ Occupational Handbook. We will define the following:

• average salary
• Expected rise in employment rates
• necessary education
• Other relevant job-related information

20 Distinguished Jobs in Healthcare and Medicine

20. Respiratory Therapist

If you have ever sought treatment for difficulty breathing, you may have seen a respiratory therapist. Respiratory therapists treat a variety of breathing disorders including chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or emphysema. The patients they treat range from newborns with an underdeveloped lung to elderly patients with lung disease.

• Average salary:  $60,280
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected increase of 23% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  University degree or diploma.

Additional information: Although the minimum requirement to become a respiratory therapist is an associate’s degree, respiratory therapists need to obtain a license in their own countries or other countries to work such as America or Europe. Employment is expected to rise at a much faster rate than average due to growth in middle-aged and older populations, who are more susceptible to respiratory diseases.

19. Jobs in the field of nutrition

Dietitians are health care professionals who are experts in the field of food and nutrition. They use their knowledge to promote a healthy diet and manage disease. Dietitians and nutritionists are valuable resources in the treatment of obesity and diabetes.

• Average salary:  $60,370
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 15% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree as a minimum

Additional information: Continued growth is expected for dietician roles as we learn more about the relationship between diet and general health. Get scholarships to study Nutrition

18. Radiology and MRI technicians

Other premium healthcare jobs for non-physicians that pay well are radiology and MRI technologists. These professionals, known as radiographers, perform imaging services such as X-rays . MRI technologists are trained to provide patients with MRI scans to aid clinicians with diagnosis.

• Average salary:  $61,240
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 13% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Diploma or university degree.

Additional information: The employment of radiologists or MRIs is expected to grow by approximately 30,300 jobs through 2026. Most professionals need a university degree and become licensed or certified in their home countries.

17. Cardiovascular technician jobs

Diagnostic imaging technicians and technicians include medical ultrasonographers and cardiovascular technologists, also called diagnostic imaging workers.  They use specialized equipment to create images or perform tests that help doctors make informed diagnoses. Most of these professionals work in hospitals but some work in doctors’ offices or in laboratories.

• Average salary:  $67,080
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 17% between 2016 and 2026
• Education required:  Bachelor’s degree or diploma.

Additional Information: This diverse field expects much faster than average growth rates, with about 68,200 new jobs expected globally by 2026.

16. Orthopedic and Prosthetics Specialist

Orthopedists and prosthetists are among the non-physician health care providers with the highest paid jobs. These professionals design, manufacture, measure and fit orthotics and prosthetics for all ages. They work with artificial limbs, and other medical or surgical prosthetic devices.

• Average salary:  $69,120
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected 22% rise between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  A minimum of a master’s degree after another medical specialty.

Additional Information: The demand for orthopedic and prosthetic professionals is expected to continue to grow as the baby boom enters old age. Cardiovascular disease and diabetes, among the main causes of limb loss, are more common among the elderly.

15. Occupational health and safety specialist and technician

Meeting health and safety standards in the workplace is something that all organizations strive for. Occupational health and safety professionals are at the forefront of health and safety in the workplace. Non-physician paying healthcare providers collect and analyze data via a variety of statistics, analyzes, and conclusions.

• Average salary:  $69,370
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected 8% rise between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree as a minimum

Additional Information: Positions in occupational health and safety technology are expected to grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth forecast is based on the need for employers to comply with existing and new regulations in the workplace. A number of vibrant degree programs in healthcare quality and patient safety can quickly connect students to this emerging field.

14. Chiropractors

Of all the non-physician healthcare professionals on our list, chiropractors are among the most educated. Chiropractors treat patients with spinal adjustments and manipulations (and other clinical interventions). They help relieve health problems of the nervous and muscular system. Most work independently, but some work in a chiropractic group. Chiropractors must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree which usually takes four years after college.

• Average salary:  $71,410
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected 12% rise between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  PhD or BA after vocational training only with experience certificates.

additional information: An additional 5,900 chiropractic jobs are expected to be added through 2026. This increase is attributed to a growing interest in integrative or complementary healthcare as a means of managing pain and promoting overall wellness. Because chiropractors use non-surgical methods and do not prescribe medications, chiropractic care is very attractive to patients.

13. Nursing Jobs

A non-practicing but unionized registered nurse is a skilled position focused on patient care. There are several different ways to become a nurse but most of them have a bachelor’s degree in nursing or have a professional training of at least 3 years.

• Average salary:  $71,730
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 15% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree as a minimum

Additional Information: Employment of registered nurses is expected to experience a growth rate of over 32% through 2026. This is much faster than the average growth for all occupations globally. 

12. Dental Hygienist

Dental hygienists play an integral role in the dental clinic. Dental hygienists are responsible for cleaning patients’ teeth, and checking for signs of oral disease or decay such as gingivitis. They also provide other preventive dental care measures such as fluoride treatment or x-rays. They are also responsible for educating patients on how to improve and maintain good oral health for themselves and their families.

• Average salary:  $74,820
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected 31% rise through 2026
• Required Education:  Bachelor’s degree in dentistry or a diploma of technical qualification in the field of dental care

Additional Information: Dental hygienists must have a minimum of an Associate’s Degree in Dental Hygiene. All states require dental hygienists to be licensed. The demand for dental hygienists is expected to grow at a much faster rate than average due in part to continued research showing the direct link between oral health and personal health in general. Read more information about dentistry .

11. Distinctive functions in nuclear medicine

Nuclear medicine technologists use a sophisticated scanner to produce images of different areas of a patient’s body to help diagnose or treat certain medical conditions. They prepare radioactive drugs and give them to patients undergoing examination. Radioactive drugs cause abnormal areas of the body to appear differently from normal areas in the images, allowing doctors to identify and treat problem areas.

• Average salary:  $76,820
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected increase of 10% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required: Bachelor’s degree or vocational training for at least 3 years only.

Additional Information: Nuclear medicine technologists must have a minimum of an associate’s degree from an accredited nuclear medicine technology program. The expected rise in employment is again related to the aging of the population. This group relies on nuclear medicine technologists to provide imaging for patients with conditions such as cancer or heart disease.

10. Speech-language pathologist

Speech-language pathologists or speech therapists evaluate, diagnose, and treat communication and swallowing disorders. They work with children and adults with speech, language and swallowing disorders caused by:

• brain injury
• delayed growth
• Other problems

Nearly 40% of speech therapists work in schools, while the rest work in health care facilities including hospitals.

• Average salary:  $77,510
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 18% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree in occupational, physical, or speech therapy. Or a master’s degree in Public Health Sciences – Department of Speech.

Additional Information: Employment of speech-language pathologists is expected to grow 18 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average growth for all occupations. As the average baby boomer population ages, they are at greater risk of health conditions that cause speech or language impairment, such as strokes and dementia.

9. Distinguished jobs in the field of genetics, genetic engineering and genetics

A genetic counselor is a healthcare professional with specialized training in genetics and counseling. They provide risk assessment, education, and support for patients who want information about the risks of inheriting certain diseases. They also interpret genetic tests and act as advocates for patients. Most genetic counselors work full time. 

• Average salary:  $80,370
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 29% between 2016 and 2026
• Education required:  Master’s degree as a minimum.

Additional Information: The genetic counseling field is experiencing a much faster-than-average growth rate, with approximately 900 new jobs expected nationwide by 2026.

8. Radiotherapy

Radiation therapists are part of the health care team that administers high doses of radiation to help treat cancer or other serious diseases. They collect and analyze patient data to plan patient treatment. Most radiation therapists have at least an associate’s degree and are usually licensed or certified by their own state. These non-physician jobs are usually well-paid full-time.

• Average salary:  $82,330
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 13% between 2016 and 2026
• Required Education: Three-year diploma – Bachelor’s degree – Physician, radiologist

Additional Information: Employment of radiation therapists is expected to increase by 13 percent through 2026, which is faster than the average growth for all occupations. With the advancing age and the development of radiotherapy, the demand for radiotherapists is expected to rise. The result is about 2,400 new jobs over a 10-year period.

7. Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists are specialists with extensive training who treat injured, sick, or disabled patients through the therapeutic use of daily activities. An occupational therapist works with patients to develop, restore, and improve skills needed for daily life and work that have been lost or impaired. 

• Average salary:  $84,270
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 24% between 2016 and 2026
• Required Education:  Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy or a diploma with no less than 3 years minimum

Additional Information: Employment of occupational therapists is expected to grow 24 percent to 2026, much faster than the average growth for all occupations. Experts anticipate that there will be an increase in the number of occupational therapists because therapeutic therapies are a valuable resource in treating a variety of diseases and disabilities including Alzheimer’s disease and autism.

6. Physiotherapist

Physical therapists help patients improve their range of motion or manage pain caused by illness or injury. Highly paid non-physician healthcare professionals play an important role in the recovery and rehabilitation of individuals who have undergone surgery or need to recover from a job loss. Physiotherapists develop treatment plans, work with individuals to reach their full potential, and complete assessments.

• Average salary:  $87,930
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 28% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required Vocational Training – Bachelor of Health Sciences Department of Physiotherapy.

Additional Information: Employment of physical therapists is expected to grow 28 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. The need for physical therapy services will come, in large part, from the aging baby-boom generation.  These people remain active later in life but are also at risk of developing health conditions such as stroke that require physical therapy.  Physical therapists will also be needed to treat people with movement problems caused by common chronic conditions, such as diabetes or obesity. Read also: Study physical therapy in Germany .

5. Distinctive functions in biomedicine

Biomedical engineers are responsible for analyzing and designing solutions in healthcare using engineering and medical principles and sciences. The goal of this field is to improve the quality and effectiveness of patient care through advances in equipment, hardware, computer systems, and software.

• Average salary:  $88,550
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected increase of 7% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree as a minimum

Additional Information: Employment of biomedical engineers is expected to grow 7 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than average. The need for these professionals will continue to grow largely due to the medical needs of the elderly and technological advances. Read also: What is the difference between biomedicine and biotechnology ?

4. Medical and health services manager

Medical and health services managers – Also called health care managers, they are responsible for coordinating and directing medical services across a variety of settings. These professionals may manage an entire facility or specialize in managing one specific clinical area or department. Some of these professionals may also run a medical practice for a group of doctors or clinics.

• Average salary:  $99,730
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 20% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree as a minimum

Additional Information: Most medical and health services managers have at least a bachelor’s degree before entering this field. Master’s and doctoral degrees are commonly found among high-level professionals in this field. There are a variety of traditional and online master’s degree programs in healthcare administration.

3. Physician Assistant

Physician assistants are well-paid and highly educated health care providers who examine, diagnose, and treat patients. Physician assistants can also order medications. Most lawyers work full time in doctors’ offices, outpatient clinics, or hospitals.

• Average salary:  $108,610
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 37% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Master’s degree as a minimum

Additional Information: Physician assistants are required to complete an accredited educational program that usually leads to a master’s degree . Physician assistant employment is expected to grow 37 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average growth for all occupations. This expected growth stems from the increased demand for healthcare services.

2. Advanced Nursing Practitioner

Registered nurses with advanced practice include nurse anesthetists and midwives. These nurses provide both primary and specialized health care. They must pass the national certification exam in their respective countries with certainty.

• Average salary:  $113,930
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected rise of 31% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree in Nursing Practitioner or Vocational Training with a degree of at least 3 and a half years.

Additional Information: APN Registered Nurses work in a variety of healthcare settings including hospitals, clinics, and physicians’ offices.

1. Pharmacy functions

Pharmacists play an important role in health and wellness. Licensed pharmacists are responsible for dispensing prescription medications to patients and providing guidance on the safe use of these prescriptions. They can also advise patients on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, perform health and wellness checks, and give vaccinations.

• Average salary:  $126,120
• Projected increase in employment:  a projected increase of 6% between 2016 and 2026
• Education Required:  Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy for a period of no less than 5 years only.

Additional Information: Pharmacists must have a 4-year bachelor’s or professional degree. They must also be licensed, which requires passing two exams. An additional 17,400 pharmacist jobs are expected. The increasing demand for prescription drugs will increase the demand for highly educated pharmacy professionals. Read also: How to get a pharmacy scholarship for free .

Our resources: https://www.healthcare-management-degree.net/