Anyone who is looking for job security in the coming years has to look no further than the medical field. As the American population lives longer and the Baby Boomer generation ages the need for medical treatments and disease prevention is growing. The healthcare industry has been a huge economic driver in recent years, and this year hospital jobs grew more rapidly than any other time since 1991.
Another important caveat is the fact that now 89% of people in the U.S. have health insurance. This has helped healthcare facilities and hospitals take on less bad debt and increase their revenue. Healthcare employers are in a better position to hire more skilled workers to keep up with demand. But which medical careers are poised for the largest growth?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the medical jobs below will be in the highest demand between now and 2022.
Registered Nurse
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 19% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 526,800
Average annual salary: $65,470
Minimum Education Required: Associates Degree
The need for registered nurses continues to grow every year, which has led to BLS to estimate that over half a million new jobs will be created for this profession alone. It’s an ideal occupation for people that have good social skills since patient interaction is constant. You must complete an accredited nursing program and receive a license before you can work as a registered nurse.
Radiation Therapists
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 24% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 4,500
Average annual salary: $77,560
Minimum Education Required: Associates Degree
Radiation therapists help treat a variety of cancers and diseases through the use of targeted radiation. Specialized programs such as the radiation therapy schools at Gwynedd Mercy provide required training in machinery operation, oncology patient care, biology and more. Currently there are special certifications, associates and bachelor degrees that must be obtained before receiving a state license.
Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 41% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 49,400
Average annual salary: $39,430
Minimum Education Required: Associates Degree
Physical therapy has become more prevalent in our aging population, therefore the need for trained professionals in the field is growing. Physical therapy assistants must obtain an associates degree from an accredited program, while aides typically receive on the job training.
Physical Therapists
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 36% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 73,500
Average annual salary: $79,860
Minimum Education Required: Doctoral degree
More and more doctors are needed to administer and create physical therapy treatments for people who have been injured or suffer as a result of the aging process. The job requires completion of a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and licensure.
Licensed Practical and Vocational Nurses
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 25% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 182,900
Average annual salary: $41,540
Minimum Education Required: Postsecondary award
This entry-level nursing position provides ample opportunity for anyone that is interested in a job within the medical field. Licensed practical and vocational nurses can work in a variety of settings and completion of a state-approved program usually only takes a year to complete.
Medical Assistants
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 29% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 162,900
Average annual salary: $29,370
Minimum Education Required: Postsecondary award
Becoming a medical assistant is another entry-level option that only requires postsecondary certification. These individuals help physicians by performing various clerical and clinical tasks.
Nurse Anesthetists, Nurse Midwives and Nurse Practitioners
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 31% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 47,600
Average annual salary: $96,460
Minimum Education Required: Masters degree
These high-level nursing positions can provide primary care, however their exact job role varies from state to state. At minimum a specialized masters degree must be obtained along with a state license.
Dental Hygienists
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 33% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 64,200
Average annual salary: $70,210
Minimum Education Required: Associates degree
Dental care can factor into the development of other diseases and also detect health problems early on. The role of the dental hygienist is crucial in keeping teeth and gums healthy as well as detecting disease. An associates degree and licensure is required to work in this position.
Medical Sonographers and Technologists
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 39% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 42,700
Average annual salary: $60,350
Minimum Education Required: Associates degree
As sonogram technology has improved so has its use in the medical field. There is a growing demand for specialized sonographers and technologists who use imaging machinery to capture and interpret images. At minimum postsecondary certification and an associates degree is required.
EMTs and Paramedics
Job Outlook Growth Rate: 23% faster than average
Anticipated number of jobs to be added from 2012-2022: 55,300
Average annual salary: $31,020
Minimum Education Required: Postsecondary award
EMTs and paramedics transport patients that are in need of medical treatment and administer treatments in emergency medical situations. These positions require completion of a postsecondary program and a state license.
