What is Allied Health?
Allied health careers are growing rapidly across many areas. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, some areas of the healthcare field are expected to grow as much as 44 percent through 2020.
To answer the question: what is allied health, it helps to explore the different areas and take a look at the employment outlook as well as job descriptions and educational programs.
What is allied health and what are some of the fastest growing areas?
Ultrasound schools train students in the field of diagnostic medical sonography. The technology has made huge advancement in recent years and is used in more medical applications than ever before. This has created a huge need for qualified technicians in the area. Lean more about this career: Ultrasound technician.
Pharmacy technicians will also experience plenty of career opportunities through 2020. While technicians used to train on the job, more employers are demanding more educational experience and certification. Discover how to become a pharmacy technician.
Becoming a medical assistant is a great option for students looking for a rewarding career in the healthcare field without having to spend many years in college. Programs can range from a few months to two years, depending on the level of certification involved. Find out how to prepare to enroll in one of many medical assisting schools available online or in person.
Physician assistants require more training than a medical assistant, but also enjoy much higher salaries and more responsibility. The growth potential for talented allied health professionals is huge as the industry faces a shortage of qualified workers. If you are looking to break into this field, you’ll want to learn more about how to get into physicians assistant programs.
Respiratory therapists are also an important part of the allied health realm. They work with patients who have trouble breathing or those with a chronic respiratory illness. Qualified workers will be in high demand with graduates of accredited program enjoying plenty of job opportunities. Learn more about becoming a respiratory therapist.
Phlebotomists are trained to draw blood from patients and also assist with lab work and analysis. While this type of work used to be handled by registered nurses, demand has grown to the point that it’s now a specialized occupation. Learn more about the profession here: what is phlebotomy.
Radiologic Technologists take and examine X rays for patients. They are highly skilled professionals who work responsibly around radiation and highly complex medical equipment. To learn how to become an X ray technician requires specialized training.
Hopefully, this helped you answer an important question: what is allied health? There’s plenty of opportunity in the allied health profession for those who study hard and earn a degree or certificate from an accredited program.