5 In-Demand Medical Careers To Explore In 2023
The medical field is an ever-evolving, exciting place to work. With the changing needs of the population and the advancements in technology, many in-demand medical careers will be available in 2023.
These careers will offer various opportunities for people with a wide range of skills, from those with backgrounds in biology or chemistry to those with experience working in the medical field. They’ll also allow you to make a difference in the lives of others as you pursue your career goals.
Here are some of the in-demand medical careers to explore in 2023:
- Physician Assistant
Physician assistants are trained to diagnose and treat patients with various diseases and conditions, including injuries, infections, and chronic illnesses. They also educate patients about their conditions and treatment plans and can perform many routine procedures under a doctor’s supervision.
These stats show how much physician assistants make. Physician assistants perform basic medical duties, including:
- Taking patient histories
- Performing physical exams
- Ordering tests
- Administering medications and treatments
- Providing advice about how patients can improve their health
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs for physician assistants is expected to grow by 31% between 2016 and 2026, which is much more than average.
- Medical Laboratory Technician
Medical lab technicians collect and analyze samples of blood, urine, body tissue, or other substances to check for signs of disease. Even though they don’t diagnose or treat patients directly, they play an essential role in healthcare by ensuring that doctors have accurate information.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical lab technicians will grow 15% from 2016 to 2026. That’s much faster than average for all occupations. The BLS anticipates that there will be approximately 102,700 jobs available for medical lab technicians during this period.
- Occupational Therapists
An aging population and a shift from hospital care toward preventive care drive the need for occupational therapists. As people age, they often need help with everyday activities such as dressing and bathing, which can be particularly challenging for those with chronic conditions or disabilities.
Occupational therapists are also needed in health care settings outside hospitals. They work with people with serious injuries or illnesses that affect their ability to perform everyday tasks like eating, bathing, dressing, and even just walking around their home independently.
Occupational therapists help patients continuously improve, develop new skills, or learn how to use available resources so they can do things on their own again. They may also instruct patients on the use of assistive technology such as computers, tablets, and smartphones so they can participate more fully in everyday life despite having difficulty doing specific tasks on their own due to an illness or injury.
- Dental Hygienist
In a world where people are ever-conscious about their health, dental hygienist jobs are in high demand. These professionals help patients maintain good oral health by providing preventive and holistic dental care, including cleaning teeth and educating people on brushing and flossing.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment of dental hygienists will grow 26 percent by 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS projects that there will be almost 200,000 new jobs for dental hygienists over the next decade, which means that there’ll be plenty of opportunities for those who want to enter this field.
- Radiation Therapist
Radiation therapy is a treatment option for cancer patients. Radiation therapists use x-rays and other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells or reduce their ability to grow.
The number of radiation therapists is expected to increase by 22 percent from 2022-2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As of May 2019, more than 26,000 radiation therapists were employed in the United States.
Radiation therapists work in hospitals and private practices, treating patients with cancer or other types of disease. They support physicians who can perform many different procedures independently without an MD’s supervision.
In addition to helping patients heal, radiation therapists also work with other medical professionals to plan care and treatment options. They provide essential information about patients’ current health status and any previous treatments they’ve received so doctors can decide what course of action should be taken next.
Final Thoughts
In-demand medical careers are a hot topic, and for a good reason. The healthcare industry is booming, and there’s a lot of opportunity for well-qualified professionals to make a difference.
As you move into the new year, it’s important to consider what the future holds for you. Consider one of these in-demand medical jobs if you’re looking for a career that’ll pay well and give you growth opportunities.