1. clinical/medical social workers
The demand for mental health services is increasing, which in turn is creating a greater need for clinical/medical social workers. This need is spilling over into the workplace, too, with employers taking a greater stake in the mental health and well-being of every employee. Clinical/medical social workers provide therapy to patients to both prevent and treat mental illness and emotional disturbances. As telehealth services continue to soar in popularity, job prospects will remain favorable for those in this field. Medical social worker jobs are projected to grow 11 percent in the decade to 2031.
degrees and certifications:
- a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work
- applicable state license
- completion of an accredited social work program
2. clinical case manager
Clinical case managers serve as important intermediaries between patients and the healthcare system at large. Steadfast advocates, they work closely with patients to help them navigate the healthcare and insurance systems and secure effective, affordable care. In addition to in-depth knowledge of medical bureaucracies, clinical case managers must be highly empathetic and able to work calmly and comfortably with patients undergoing treatment. An important human point of contact in the healthcare delivery process, they serve a much-needed role that has firmly secured its status among our list of in-demand jobs. RN case management salaries can range from $58k to upwards of $90k.
degrees and certifications:
- applicable state license
- completion of an accredited program for social work or nursing
- nursing or social work degree
3. occupational health RN
Safe, healthy working environments have never been more important, catapulting occupational health RNs to a prominent spot on our in-demand jobs list. Responsible for on-the-job employee health and safety, occupational health RNs are concerned with both prevention and recovery, working with employees to ensure they receive adequate care in case of injury or illness. They also remain in close contact with business leaders to maintain cost-effective care and wellness programs, with the goal of minimizing healthcare costs for their employers. Occupational health jobs in the medical sector are projected to grow 12 percent between 2021 and 2031.
degrees and certifications:
- a diploma, associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing
- completion of an accredited program for nursing
- unencumbered state license
4. pharmacist
Healthcare continues to evolve in the direction of value-based care, and pharmacists are playing an increasingly central role in that transformation. These white-coated professionals are now on the front lines of healthcare delivery, serving as go-to resources for everything from flu shots to advice about prescription costs and potential drug interactions. Some companies are beginning to hire for remote pharmacist jobs, and positions across the field are expected to grow 2 percent from 2021 to 2031.
degrees and certifications:
- completion of a program at an accredited school of pharmacy
- doctorate in pharmacy
- unencumbered state license
5. surgical tech
While advanced medical technology is making surgery safer and more effective than ever before, it's also opening up amazing growth opportunities for surgical techs. In fact, anyone looking to break into a career in healthcare would be wise to consider this path. After all, your diploma or certificate program can likely be completed in as little as 12 months — and you can launch your career in one of the best jobs in healthcare. Surgical techs can expect to make anywhere from $44k to around $64k.
certifications:
- basic life support (BLS)
- certified surgical technologist
6. telehealth RN
Demand for nurses has been high for some time, even before telehealth services began their meteoric rise. But now, with digital services opening up accessible new avenues for care, nurses interested in working in this capacity will enjoy even greater job prospects. The duties of a telehealth nurse are similar to those who work in a traditional in-person healthcare setting, but they provide care and counseling to patients through the phone or online platforms. Telehealth RN salaries range from $61k to $101k depending on location and experience.
degrees and certifications:
- a diploma, associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing
- completion of an accredited program for nursing
- unencumbered state license
essential healthcare skills
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patient care
Patient care is an essential part of any healthcare operation, making it one of the best skills to learn in the sector. Patient care involves monitoring and evaluating patient conditions, administering the proper treatments and taking steps to aid in the prevention of future complications or illnesses.
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prescription review
An essential skill for pharmacists, prescription review is a process by which pharmacists and patients connect one-on-one to ensure prescribed medications retain their efficacy. Since part of the process is centered around improving patient knowledge about their own medications and the role each one plays in their treatment, strong communication skills are necessary, along with the ability to translate medical jargon into easy-to-understand language.
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treatment planning
The first step along the way to patient recovery involves outlining a thoughtful and defined treatment plan to improve outcomes. The treatment planning skill set involves being able to analyze a diagnosis and map out treatment options based on each individual’s age and overall health to devise a safe and effective path forward.
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technology
As tech continues to dominate the healthcare industry, employees who are comfortable working with electronic medical records, telehealth platforms and other forms of remote patient care will have an edge. Providers are also continually seeking professionals in the cybersecurity sector to help protect patient data and prevent cyber attacks.
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emotional intelligence
Healthcare professionals dealing directly with patients need to display empathy and compassion during difficult situations. Being in tune with your emotions can help improve patient care by building a relationship and trust, even when times are stressful.
