The healthcare field offers many opportunities for those who are looking for a relevant career path. The aging of the American population and the trend toward expanding healthcare to all in the society has resulted in greater reliance on areas of medicine beyond the physician’s role. These specialties are growing in importance as new technologies and techniques are implemented. Here are just a few of the areas of healthcare that will continue to grow that don’t require the long years of training that doctors receive.

1. Nurse Practitioner

Nurses have always been a vital part of the healthcare team, but they are becoming even more critical as more people become eligible for medical services. Many studies indicate that not enough doctors are graduating medical schools to keep up with the growing population. Nurse practitioners that have received additional training beyond a nursing degree are stepping into the gap to provide basic healthcare services for these people. You get a chance to interact with patients on a personal level, which may include discussing their spiritual health as well. 90% of patients regard their spiritual health just as important as their physical health. Becoming a nurse practitioner offers greater challenges for individuals who choose a nursing career, as well as increased salaries.

2. Medical Laboratory Technician

Today, health professionals rely more and more on the diagnostic testing that provides important information about the internal processes that go on inside the human body. Individuals who are interested in the highly scientific field of medical laboratory work will find a wealth of employment opportunities for many years to come. Online cls programs are available to help make this career avenue more convenient.

3. Physical Therapist

Physical therapists are critical for helping patients return to full function after surgery or severe illness. With the growth of new joint replacement surgeries, more physical therapists are needed to help these individuals develop the muscle training needed for their new joints. Physical therapiest design exercises and therapies to help patients improve physical function for everyday living. Career prospects for these health professionals continue to be bright.

If you have an interest in the medical field, an aptitude for detail and a desire to help people, a variety of career paths are available in the medical field. You don’t have to go through the many years of training to be a doctor. Other areas of the industry can provide a fulfilling and lucrative career that will provide the satisfaction of helping people to return to a state of health. Consider these areas of healthcare when you are researching your choice of career paths for the future.

Emma is a freelance writer currently living in Boston, MA. She writes most often on education and business. To see more from Emma, say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2