If you're interested in pursuing a career in medicine but prefer a non-physician role, Allied Health offers a wide range of rewarding opportunities. Careers in Allied Health include roles such as dental hygienist, dietitian, speech-language pathologist, and more. In this article, we’ve highlighted the five most popular Allied Health careers based on salary, along with detailed descriptions of each profession to help you make an informed career choice.
Cardiac Catheterization Lab Technologist
Overview:
Cardiac Catheterization Lab Technologists, also known as Cath Lab Techs, play a critical role in assessing heart health. They assist in performing cardiac catheterizations, which help diagnose blockages or electrical issues in the heart. These technologists are skilled in pacemaker implantation and understanding cardiac anatomy.
Education Requirements: Associate of Applied Science degree in Cardiovascular Technology
Certifications: Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS)
Salary Range: $51,500 - $128,500
Occupational Therapist
Overview:
Occupational Therapists (OTs) work with patients across all age groups who have illnesses, injuries, or disabilities. They develop and implement treatment plans aimed at improving patients' strength, dexterity, and motor skills to help them achieve their specific goals, whether it's returning to work or improving daily living activities.
Education Requirements: Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy
Certifications: Occupational Therapist Registered (OTR)
Salary Range: $39,000 - $149,000
Speech-Language Pathologist
Overview:
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are communication experts who help patients of all ages improve their ability to communicate. They assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, and cognitive communication disorders, providing personalized treatment plans for each patient.
Education Requirements: Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology
Certifications: Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology (CCC-SLP)
Salary Range: $42,000 - $146,500
Clinical Lab Scientist
Overview:
Clinical Lab Scientists, also known as Medical Lab Scientists, are responsible for analyzing biological specimens to detect the presence or absence of disease. They work with blood, urine, tissue, and other human samples to perform a variety of tests that assist in diagnosing and treating conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science
Certifications: Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by ASCP
Salary Range: $31,500 - $147,000
Physical Therapist
Overview:
Physical Therapists (PTs) specialize in helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and physical disabilities. They create rehabilitation plans that focus on improving coordination, agility, range of motion, flexibility, and strength. PTs aim to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent further disability.
Education Requirements: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Certifications: ABPTS-Certified Specialist
Salary Range: $47,000 - $135,000
Considering a Career in Allied Health?
These top 5 Allied Health careers offer not only competitive salaries but also the opportunity to make a significant impact on patient care. Whether you're drawn to the fast-paced environment of a cardiac catheterization lab or the hands-on approach of occupational therapy, Allied Health professions provide fulfilling career paths with room for growth.
Feel free to reach out to us at information@practicematch.com if you have any questions or want to share your experiences. We’re excited to hear from you!
*Originally posted on 2/14/2022. Last updated on 9/3/2024.