Pursuing a career in healthcare can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. The medical field offers the opportunity to help maintain the health and happiness of your community, while also offering a variety of positions and specialties. From direct care to administration and from pediatrics to emergency, there’s no limit to what you can do!
Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
What do they do? Medical billing and coding specialists use various computer systems and software to electronically record patient data, as well as process the billing for a medical office or hospital.
How do I become one? Receive a certification in medical billing and coding. Depending on the program this can take several months to a year. Associate’s degrees are also available in this field if you want to complete general education requirements in addition to the field-related classes.
What do they do? The radiology field can range from radiology technician or radiographer, to radiology physician or radiologist. A radiographer performs diagnostic imaging examinations, such as x-rays or MRIs, while a radiologist interprets the results to diagnose and treat patients.
How do I become one? Radiographers typically need to obtain an associate’s degree, which takes about two years to complete. Most states also require radiographers become licensed. Receiving a bachelor’s or master’s degree can allow someone is this field to take on more responsibility with the opportunity for career advancement in the future. To become a full-fledged radiologist — a physician in the field of radiology — you need to complete four years of medical school and three to seven years of internships and residencies on top of an undergraduate degree to become an MD.
What do they do? Nurses can work almost anywhere from schools, hospitals, physician offices or home health services. They provide and coordinate direct care to patients such as administering medication and vaccinations. They also play an important role in educating patients about their conditions and monitoring treatments.
How do I become one? Nurses have the option of completing an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in nursing. An associate’s provides an adequate understanding of biology and patient care. A bachelor’s degree covers the same topics, but will also allow you to hold administrative or managerial positions in the nursing field. You will also need to pass a certification exam to become a licensed RN in your state.
Do one of these careers sound perfect for you? Take the corresponding Next Step Academy course to learn more.
