An Overall Picture of Healthcare Schools

Healthcare is one of the fastest growing industries in the market today. Between 2008 and 2018, there is an expected increase of 3.2 million jobs, largely due to the aging population (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). With this need for more healthcare professionals of all types, healthcare schools are providing the education that candidates need to be successful in their chosen field. Not only are they revamping the type of education offered, more healthcare schools than ever are turning to digital means of instructing as well. From online classrooms to using today’s advanced mobile technology, healthcare schools are, and will continue to be, the leaders in preparing students for the realities of their new jobs.

The degree level needed for a job depends on what you want to do and how long you plan on attending school overall. For example, you can certainly get a job with a diploma or certificate from any healthcare schools that offer them. However the job will be limited in responsibility. Some examples include: certified nursing assistants, medical or dental assistants, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT), and a pharmacy technician. These men and women are generally, as their name may imply assistants to someone who is more qualified in the field.

These professionals may be the first person the patient sees to get vital signs, help fill out medical history or be a first responder in an emergency before a doctor can assess them. These positions require that the person have excellent bed-side manner as well, since as the first person, and typically last person the patient sees, they should leave a good impression for the patient.

For those that would rather have more responsibility, they should consider other options that healthcare schools offer – for example, a bachelors, masters or doctorate in a desired field. Each healthcare school will offer degree programs that differ from another, so research your options carefully.

Some healthcare schools only offer higher degree levels, such as masters or doctorate. For example, physical therapy masters degrees are programs that train a professional already in the physical therapy field for patient-relations positions. This is due to the fact that you cannot get a physical therapy degree or try for a license to practice, without the hands-on learning.

Healthcare schools are also training their students about how to learn to use new technology. A prime example is the use of online schools and classrooms, integrating mobile technology and the use of updated patient-care technologies. Online healthcare schools are the new wave of the future. They allow many working professionals to get their first degree or certificate, or to advance one that they already have. Even just using the tools will get them ready to use what will be available to them in the workplace. Technologies like the iTouch connect professionals, and students, with the most up-to-date medical information for quicker and more effective care of a patient. Also, for the care of patients that are home-bound, Bluetooth technology use is being taught to care providers so that nurses and their assistants can always know the health of their patient.