Explore Healthcare Careers
Healthcare workers make up roughly 10% of the entire United States workforce, and many roles are poised for exponential growth in the next ten years. Healthcare employs people with all kinds of skillsets, both patient-facing and non-patient facing. Sure, hospitals need nurses and doctors but they also need IT, Human Resources, marketing, data, and administrative professionals to keep things running smoothly.
Take a look at some common career pathways in healthcare below, including education and credentials required to perform the job, and growth rates through the year 2032 (according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
View current openings with Complete Family Medicine and Hannibal Regional.
Patient-Facing Roles
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
LPNs provide basic medical care under the direction of registered nurses and doctors. They perform tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with daily living activities. LPNs often work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics.
Education: LPNs typically complete a state-approved practical nursing program, which can take about 1 year. They must then pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to become licensed.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 6%
Responsibilities may include:
- Monitoring patient health
- Administering medications
- Wound care
- Patient education
Registered Nurse (RN)
RNs provide and coordinate patient care. They assess patients, develop care plans, administer medications, and educate patients and families. RNs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and home health care.
Education: RNs can earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) (2 years), a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (4 years), or a diploma from an approved nursing program. All RNs must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 6%
Responsibilities may include:
- Developing and implementing care plans
- Administering medications and treatments
- Monitoring patient conditions
- Collaborating with other healthcare professionals
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
FNPs are advanced practice registered nurses who provide comprehensive primary care to individuals and families. They can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and order diagnostic tests. FNPs often work in primary care clinics and community health centers.
Education: FNPs must have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). They must also be certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner by a national certifying body.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 40%
Responsibilities may include:
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses
- Prescribing medications
- Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
- Providing preventive care
Physician Assistant (PA)
Physician Assistants practice medicine under the supervision of physicians. They can perform physical exams, order and interpret tests, diagnose and treat illnesses, assist in surgeries, and prescribe medications (in most states). They work in a variety of settings, including physician offices, hospitals, and clinics.
Education: Requires a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Must also pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) and be licensed by their state.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 27%
Responsibilities may include:
- Conducting physical exams
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses
- Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
- Assisting in surgeries
- Prescribing medications (in most states)
Medical Doctor (MD)
MDs are physicians who have completed medical school and residency training. They diagnose and treat illnesses, perform surgeries, and prescribe medications. MDs can specialize in a variety of areas, such as cardiology, oncology, or surgery. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Education: MDs must complete a 4-year undergraduate degree, 4 years of medical school (resulting in a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree), and a residency program (3-7 years or more). They must also be licensed in their state.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 3%
Responsibilities may include:
- Diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions
- Performing surgeries
- Managing patient care
- Conducting medical research
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
DOs are physicians who are trained in osteopathic medicine. They are licensed to perform surgery, prescribe medication, and practice in all areas of medicine. DOs emphasize a holistic approach to patient care, considering the interconnectedness of the body's systems. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Education: DOs must complete a 4-year undergraduate degree, 4 years of osteopathic medical school (resulting in a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree), and a residency program (3-7 years or more). They must also be licensed in their state.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 3%
Responsibilities may include:
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses
- Performing osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT)
- Prescribing medications
- Managing patient care
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Non-Patient Facing Roles
Healthcare IT Specialist
Healthcare IT specialists manage and maintain electronic health records (EHR) systems, network infrastructure, and other technology used in healthcare settings. They ensure data security, system functionality, and provide technical support.
Education: May require an associate's or bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ or healthcare-specific certifications may be beneficial.
Job Outlook through 2032): Projected growth of 15%
Responsibilities may include:
- Implementing and maintaining EHR systems
- Ensuring data security and privacy
- Troubleshooting technical issues
- Providing user training and support
Lab Technician/Technologist
Medical laboratory technicians and technologists perform laboratory tests on blood, tissue, and other body fluids to help physicians diagnose and treat diseases. They use sophisticated equipment and techniques to analyze samples and provide accurate results.
Education: Technicians typically require an associate's degree, while technologists usually need a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science or a related field. Certification is often preferred or required.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 7%
Responsibilities may include:
- Performing laboratory tests
- Analyzing samples
- Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment
- Reporting results to physicians
Human Resources (HR) Manager in Healthcare
HR managers in healthcare handle employee relations, recruitment, benefits administration, and compliance with labor laws. They play a crucial role in attracting and retaining qualified healthcare professionals.
Education: Typically requires a bachelor's degree in human resources management, business administration, or a related field. Master's degrees and certifications (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) are often preferred.
Job Outlook through 2032): Projected growth of 7%
Responsibilities may include:
- Recruiting and onboarding new employees
- Managing employee benefits programs
- Developing and implementing HR policies
- Resolving employee relations issues
Healthcare Administrator/Manager
Healthcare administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They manage budgets, staff, and ensure efficient delivery of healthcare services.
Education: Typically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or a related field.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 28%
Responsibilities may include:
- Developing and managing budgets
- Supervising staff
- Ensuring regulatory compliance
- Improving operational efficiency
Medical Coder
Medical coders assign codes to diagnoses and procedures for billing and insurance purposes. They must have a strong understanding of medical terminology and coding systems (e.g., ICD-10, CPT).
Education: May require a certificate or associate's degree in medical coding or a related field. Professional certifications (e.g., CPC, CCS) are highly recommended.
Job Outlook through 2032): Projected growth of 8%
Responsibilities may include:
- Reviewing medical documentation
- Assigning appropriate codes
- Ensuring coding accuracy
- Working with insurance companies
Medical Biller
Medical billers submit claims to insurance companies and follow up on payments. They work closely with medical coders and must be familiar with billing regulations and procedures.
Education: May require a certificate or associate's degree in medical billing or a related field.
Job Outlook through 2032: Projected growth of 8%
Responsibilities may include:
- Preparing and submitting insurance claims
- Tracking claim status
- Appealing denied claims
- Managing patient billing inquiries