- The medical industry in the U.S. is an immense and rapidly expanding sector, with estimated revenue of $58 billion this year.
- Joining the medical industry offers numerous benefits, such as job stability, career opportunities, competitive salary, financial security, and professional development.
- Minimum requirements to join the medical industry vary by field but generally require a high school diploma or equivalent GED.
- Being an EMT is a fast-track option for those looking to join the medical industry, taking 1-2 years, depending on the program chosen.
- Advanced degrees in nursing (RN/BSN) also offer excellent options in the medical field, requiring an accredited program and NCLEX exam to complete.
As a new graduate, deciding on the right career path can be overwhelming. However, the medical industry is always in high demand and provides numerous job opportunities. Here’s a look into the U.S. medical industry, its benefits, and how you can get started in the field with minimum requirements.
The Medical Industry in The U.S.
The medical industry in the U.S. is one of the largest in the world. Its revenue is estimated to be worth around $58 billion this year, with much more room to grow. It also has various fields, such as nursing, physical therapy, nursing assistants, and medical imaging technicians.
Benefits of Joining the Medical Industry
The medical industry provides numerous benefits to its workers. Here are some of those benefits:
Job Stability
With the increasing population and advancements in healthcare, the demand for medical professionals is skyrocketing. With a medical career, you can be assured of job stability and growth in the long term. Unlike many other industries affected by economic fluctuations, the medical industry thrives.
Career Opportunities
A medical career offers many job opportunities across various fields of medicine. Whether you want to be a physician, surgeon, nurse, or any other medical professional, many job opportunities suit your interest and skills.
Competitive Salary
A medical career offers a highly competitive salary package compared to many other job sectors. As a medical professional, you can expect a generous salary and benefits package that reflects your education and expertise. Medical staff earn around $172,000 annually on the bottom end of the spectrum. While on the higher end, doctors earn an average salary of $250,000.
Financial Security
The medical industry provides financial security to its members. This is because most medical professionals enjoy benefits such as insurance coverage and retirement plans. Additionally, the salaries in the medical industry are much higher than the national average. Medical personnel also have access to resources such as healthcare grants or scholarships, which can further increase their financial security.
Professional Development
The medical industry offers an environment of continuous learning and professional development. You can attend conferences and training sessions and learn from experienced professionals to enhance your skills and keep up with technological advancements.
Minimum Requirements to Join the Medical Industry
The minimum requirements to join the medical industry vary depending on the field you are interested in. Generally, a high school diploma or an equivalent GED is required for most positions. In addition, doctors usually require additional years of schooling and specialized training. Aspiring nurses must complete an accredited nursing program and more for nursing positions. Here’s a path you can take with minimum requirements in the field.
Best Path to Join The Medical Industry
If you want a fast track to join the medical industry, then consider these options:
EMT
The first step is learning about Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) skills. EMT training lasts about 1 to 2 years, depending on your program. Plenty of EMT basic training services in the country can get you started. These services are often affordable and much cheaper than getting a college degree.
Certified Nursing Assistant or Nurse Aide
The next step is to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Nurse Aide. CNAs are responsible for offering primary daily care to patients, such as bathing and feeding them. To become a CNA, you must complete a certified nursing assistant program that takes about six weeks to 4 months. However, if you’ve already taken training beforehand, like EMT, then this will drastically reduce the amount you need to be a nurse aide.
RN and BSN Program
After completing the CNA program, you can pursue an RN (Registered Nurse) or BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing). With an RN degree, you can practice higher-level patient care by administering medication or creating treatment plans. On the other hand, with a BSN degree, you can take on more complex nursing roles with greater responsibility. You must complete an accredited program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to obtain an RN or BSN degree.
These are just some minimum requirements to join the medical industry. With dedication and hard work, you can reach your career goals within a few years without investing too much time or money. No matter which path you choose in the medical field, it will be worth it in the long run!