Healthcare is a dynamic and rewarding field, offering a variety of career paths for those just starting out. If you're considering a career in healthcare but aren't sure where to begin, this blog is for you. We'll explore 10 entry-level jobs in the healthcare sector, detailing what each role involves, typical work environments, and the pros and cons of each position.

EKG Technician

What They Do: EKG Technicians specialize in electrocardiogram (EKG) testing for patients. They attach electrodes to a patient's body and record the electrical impulses transmitted by the heart.

Where They Work: These technicians are typically found in hospitals, cardiology clinics, and sometimes in outpatient care centers.

Pros:

• Specialized Skill: EKG techs have a specific, in-demand skill set.
• Patient Interaction: Direct interaction with patients can be rewarding.
• Short Training: EKG is one of our favorites given how short the training is and it pays solidly compared to other allied health roles. It’s definitely under-pursued, so we highly recommend it!

Cons:

• Technical Precision: The role requires a high level of precision and technical skill.
• Emotionally Demanding: Working with cardiac patients can be stressful.

Find Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) certification training here

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (DMS)

What They Do: DMS professionals use ultrasound machines to create images of internal body structures, aiding doctors in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions such as pregnancies and heart diseases.

Where They Work: Commonly in hospitals, but also in physician's offices, diagnostic laboratories, and mobile imaging service centers.

• Pros:
  • Patient Interaction: Directly engage with patients, explaining procedures and ensuring comfort.
  • Technologically Advanced Field: Utilize cutting-edge imaging technology.
  • Good Job Outlook: Growing demand for diagnostic imaging.
• Cons:
  • Physically Demanding: Requires standing for long durations and occasionally maneuvering patients.
  • High Level of Responsibility: Accurate imaging is critical for correct diagnoses.

Phlebotomy

What They Do: Phlebotomists help with drawing blood and other biological specimens. Then then also handling the processing of it.

Where They Work: Generally, they work at labs like Labcorp or Quest, although they may also work at a hospital or as a travel phlebotomist.

Pros:

• Rewarding Work: We've heard a lot of phlebotomists say they love it when they are able to get the blood draw to be painless for a patient!
• Diverse Patient Interaction: They work with a variety of patient age groups and conditions.

Cons:

• Slightly Fewer Jobs: Less in demand than some of the other roles listed above. As such, might be tough to get a full-time role.

Find Phlebotomy certification training here

Sterile Processing Technician (SPT)

What They Do: SPTs are key players in preventing infections in healthcare settings. They clean, sterilize, and prepare medical instruments and equipment. This means decontaminating used surgical tools, organizing and assembling instrument trays for surgeries, and ensuring that everything is properly sterilized and stored.

Where They Work: They're mainly found in hospitals, particularly in surgical departments and central supply areas. But they can also work in outpatient care centers and dental offices.

Pros:

• Crucial Role in Patient Safety: They help prevent infections, making their work super important.
• Detail-oriented Work: Perfect for those who love meticulous, organized tasks.
• Opportunities for Advancement: with experience, they can move into supervisory or managerial roles.

Cons:

• Physically Demanding: involves standing for long periods and handling heavy equipment.
• High Responsibility: any mistake in sterilization can have serious consequences.

Find Sterile Processing Tech certification training here

So, how to pick?

Understand Your Interests and Strengths

Identify Your Passion: Do you enjoy direct patient interaction or do you prefer administrative tasks? Understanding what you enjoy most is crucial in choosing a healthcare career. For instance, if you have a passion for hands-on patient care, roles like Medical Assistant or Patient Care Technician might be ideal for you.

Assess Your Skills: Are you detail-oriented, good at communicating, or skilled in using technology? Different healthcare jobs require different skill sets. For example, if you have strong organizational skills, you might excel in medical billing and coding.

Understand the Job Market

Look at Employment Trends: Research the demand for various healthcare jobs in your area. Some roles, such as Home Health Aides, are in high demand due to the aging population.

Consider Future Growth: Choose a job that offers good prospects for future growth and opportunities for advancement.

Consider Work Environment and Lifestyle

Determine Your Preferred Work Setting: Healthcare jobs are available in various settings, from hospitals and clinics to private homes. Consider where you would feel most comfortable and fulfilled.

Evaluate Work-Life Balance: Think about how a job will fit into your lifestyle. Consider factors like work hours, stress level, and physical demands of the job.

Choosing the right entry-level healthcare job is a personal decision that depends on your interests, skills, and career aspirations. By taking the time to understand your preferences, researching different roles, and gaining firsthand experience, you can make a choice that sets you on a path to a fulfilling and successful career in healthcare. Remember, the healthcare field is diverse, and there is a role for every passion and skill set.