If you are looking to get into the healthcare field and don’t want to wait two to four years while obtaining a degree to do so, there are still quite a few options for you. Here are four career paths that are solid choices for those wanting to break into the field, or that can help you get your foot in the door, so to speak, while you work toward loftier career goals, if that is your aim.

Ultrasound Technician

What They Do: Ultrasound technicians, also known as sonographers, use specialized technology to record images of soft tissue and internal organs with the use of high-frequency sound waves. These images are then used by doctors and other health professionals to diagnose ailments and injuries.
Median Pay: $72,510
Projected Growth Through 2028: 14% (much faster than average)
Education Required: Accredited Professional Certification

Medical Assistant

What They Do: Medical assistants are allied health professionals who perform both clinical and administrative tasks in medical offices, laboratories, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Daily tasks may include recording patient history and personal information, measuring vital signs, assisting with examinations, giving injections or medications, preparing blood samples, and data entry.
Median Pay: $33,610
Projected Growth Through 2028: 23% (much faster than average)
Education Required: Professional Certification, High School Diploma or Equivalent, On-the-Job Training

Physical Therapy Aide

What They Do: Physical therapy aides work as a part of a physical therapy support team, under the supervision of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. They are responsible for ancillary tasks in the facility, such setting up and cleaning treatment areas, transporting patients, ordering supplies, and scheduling therapy sessions.
Median Pay: $26,240
Projected Growth Through 2028: 26% (much faster than average)
Education Required: High School Diploma or Equivalent

Home Health Aide

What They Do: Home health aides assist patients who are impaired due to disabilities, chronic illnesses, or cognitive impairments with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, housekeeping, cooking, scheduling appointments, and transportation. Depending on the state they work in, they may also perform basic health-related services, such as taking vital signs or giving medications.
Median Pay: $24,060
Projected Growth Through 2028: 36% (much faster than average)
Education Required: High School Diploma or Equivalent, On-the-Job Training

Disclaimer: The viewpoint expressed in this article is the opinion of the author and is not necessarily the viewpoint of the owners or employees at Healthcare Staffing Innovations, LLC.