How to Change Careers Into the Health Care Industry

Growth in the allied health field is expected to be strong.

According to ExploreHealthCareers.org, four of the top ten fastest growing fields are in the health care industry. This makes a transition into a health care position a wise career move, as more jobs continue to become available. Because changing careers is a serious decision, make your choice carefully and deliberately to avoid regretting the career move. Positions in allied health, which includes dental hygienists, occupational therapists, physician assistants and physical therapists are expected to grow.

Instructions

1. Make a list of your career likes and dislikes. Think about what fulfills you at your current job and what responsibilities or situations you wish to avoid in a new job. Carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of entering the health care industry.

2. Make a list of the skills you will bring to a new job in health care. Experience working with patients, detailed record keeping abilities or an academic background in science can boost your qualification for a health care position.

3. Research health care positions and determine which is the best fit for your abilities and interests. Health care extends beyond physicians and nurses to include clinical social workers, hospital administrators, medical transcriptionists, phlebotomists, occupational therapists, mental health counselors and many others. Pinpoint the position that reflects your career goals.

4. If the position requires additional education, enroll in a certificate or degree program for training. In your application materials, make a strong case for why you wish to transition careers and demonstrate that you carefully considered the decision. Complete all training and licensing necessary in your field.

5. While you are in school, gain experience by volunteering at a hospital, clinic or other health care setting. Talk to other workers to build a professional network. Keep in touch with the people you meet so you can contact them later about job opportunities or as professional references.

   If you establish a rapport with a worker in your chosen field, ask if they will act as a mentor. Your mentor can help guide you through the process of retraining, gaining experience and applying for jobs.

6. Apply for health care positions, emphasizing any relevant previous work experience and volunteer work. In interviews, explain your logic in transitioning to a health care position and describe why you best fit the job. Provide at least one reference from your previous career who will vouch for your hard work ethic and ability to perform the job.

References

• Quint Careers: The 10-Step Plan to Career Change
• Explore Health Careers