About five million people work in the allied health field in the U.S., which includes more than 80 professions and represents about 60 percent of all health care providers, according to explorehealthcareers.org.
If you say “yes” to five or more of the questions below, a career in allied health might be right for you.
1. Are you comfortable being involved with the health and wellbeing of patients?
2. Are you comfortable working individually as well as part of team?
3. Are you interested in what causes diseases and disorders?
4. Do you enjoy problem solving?
5. Are you familiar with the concepts of exercise, nutrition, health education, speech and daily function?
6. Does the opportunity to work in a variety of health-related occupations excite you?
7. Are you patient and considerate of others mental and physical deficiencies?
8. Are you willing to further your education for a new job?
9. Does the idea of working in a rapidly growing field excite you?
10. Do you enjoy holding conversations with others?
Allied health professionals work in a myriad of fields distinct from nursing, pharmacy or medicine. These professionals provide diagnostic, technical, therapeutic and direct patient care and support services that are critical for health professionals and patients.
This issue of EDU Atlanta offers information about allied health professions, the education needed and experiences of those currently in the field, so read on.
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