Embarking on a career in the medical field is often associated with years of rigorous education and training. However, not every healthcare profession requires extensive schooling. For those eager to make a difference in people’s lives without committing to lengthy academic programs, there are several options that can be pursued with less than two years of schooling.

Careers Offering Quick Entry into the Healthcare Sector

These 10 careers offer a quick entry into the healthcare sector, providing individuals with the opportunity to contribute to patient care and well-being in a relatively short amount of time.

1. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): Certified Nursing Assistants play a crucial role in providing basic care to patients in various healthcare settings. To become a CNA, individuals can enroll in a state-approved training program, which typically takes around 6 to 12 weeks. These programs cover essential topics such as patient care, infection control, and communication skills. Upon completion, aspiring CNAs need to pass a competency exam to obtain certification.
2. Medical Assistant: Medical assistants support healthcare professionals in both administrative and clinical tasks. Training programs for medical assistants usually take about 9 to 12 months and cover subjects like medical terminology, anatomy, and basic clinical procedures. Graduates can pursue certification, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), to enhance their job prospects.
3. Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing customer service. Training programs for pharmacy technicians typically last 6 months to a year and cover pharmaceutical calculations, medication dispensing, and pharmacy law. Some states require certification, like the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), for employment in this role.
4. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): EMTs play a critical role in pre-hospital emergency care. To become an EMT, individuals can complete a training program that generally lasts 6 months to a year. Basic EMT programs cover topics such as patient assessment, trauma care, and emergency medical procedures. EMTs must obtain national or state certification to practice.
5. Dental Assistant: Dental assistants work alongside dentists, providing support in various clinical and administrative tasks. Training programs for dental assistants typically take 9 to 11 months and cover dental procedures, radiography, and office management. Certification options, such as the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), can enhance employability.
6. Phlebotomist: Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood for diagnostic purposes. Training programs for phlebotomists can be completed in as little as 4 to 8 weeks. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, and blood collection techniques. Many employers prefer or require phlebotomists to be certified, such as through the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the National Phlebotomy Association (NPA).
7. Medical Billing and Coding Specialist: Medical billing and coding specialists ensure accurate documentation and billing of medical services. Billing and coding programs typically take 9 to 12 months and cover medical coding systems, insurance processes, and healthcare regulations. Certification, such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential, can enhance job prospects in this field.
8. Radiologic Technologist Assistant: Radiologic technologist assistants support radiologic technologists in performing medical imaging procedures. Radiologic technologist assistant programs generally take around 12 to 18 months and cover patient care, anatomy, and radiologic procedures. While certification is not always required, obtaining the Limited Scope of Practice in Radiography credential can enhance career opportunities.
9. Occupational Therapy Aide: Occupational therapy aides assist occupational therapists in helping patients regain independence in daily activities. Training programs for occupational therapy aides typically last around 6 to 12 months and cover basic anatomy, therapeutic techniques, and patient interaction. While certification is not mandatory, some employers may prefer candidates with relevant certifications or experience.
10. Home Health Aide: Home health aides provide assistance with daily activities for individuals who require care at home. Training programs for home health aides vary but generally last around 75 hours, meeting federal requirements. Some states may have additional requirements. While certification is not always mandatory, completing a state-approved training program is essential.

Whether you’re interested in direct patient care, administrative tasks, or technical support, these roles provide a stepping stone into the dynamic and rewarding world of healthcare.

Find a Program Near You

Embarking on a career in the medical field doesn’t always require years of schooling. Make a positive impact on patient well-being and begin your training with a medical program that takes under two years to complete.

Reference and more reading:

• National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
• American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
• Training for a High Paying Career In 6 Months Or Less