The healthcare industry is expected to continue growing over the next few years as the population ages and medical advances improve care. Many medical jobs are in high demand to meet current and future healthcare needs. Here are some of the top medical careers expected to be in demand in 2024 along with responsibilities, and job outlooks.
Personal Support Worker
With an aging population, the need for personal support workers (PSWs) is increasing. They provide in-home care and assist patients with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility.
Job Outlook by 2024: High demand, over 30% expected job growth
Responsibilities: Assisting patients with personal care, medication administration, housekeeping, and record-keeping.
Health Office Administrator
Health office administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of a healthcare facility. They coordinate office procedures, manage staff, maintain patient records, and handle billing/finances. These managers will continue to be needed to lead offices and medical practices.
Job Outlook by 2024: 32% expected job growth as healthcare expands
Responsibilities: Manage office staff and procedures; Maintain patient records and oversee billing/finances; Process insurance claim forms and paperwork; Implement policies to ensure efficiency and regulatory compliance
Physician Assistant
Physician assistants practice medicine under the supervision of physicians and surgeons. As physician shortages intensify, especially in rural and underserved areas, demand for these professionals is expected to significantly outpace supply.
Job Growth by 2024: 37% increase expected (BLS)
Responsibilities: Take medical histories, conduct exams, treat illnesses, assist in surgery, prescribe medication
Home Health Aide
Home health aides provide personal care and everyday assistance to elderly, chronically ill, or disabled patients in their homes. As the population continues to age, demand for these paraprofessionals will surge.
Job Growth by 2024: 47% increase expected (BLS)
Responsibilities: Assist with bathing, dressing, and cooking; Perform light housekeeping; Shop for groceries; Monitor health status
Nurse Practitioners (NP)
Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who provide and coordinate patient care. They can conduct physical exams, diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and more.
Job Growth by 2024: 45% increase expected, much faster than average (BLS)
Mental Health Professionals
Mental health careers are expected to surge in demand as awareness and treatment of conditions increases. Top opportunities include:
Psychologists: Diagnose and treat mental disorders.
Job Growth: 14% increase by 2024 (BLS).
Mental Health Counselors: Provide counselling and guidance to patients with conditions like depression or addiction.
Job Growth: 23% increase by 2024 (BLS).
Psychiatrists: Doctors who diagnose/treat mental illnesses using medication and therapy.
Job Growth: 14% increase by 2024 (BLS).
Healthcare Technicians
Healthcare technicians and technologists operate specialized equipment to diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses. High-demand jobs include:
Radiologic Technologists: Perform medical imaging (x-rays, CT scans).
Job Growth: 9% increase by 2024 (BLS).
Surgical Technologists: Assist surgeons during operations. Median Salary: $47,300 (BLS). Job Growth: 9% increase by 2024 (BLS).
Other In-Demand Healthcare Careers
Here is a brief overview of some other medical careers that are expected to be in high demand for 2024:
- Physical Therapist – Help patients recovering from injury/illness regain movement and mobility.
- Pharmacy Technician – Assist licensed pharmacists in preparing and dispensing prescriptions.
- Medical Assistant – Perform administrative tasks in healthcare settings under physician supervision.
- EMT/Paramedic – Provide emergency care and transportation for injured patients.
The aging population along with medical advances that prolong and improve quality of life will drive demand for these and many other healthcare occupations over the next few years. Getting certified or pursuing relevant training now can help prepare those interested in a healthcare career. With good salary prospects and strong job security, these medical careers offer bright prospects. Gaining relevant certifications now can prepare those who hope to enter these growing healthcare fields. The future looks bright for medical jobs!