Introduction to Allied Health Careers
Allied health careers are an integral part of the healthcare system, providing support and care to patients in various settings. These careers are distinct from nursing and medicine, yet they play a vital role in ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care. Allied health professionals work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and community health organizations, among other settings. In this article, we will explore five allied health careers that are in high demand and offer a range of opportunities for those interested in this field.
1. Occupational Therapy Assistant
Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) work under the supervision of occupational therapists to help patients develop the skills they need for daily living and work. OTAs work with patients who have physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities, and their goal is to help these patients achieve independence and participate fully in their communities. To become an OTA, one must earn an associate’s degree in occupational therapy assistant studies and pass the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.
2. Physical Therapist Assistant
Physical therapist assistants (PTAs) work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries or illnesses that affect their physical abilities. PTAs use various techniques, including exercise, heat, and cold therapy, to help patients manage pain and improve their mobility. To become a PTA, one must earn an associate’s degree in physical therapist assistant studies and pass the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) exam.
3. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Diagnostic medical sonographers use specialized equipment to create images of the body’s internal structures, helping doctors diagnose and treat a range of medical conditions. These professionals may specialize in areas such as obstetric and gynecologic sonography or cardiovascular sonography. To become a diagnostic medical sonographer, one must earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography and pass the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) exam.
4. Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists work with patients who have breathing disorders, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These professionals use various techniques, including oxygen therapy and ventilator management, to help patients breathe more easily. To become a respiratory therapist, one must earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy and pass the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam.
5. Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant
Speech-language pathologist assistants (SLPAs) work under the supervision of speech-language pathologists to help patients with communication disorders. SLPAs may work with patients who have speech or language impairments, such as those resulting from stroke or traumatic brain injury. To become an SLPA, one must earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and disorders and pass the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) exam.
💡 Note: While these careers are in high demand, it's essential to research the specific requirements and certifications needed for each profession, as they may vary by state or employer.
Comparison of Allied Health Careers
The following table compares the five allied health careers discussed in this article:
| Career | Education | Certification | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | Associate’s degree | NBCOT | 32% growth |
| Physical Therapist Assistant | Associate’s degree | CAPTE | 31% growth |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | Associate’s or bachelor’s degree | ARDMS | 19% growth |
| Respiratory Therapist | Associate’s or bachelor’s degree | NBRC | 21% growth |
| Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant | Associate’s or bachelor’s degree | ASHA | 25% growth |
As we can see from the table, all five allied health careers have a positive job outlook, with growth rates ranging from 19% to 32%. This indicates that these careers are in high demand and offer a range of opportunities for those interested in the healthcare field.
In summary, allied health careers offer a range of opportunities for those interested in the healthcare field. From occupational therapy assistants to speech-language pathologist assistants, these careers are essential to providing comprehensive care to patients. By researching the specific requirements and certifications needed for each profession, individuals can make informed decisions about their career paths and take the first steps towards a rewarding and challenging career in allied health.
What is the difference between an occupational therapist and an occupational therapy assistant?
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An occupational therapist is a professional who evaluates and treats patients, while an occupational therapy assistant works under the supervision of an occupational therapist to implement treatment plans.
How long does it take to become a physical therapist assistant?
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Typically, it takes two years to earn an associate’s degree in physical therapist assistant studies and pass the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) exam.
What is the job outlook for diagnostic medical sonographers?
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The job outlook for diagnostic medical sonographers is positive, with a 19% growth rate expected through 2028.
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