In the intricate world of healthcare, the spotlight often shines on doctors and nurses who provide direct patient care. However, behind the scenes, a vast array of non-clinical professionals play equally vital roles. These people ensure the smooth operation of healthcare organizations and the delivery of quality services.
Non-clinical healthcare jobs cater to individuals passionate about healthcare but who may not hold nursing or doctorate degrees.
McKinsey & Company highlights an impending scarcity of such personnel within the healthcare sector in the upcoming years. This, in turn, will have a favorable effect on the escalation of salaries within these positions.
According to projections, nonclinical salary escalation might surpass baseline projections by 3.1 percentage points in 2022. It will be further followed by a 0.5 percentage point increase in 2023 and a 0.1 percentage point rise in 2024.
This article delves into pivotal non-clinical healthcare jobs. It will shed light on the various paths available for those who seek to enter this critical sector.
1. Medical Administrative Assistant
The role of a medical administrative assistant is pivotal in ensuring the efficient functioning of healthcare facilities. These professionals bridge the gap between administrative tasks and patient care by coordinating and managing medical staff and patients.
An emerging educational avenue to excel in this field is the executive master of healthcare administration (eMHA) degree. An eMHA degree program equips individuals with comprehensive knowledge in healthcare management, leadership, and strategic planning.
According to the University of Ottawa, with a focus on healthcare policy, finance, and technology, the degree prepares candidates for the healthcare landscape.
2. Human Resources Specialist
Human resources specialists play an essential role in fostering a skilled and compassionate workforce. These professionals oversee recruitment, employee relations, and compliance, ensuring healthcare facilities are staffed with qualified personnel.
To qualify for this career, you will need a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration, or a related field. You may also want to consider obtaining professional certifications. Some of these certifications include Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or the Senior Certified Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).
In addition to education and certifications, human resources specialists also need to have strong communication and interpersonal skills. They also need to be familiar with employment laws and regulations.
3. Marketing Manager
A marketing manager is a non-clinical healthcare professional responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies for a healthcare organization. They work to increase brand awareness, generate leads, and drive sales.
Business Wire highlights the prestigious positions attainable in the role of a marketing manager. Vivian Health, for example, has introduced Bill Kong as the Chief Marketing Officer.
In this capacity, Mr. Kong will lead Vivian’s brand marketing direction, strategy, and implementation. The role will encompass innovative employment of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance interaction and collaboration with healthcare professionals and employers.
To qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or a related field. In addition to your education, you should also have experience in marketing, preferably in the healthcare industry. You should also have strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
4. IT Specialist
According to The HIPAA Journal, the healthcare sector remains a top target for cyber threats. This is due to the large volume of sensitive information stored within healthcare entities. Furthermore, the simplicity of converting data into profits and the sector’s heavy dependence on data increase the threat to the sector.
Consequently, the industry becomes an enticing target for threat groups driven by financial motives.
As healthcare organizations continue to adopt new technologies, the need for IT professionals to support these systems will increase. If you are interested in a career in healthcare IT, now is a great time to get started.
To qualify, you will need a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field. You may also need to have some experience working in healthcare IT.
5. Quality Assurance Analyst
A quality assurance analyst (QA analyst) is a non-clinical healthcare professional who is responsible for ensuring the quality of healthcare products and services. QA analysts work with a variety of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and IT staff. They work to identify and fix defects in healthcare software, hardware, and procedures.
For a QA analyst role in healthcare, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, or engineering is usually required. You may also need to have experience in software testing or quality assurance.
Some employers may also require QA analysts to have certification in a specific quality assurance methodology, such as Six Sigma.
QA analysts in the healthcare industry typically earn a competitive salary and have good job prospects. The demand for QA analysts is expected to grow as healthcare continues to adopt new technologies and procedures.
6. Patient Educator
Patient educators play an important role in helping patients understand their health conditions and treatments. They can also help patients develop coping skills and make lifestyle changes to improve their health.
To qualify, you will typically need a bachelor’s degree in health education, nursing, or a related field. Some employers may also require you to have experience in patient education or a healthcare setting.
In addition to education and experience, patient educators also need to have strong communication and interpersonal skills. They must be able to communicate effectively with patients and their families, as well as with other healthcare professionals. They also need to be patient, compassionate, and have a strong understanding of the healthcare system.
7. Health Policy Analyst
Health policy analysts are the strategic minds behind informed healthcare decisions. Armed with a profound grasp of policy intricacies, they dissect complex healthcare systems to offer actionable recommendations.
These professionals scrutinize regulatory changes, assess their impact, and predict future trends, ensuring organizations navigate an ever-evolving healthcare terrain. To qualify, a foundation in public health policy or related fields is beneficial.
A bachelor’s degree is often a starting point, while advanced degrees enhance expertise. Analytical skills, research acumen, and an understanding of healthcare economics solidify their role as catalysts. These workers shape equitable, patient-centric policies that foster a healthier society.
Conclusion
As healthcare continues to evolve and diversify, the demand for skilled professionals in non-clinical roles is only set to grow. Each role discussed in this article carries its significance. These roles enable individuals to channel their expertise and passion toward a shared goal. That is enhancing the well-being of patients and the effectiveness of healthcare systems.
By choosing a path that resonates, aspiring candidates can join the ranks of those who work behind the scenes. And thus ensure that healthcare runs smoothly.
