Health Technician Jobs: What You Need to Know
Are you interested in a career in healthcare but don't necessarily want to become a doctor or nurse? A health technician job might be just what you're looking for. In this article, we'll cover the basics of what a health technician job entails, the skills you'll need to succeed, and how to get started in this field.
What is a Health Technician Job?
A health technician job is a role in the healthcare industry that involves providing support to medical professionals in a variety of settings. Health technicians might work in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes, among other places. Some of the specific duties of a health technician might include:
- Assisting with diagnostic tests and procedures
- Administering medication and treatments
- Maintaining patient records
- Monitoring vital signs
- Assisting with patient mobility and personal care
What Skills Do You Need for a Health Technician Job?
While the specific skills you'll need for a health technician job will vary depending on your role and the setting you're working in, there are a few key skills that most health technicians will need to have:
- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
- Attention to detail and strong organizational skills
- The ability to work well in a team
- Physical stamina and the ability to lift and move patients
- Basic computer skills
How Do You Become a Health Technician?
The specific path to becoming a health technician will depend on your desired specialty. Some health technicians, such as phlebotomists or medical assistants, might only need a certificate or diploma from a vocational school or community college. Other specialties, such as radiologic technologists or respiratory therapists, will require an associate's degree or higher.
Regardless of your specialty, you'll likely need to complete some form of training or education program and pass a certification exam in order to become a health technician.
What is the Average Salary for a Health Technician?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for healthcare support occupations, including health technicians, was $29,740 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary widely depending on your specialty, experience level, and location.
Roles and Types of Health Technicians
There are many different types of health technicians, each with their own specific duties and requirements. Some of the most common roles and specialties include:
- Phlebotomy Technician
- Medical Assistant
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
- Radiologic Technologist
- Respiratory Therapist
- Physical Therapy Aide
- Occupational Therapy Aide
Locations with the Most Popular Health Technician Jobs in the USA
Healthcare is a growing industry, and health technician jobs can be found in many different locations across the United States. Some of the cities with the most job openings for health technicians include:
- New York, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Philadelphia, PA
What Are the Typical Tools Used by Health Technicians?
The tools and equipment used by health technicians will vary depending on their specialty. Some common tools and equipment you might use as a health technician include:
- Blood pressure cuffs and stethoscopes
- Medical carts and trays
- Needles and syringes
- X-ray machines and other imaging equipment
- Oxygen tanks and respiratory equipment
In Conclusion
A health technician job can be a rewarding career choice for those interested in healthcare but who don't want to become a doctor or nurse. With the right skills and training, you can find a fulfilling career as a health technician in a variety of settings. Whether you're interested in phlebotomy, radiology, or another specialty, there's a health technician job out there for you.