An interest in health care can lead to opportunities in a variety of fields. Consider one of these 10 promising jobs in health care. Demand is growing, which means they could help secure your financial well-being.
1. Audiologist*
Description: Audiologists diagnose and treat a patient's hearing and balance problems using advanced technology and procedures.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 37 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $66,660
2. Chiropractor
Description: Chiropractors treat patients with health problems related to bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons. They use spinal manipulation and other techniques to treat patients' ailments, such as back or neck pain.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 28 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $67,200
3. Dental hygienist
Description: Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases such as gingivitis and provide other preventive dental care. They also educate patients on ways to improve and maintain oral health.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 38 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $68,500
4. Dietitian and nutritionist
Description: Dietitians and nutritionists are experts in food and nutrition. They advise people on what to eat in order to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 20 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $53,250
5. Emergency medical technician and paramedic
Description: EMTs and paramedics care for the sick or injured in emergencies. They respond to emergency calls, performing medical services and transporting patients to medical facilities.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 33 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $30,360
6. Occupational therapist
Description: Occupational therapists treat patients with injuries, illnesses or disabilities through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. They help these patients develop, recover and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 33 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $72,320
7. Pharmacist
Description: Pharmacists dispense prescription medications to patients and offer advice on their safe use.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 25 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $111,570
8. Physical therapist
Description: Physical therapists help people who have injuries or illnesses improve their movement and manage their pain. They are often an important part of the rehabilitation and treatment of patients with chronic conditions or injuries.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 39 percent (much faster than average)
Median annual pay: $76,310
9. Radiation therapist
Description: Radiation therapists treat cancer and other diseases in patients by giving radiation treatments.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 20 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $74,980
10. Registered nurse
Description: Registered nurses provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about health conditions and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families.
Job growth outlook, 2010-20: 26 percent (faster than average)
Median annual pay: $64,690
Source: careerbuilder