Associate of Science careers Healthcare is a rapidly expanding field that offers a multitude of opportunities for those with an associate's degree in science. Apart from traditional roles in healthcare, there are various other jobs that you can pursue with this degree. In this article, we will explore the average earnings and primary duties of several science-related professions, such as nursing, medical billing, and more.
1. Nursing Assistant Average national salary: $13.75 per hour Primary duties: Nursing assistants play a crucial role in providing care to patients. They are responsible for monitoring and recording patient vitals, assisting with toileting, caring for catheters, making and changing beds, assisting patients with eating and drinking, as well as helping them with dressing, bathing, showering, and oral hygiene. Compassion and a pleasant attitude are essential qualities for nursing assistants as they interact closely with patients. Educational requirements: Nursing aides typically undergo a six- to 12-week training program to become certified. Organizations such as Medilodge, HCR ManorCare, and VA Hospital employ nursing assistants.
2. Medical Scribe/Transcriptionist Average national salary: $14.02 per hour Primary duties: Medical scribes and transcriptionists transcribe reports from voice recordings provided by physicians, clinicians, and other healthcare providers. While technology advancements may impact the demand for traditional transcriptionists, there is still a requirement for human intervention due to the complexity of medical terminology. Medical scribes, on the other hand, record physician-patient interactions during appointments using a computer or tablet. Companies like Etheredge Chiropractic, Renalus Kidney Care, and LDMTS hire medical scribes/transcriptionists. Education: While not mandatory, many transcriptionists and scribes have a background in healthcare and may have completed relevant courses to gain knowledge of medical diseases, terminologies, and anatomy.
3. Phlebotomist Average national salary: $14.89 per hour Primary duties: Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing blood, labeling vials, storing samples, and sending them for testing. They must follow patient order forms, sterilize equipment, and maintain a clean and organized workspace. Patient comfort is a priority for phlebotomists, as some individuals may feel uneasy during blood draws. Companies like LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics, and American Red Cross employ phlebotomists. Educational requirements: Phlebotomy technicians undergo specialized training and certification in some states.
4. Medical Assistant Average national salary: $15.10 per hour Primary duties: Medical assistants assist doctors in clinical settings by collecting and testing patient samples, recording health histories, and handling administrative tasks such as billing and patient paperwork. Interpersonal skills, patience, and organization are essential qualities for medical assistants who work with sick patients. Companies like Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, and Dignity Health hire certified medical assistants. Education: Medical assistants are required to be certified and registered in most states.
5. Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Average national salary: $15.16 per hour Primary duties: EMTs respond to emergency calls, assess patients, and provide immediate medical care before transporting them to the hospital. They work closely with paramedics, firefighters, and law enforcement to ensure patient safety. Compassion, empathy, and the ability to work under pressure are vital skills for EMTs. Companies such as Medcor, United Ambulance, and City Ambulance Service employ emergency medical technicians.
6. Administrative Assistant Average national salary: $15.47 per hour Primary duties: Administrative assistants play a crucial role in office management by answering phones, scheduling meetings, ordering supplies, and performing other administrative tasks. Those with an associate of science degree may have additional responsibilities such as scheduling appointments and managing staff in healthcare settings. Companies like the US Department of Defense, Mount Sinai Health System, and UPS hire administrative assistants. Skills required: Administrative assistants must excel at multitasking, communication, and thrive in fast-paced environments.
7. Medical Biller Average national salary: $16.03 per hour Primary duties: Medical billers are responsible for billing insurance companies, applying patient balances, and managing revenue for medical facilities. They use medical procedure codes to invoice insurance companies, track payments, investigate denied claims, and ensure accurate billing. Organizations like UnitedHealth, Planned Parenthood, and Texas Children's Hospital hire medical billers. Education: Some employers prefer applicants with credentials like RHIT or CPB.
8. Pharmacy Technician Average national salary: $16.21 per hour Primary duties: Pharmacy technicians dispense medications, maintain inventory, answer patient inquiries, and process insurance claims. They work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to provide quality care to patients. Companies like Costco Wholesale, Magellan Health Services, and Aetna employ pharmacy technicians. Education: Pharmacy technicians must be certified in various states.
9. Lab Assistant Average national salary: $17.21 per hour Primary duties: Lab assistants receive, analyze, and prepare samples for testing in laboratory settings. They are responsible for maintaining accurate lab records and adhering to strict protocols and procedures. Companies like PeaceHealth, Salem Health, and UT San Antonio hire lab assistants. Education: While not always required, certifications like CMLA or a Laboratory Technology Certificate can enhance job prospects for lab assistants.
10. Engineering Technician Average annual salary: $56,937 Primary duties: Engineering technicians provide technical support to engineers by assisting with experiments, data collection, and quality control. Graduates with an associate of science degree, which includes coursework in various fields, can pursue a career as an engineering technician. Companies hiring engineering technicians prefer candidates with associate's or bachelor's degrees, and professional certifications can help further advance their careers. Education: Specialized training and credentials may be required for engineering technician roles in industries like aerospace.
In conclusion, pursuing a career in healthcare or related fields with an associate of science degree offers a wide range of opportunities. Whether you choose to work directly with patients as a nursing assistant or phlebotomist, or prefer administrative roles such as medical transcriptionist or medical biller, there are diverse career paths to explore. By gaining relevant skills, certifications, and experience, you can carve out a successful career in the healthcare industry. For more information on associate of science careers, visit http://kd2kub.com.