The healthcare field has many points of entry for a variety of careers. Some careers require 2, 4, or multi-year degrees while others require certifications. This article goes over some career options broken down by certification or time in school.

Licensed Certification Programs

Those seeking to start their healthcare careers relatively quickly may want to consider becoming a Certified Nurse’s Assistant (CNA), Home Health Aide (HHA), or both first because it only takes a few months.

A CNA works in a hospital, nursing home, or rehab setting. They provide companionship for patients, track vital signs, and report complaints to a nurse or physician.

In contrast, an HHA works with patients at home. They help patients with home exercise programs and general personal care. HHAs report to the home care nurse.

Becoming a CNA or HHA is fairly simple. Requirements vary by state. But generally, a CNA/HHA must:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Complete between 75-120 hours of training approved by the state
• Pass a physical exam
• Take and pass the exam administered by the state

1-2 Year Certificates or Degrees

LVN or LPN

Another career for those looking to get into the workforce faster is a licensed vocational/practical nurse (LVN or LPN). LVNs do many of the basic tasks that an RN does. There are limits to their duties, however, and LVNs are typically supervised by RNs. Those looking to become an LVN have the option of completing programs in 9-18 months. This is helpful with regard to gaining nursing experience. Diploma level and associate programs are available. The one chosen depends upon personal preference and career goals.

It is worth noting that those who want to become a registered nurse (RN) have the option of becoming an LVN first and then doing a bridge program to the RN which takes into account credits earned during LVN education. The general requirements are:

• Take an approved course of study
• Pass the NCLEX-PN
• Get Licensed
• Consider additional certification in care such as IVs.

Physical Therapy Assistant

Becoming a physical therapy assistant (PTA) typically takes 2 years and is an excellent option for those who want to become a physical therapist. This can be completed at the associate level. General requirements are:

• Enroll in a CAPTE-accredited PTA program
• Pass the license exam

Medical Assistant

Becoming a medical assistant is also a career option that offers flexible education programs. An aspiring medical assistant should consider enrolling in a diploma program at minimum. Associate programs are also available.

Medical assistants typically work in a physician’s office or medical office. They perform duties such as taking vital signs and weight for a practitioner and perform admin duties like answering phones and handling billing inquiries. Larger practices separate the medical and admin duties. But a medical assistant in a small practice may pull double duty.

Medical assistants are not required to become certified but this is preferred.

Other 1-2-year options include:

• Pharmacy Technician
• Psychiatric Technician
• Physician Assistant
• Dental Assistant
• Dental Hygienist

2+ Year Programs

Those who want to become a registered nurse, physician, physical therapist, or speech therapist are looking at least 3 years of training if not more.

An aspiring registered nurse can complete a 2-year program and become licensed provided they pass the necessary licensing exam. As with an LVN, programs are available to help RNs with 2-year earn their 4-year degree. Many nurses begin working in the field while pursuing an online nursing degree part time.

Physical therapists must now earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)which is usually three years long and comes after an undergraduate program. Condensed programs are available too. The minimum time in school is about 6 years with a faster option.

Speech therapists must have a bachelor’s prior to going to graduate school for speech therapy. Speech therapists must also pass a licensing exam with a total minimum education time of about 6 years.

Doctors require the most time in school out of all healthcare careers. A 4-year education is required from an undergraduate institution. 4 years of medical school follows for a total of eight years in school plus additional years spent as a resident.

The career options presented here are just a sampling of the options in the field of healthcare. But for those who want to be in healthcare, there are options that are available to individuals at every stage of life.