Unfortunately, healthcare is an industry that is oftentimes understaffed, and that is as true in Florida as anywhere else. Florida’s population is rapidly growing, but also ageing as well, and there’s a shortage of healthcare workers in various levels and positions, from first responders and nurses to lab technicians and pharmacists.
Careers in healthcare can be extremely rewarding and fulfilling, so in this article, we decided to have a look at some of the positions available in Florida for those interested in joining this impactful field in hopes of inspiring some readers.
Emergency Medical Technician(EMT)
Becoming an emergency medical technician(EMT) is one of the fastest ways of joining the healthcare field in Florida. EMTs are first responders that are crucial in providing emergency pre-hospital care and transportation to a healthcare facility. This is a position perfect for physically and mentally fit individuals who want to make a difference on a daily basis.
It is very rewarding and impactful, but can also be very physically and mentally demanding which is why candidates have to go through a few months of training that will ensure their compatibility with the role. There are EMT training online Florida related resources available for all who are interested in the ins and outs of this position.
Certified Nursing Assistant(CNA)
Becoming a certified nursing assistant(CNA) can be a great choice for all those who are interested in working with patients, but in a bit less intensive emergency settings and situations. They support nurses and other healthcare professionals in their daily tasks while also assisting the patients with their daily activities like bathing, dressing, and feeding.
CNAs greatly improve the patients lives during their stay at healthcare facilities, so it is a great position for those people who love helping and taking care of other individuals. Potential CNAs will have to undergo a training course and pass an exam in order to be certified and allowed work in the field within various institutions from hospitals and nursing homes to private care facilities.
Medical Assistant(MA)
Medical assistants are invaluable members of healthcare teams in outpatient facilities, clinics, and physicians offices. Their duties are a mix of administrative and clinical ones.
Clinical duties typically wouldn’t involve emergency situations, but routine processes like checking vital signs, taking patient histories, and handling lab specimens. In terms of administrative duties, MAs will be expected to handle varied tasks like handling patients records, insurance verification and billing, as well as patient reception and appointment.
Medical Assistants will have to complete a training program and pass an exam in order to get accredited after which they can pursue specialized certifications offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants(AAMA) that open more career opportunities within the field.
Respiratory Therapist(RT)
The recent pandemic taught us many things, and the importance of respiratory care certainly is one of them. In the context of Florida, with its large elderly population this is even more true.
Respiratory Therapists are healthcare workers who work with patients who suffer from chronic respiratory issues ranging from asthma to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD). Although most RTs work in hospitals, a large number can also be found working in home health settings, where they treat patients with respiratory issues at the patient’s home.
RTs do have to have an associates degree from an accredited respiratory therapy program, and pass a Certified Respiratory Therapist(CRT) exam in order to work in the field, and additional specialisations are also available which can significantly increase career prospects and earning opportunities.
Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy Technicians help pharmacists in their everyday tasks. Everything from preparing prescriptions and handling inventory, to assisting with patient interactions both in person and on the phone or online. There are pharmacy technician certification programs and obtaining a Pharmacy Technician Certification Board(PTCB) or National Healthcareer Association(NHA) certification can significantly improve one's career opportunities; the state of Florida does not require pharmacy technicians to be certified so this is a position that offers a relatively quick pathway into a career in healthcare for everyone interested in pharmacy.
Conclusion
Florida has one of the largest healthcare systems in the country and is constantly looking for additional workers to satisfy the ever growing demand from a large and ageing population. There are various positions open to those interested in joining this important field.
Although many positions in healthcare require a degree and years of specialization, there are other positions that are open to all those who go through specific training programs and pass a certification exam. Regardless of the qualifications needed, all jobs and positions within Florida’s healthcare industry are important, and everyone works towards the same goal-ensuring the highest possible level of healthcare.
