The healthcare industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world, with a constant demand for skilled professionals. While physicians are the most recognized healthcare professionals, many other non-physician jobs in healthcare can be just as rewarding. These jobs offer competitive salaries, job security, and growth opportunities.
The top seven highest-paid non-physician jobs in healthcare are orthotist and prosthetist, physician assistant, nurse anesthetist, nurse practitioner, health services manager, pharmacist, and dental hygienist.
These jobs require various levels of education and training, but all are in high demand due to the aging population and advances in medical technology. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these jobs have a median annual salary ranging from $74,000 to $122,000.
1. Pharmacy Manager
Pharmacy managers are responsible for overseeing the operations of a pharmacy, including managing staff, inventory, and finances. They ensure that the pharmacy is adhering to all legal and ethical standards and that patients receive the highest quality of care. According to hcpnavigator.com, pharmacy managers can earn a median salary of $149,064 per year.
To become a pharmacy manager, one typically needs a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree and several years of experience as a pharmacist. They must also be licensed to practice pharmacy in their state. Pharmacy managers must have strong leadership and organizational skills, as well as excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
Pharmacy managers work in a variety of settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities. They may also work for pharmaceutical companies or government agencies. In addition to managing the day-to-day operations of a pharmacy, they may also be responsible for developing and implementing policies and procedures, conducting staff training, and ensuring that the pharmacy complies with all relevant laws and regulations.
Overall, pharmacy management is a challenging and rewarding career that requires a high level of skill and expertise. For those who are passionate about healthcare and have a strong desire to help others, pharmacy management can be an excellent career choice.
2. Pharmacist
Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who are responsible for dispensing prescription medications to patients and providing advice on their safe and effective use. They are also responsible for monitoring drug interactions and ensuring that patients are not taking medications that may be harmful to their health.
According to Nexford University, pharmacists are among the highest-paid non-physician healthcare professionals, with a median annual salary of $128,710. In addition to dispensing medications, pharmacists also play a vital role in patient care by providing counseling on medication use and answering questions about potential side effects.
To become a pharmacist, one must complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program, which typically takes four years to complete. In addition to completing coursework in pharmacology, chemistry, and medical ethics, students must also complete supervised clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings.
Pharmacists can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities. They may also work in research and development, helping to develop new medications and therapies to treat a variety of medical conditions.
Overall, pharmacists play a critical role in ensuring that patients receive safe and effective medications to treat their medical conditions. With a high median salary and strong job growth projected in the coming years, a career as a pharmacist can be a lucrative and rewarding choice for those interested in healthcare.
3. Physician Assistant
Physician assistants (PAs) are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of doctors or surgeons. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating illnesses, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests, and prescribing medications.
According to Nurse.org, physician assistants are one of the highest-paid non-physician jobs in healthcare, with an average salary of $126,010 per year. PAs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
To become a PA, one must complete a master’s degree program in physician assistant studies and pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). PAs must also complete continuing education courses to maintain their certification.
One of the benefits of becoming a PA is the flexibility in the type of medicine one can practice. PAs can specialize in a variety of fields, including dermatology, emergency medicine, and surgery. This allows PAs to pursue their interests and passions while still earning a high salary.
Overall, physician assistants play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by providing quality care to patients and easing the workload of doctors and surgeons.
4. Nurse Anesthetist
Nurse Anesthetists are advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in administering anesthesia to patients. They work alongside anesthesiologists, surgeons, and other medical professionals to ensure that patients are safe and comfortable during surgical procedures.
According to Nurse.org, Nurse Anesthetists are the highest-paid nursing job and can earn an average annual salary of $189,190. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that Nurse Anesthetists made a median annual salary of $183,580 in May 2022.
Nurse Anesthetists undergo extensive training and education to be able to administer anesthesia safely and effectively. They typically hold a master’s degree in nursing and must also pass a national certification exam.
Nurse Anesthetists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, and dentist offices. They are responsible for monitoring patients before, during, and after anesthesia, and adjusting the anesthesia as necessary to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Overall, Nurse Anesthetists play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by providing safe and effective anesthesia to patients undergoing surgical procedures. Their extensive training and expertise make them an essential part of any medical team.
5. Chief Nursing Officer
A Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) is responsible for overseeing the nursing staff and ensuring that they provide high-quality care to patients. They are also responsible for developing and implementing nursing policies and procedures, managing budgets, and ensuring that the nursing staff is properly trained and equipped to handle their duties.
According to AMN Healthcare, the average salary for a CNO is around $150,000 per year. However, the salary can vary depending on the size of the hospital and the region in which it is located.
CNOs typically have a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree and several years of experience working as a nurse. In addition to their nursing background, CNOs must also have strong leadership and management skills, as they are responsible for overseeing a large nursing staff.
Overall, the role of a CNO is critical to the success of any hospital or healthcare facility. They play a key role in ensuring that patients receive high-quality care and that nursing staff are properly trained and equipped to handle their duties.
6. Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare consultants are professionals who provide expert advice to healthcare organizations, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They help healthcare organizations optimize their operations and improve patient care while minimizing costs. Healthcare consultants may work independently or for consulting firms.
According to Salary.com, healthcare consultants earn an average salary of $91,000 per year, with a salary range of $75,000 to $110,000. This makes healthcare consulting one of the highest-paid non-physician jobs in healthcare.
Healthcare consultants typically have a background in healthcare, business, or both. They may have a degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or a related field. Healthcare consultants must be knowledgeable about healthcare regulations, policies, and best practices, as well as business operations and financial management.
Healthcare consultants may work on a variety of projects, including organizational restructuring, process improvement, and technology implementation. They may also provide guidance on healthcare policy and regulation, healthcare data analysis, and healthcare marketing and communications.
In summary, healthcare consulting is a lucrative and rewarding career path for individuals with a background in healthcare and business. Healthcare consultants play a critical role in helping healthcare organizations improve patient care and reduce costs.
7. Medical and Health Services Manager
Medical and Health Services Managers are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating medical and health services. They may manage an entire facility or specialize in managing a specific clinical area or department. According to U.S. News, the average annual salary for Medical and Health Services Managers in the United States is $104,280.
Medical and Health Services Managers are required to have a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, business administration, or a related field. In addition, some employers may prefer or require a master’s degree in healthcare administration or a related field. Certification is also available through organizations such as the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Medical and Health Services Managers must have excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. They must be able to manage budgets, analyze data, and make strategic decisions to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare services. They must also stay up-to-date with changes in healthcare laws, regulations, and technology.
Overall, Medical and Health Services Managers play a critical role in ensuring that healthcare facilities operate efficiently and provide high-quality care to patients. They are well-compensated for their expertise and leadership skills, making them one of the highest-paid non-physician jobs in healthcare.