While you’re considering which degree on the medical majors list might suit you best, it can be helpful to explore which sort of medical field career you are most interested in. There are so many careers in the medical field to consider, such as the following:
Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat illnesses, injuries and other medical conditions. They are responsible for performing physical exams, ordering medical tests, recommending and performing treatments, prescribing medications and delivering patient education.
Doctors may choose from a wide range of specialties, such as:
- Primary care
- Cardiology
- Anesthesiology
- Dermatology
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Psychiatry
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics and gynecology
Pharmacists are experts in medications. They are responsible for dispensing medications according to a doctor’s prescription, and they sometimes counsel doctors about medications, such as their potential interactions, side effects and ideal dosages.
Patient education is a significant part of a pharmacist’s job, as patients need to know how to take medications according to the directions and which side effects to watch out for. Pharmacists also administer vaccinations to help patients stay healthy and avoid contagious diseases like the flu or measles.
Veterinarians care for animals, including domesticated pets, livestock and zoo animals. They are responsible for promoting healthy care practices, such as by educating clients about feeding their pets properly. In addition, veterinarians can:
- Examine animals, diagnose illnesses and injuries and prescribe treatments
- Provide wound care
- Operate medical equipment
- Vaccinate animals
- Euthanize animals when appropriate
Because of the word trainer, it’s sometimes thought that athletic trainers are the same as personal fitness trainers. In fact, they are healthcare professionals who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of sports injuries and illnesses.
Athletic trainers may do any of the following:
- Identify and evaluate injuries
- Administer first aid
- Apply devices intended to stabilize or prevent injuries, such as braces
- Develop rehabilitation programs for athletes recovering from sports injuries
- Plan and implement injury prevention programs for an organization
Athletic trainers may work with athletes of all ages and skill levels—from those participating in youth recreation leagues to professional athletes. It can be an ideal career for those interested in sports medicine.
Medical imaging is used to diagnose medical conditions, perform preventive health screenings and monitor a patient’s response to treatment. Radiologic technologists are responsible for operating medical imaging equipment and performing tests on patients in accordance with a doctor’s order.
Professionals in this role may do any of the following:
- Maintain and operate imaging equipment
- Take patients’ medical histories, shield non-targeted exposed areas and otherwise prepare patients for the imaging test
- Maintain patient records
- Coordinate with the doctor to determine if additional images are required
Some radiologic technologists choose to specialize in a particular type of imaging equipment, such as x-rays, computed tomography (CT) or mammography.
