When contemplating a career in healthcare, many individuals think about working in a doctor’s office or hospital. However, the medical field offers a diverse range of options and specialties. With the appropriate degree and experience, you can work in various settings, assisting a variety of patients. Here are 15 types of healthcare facilities where you could be prepared to work.
1. Ambulatory Surgical Centers
Ambulatory surgical centers, also known as outpatient surgical facilities, offer surgical procedures outside of hospitals. Addressing concerns about limited hospital space and expensive inpatient stays, ambulatory care provides vital services to patients in need of surgery who are not recovering from illness or injury. Healthcare professionals are drawn to the predictable schedules and lower stress levels of an ambulatory care environment.
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2. Birth Centers
A birth center, as defined by the American Association of Birth Centers, is a healthcare facility for childbirth where care is provided in the midwifery and wellness model. The goal is to provide supportive, customized care to the mother and baby throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Birth centers typically do not have emergency staff or surgeons for cases of C-sections or neonatal intensive care concerns, catering only to healthy pregnancies without known risk factors.
3. Blood Banks
A blood bank is a center where blood and platelets are donated and stored for use. Emergency procedures or treatments may require a blood transfusion to save a life. Blood bank technologists, or immunohematology technologists, collect, test, and store blood for the community. Detail-oriented individuals who enjoy working in a laboratory setting will find immunohematology to be an excellent career choice.
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4. Clinics and Medical Offices
Clinics and medical offices encompass a wide range of healthcare services, including private practices, group practices, or corporate-owned clinics connected to hospitals. Patients visit these facilities for routine appointments and checkups, covering everything from physical therapy to well-child checks. Walk-in clinics have become more prevalent for nonemergency prescription needs, vaccines, and flu shots. Those considering clinical care should be prepared to address diverse patient needs.
5. Diabetes Education Centers
Diabetes education centers were created to help current patients manage their disease and educate at-risk patients on prevention. These facilities offer classes, resources, and support groups to assist individuals with diabetes and their families in leading healthy lives. Professionals interested in teaching and learning theories will thrive in this career. Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S according to the Centers for Disease Control.
6. Dialysis Centers
Dialysis centers provide life-saving dialysis procedures for patients with kidney disease. With the rising demand for dialysis due to chronic kidney disease affecting 37 million Americans, these centers play a crucial role in supporting patients and reducing strain on hospitals. Collaborative efforts of kidney doctors, nurses, specialists, dietitians, and patient care technicians contribute to the care of dialysis recipients.
7. Hospice Homes
Hospice homes specialize in end-of-life care, providing medical, emotional, and spiritual support to patients and their families in their last months of life. A hospice care team includes a personal physician, a hospice physician, nurses, home health aides, social workers, therapists, and more. Working in hospice care requires emotional resilience and acceptance of the process of death.
8. Hospitals
Hospitals are community facilities where the sick or injured receive medical or surgical care. Services vary based on size and location, with categories such as intensive (emergencies and serious illness or injury) and non-intensive (childbirth, surgery, recovery, etc.). Hospitals rely on the collaborative efforts of doctors, surgeons, nurses, lab technicians, medical record professionals, physician assistants, and more to provide excellent patient care and outcomes.
Imaging and Radiology Centers
While hospitals and clinics can offer imaging services, outpatient imaging and radiology centers provide a more cost-effective and time-efficient alternative. Patients can schedule CT scans, ultrasounds, X-rays, MRIs, and more in a nonemergency setting. To become a radiologist or radiology technician, a radiology degree is necessary. Professionals in this field verify conditions from broken bones to potential cancers, determine treatment plans, and support patient care throughout the process.
Imaging and Radiology Centers
In addition to hospitals and clinics, outpatient imaging and radiology centers are available for patients requiring imaging services. These centers offer a cost-effective and time-efficient option, allowing patients to schedule CT scans, ultrasounds, X-rays, MRIs, and more in a nonemergency environment. To pursue a career as a radiologist or radiology technician, obtaining a radiology degree is essential. Professionals in this field play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various conditions, supporting patient care throughout the process.
Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Centers
Mental health treatment facilities address general or specialized mental health concerns, such as suicidal ideation, depression, trauma, and anxiety. Similarly, addiction treatment centers focus on drug, alcohol, and behavioral addictions. These facilities offer inpatient and outpatient options to assist patients at different stages of the recovery process. Medical professionals interested in psychiatry, cognitive-behavioral therapy, group therapy, or rehabilitation can find this area of healthcare rewarding.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide living arrangements for patients with medical needs too serious for home management but not severe enough for hospitalization. Patients receive long-term medical care in a home-like environment, with social and emotional support through group events, occupational therapy, and outings. While the majority of nursing home residents are over 65, younger patients with long-term illnesses are also accommodated. Nursing homes rely on the efforts of managers, registered nurses, and nursing assistants.
Orthopedic Centers
Orthopedic medicine focuses on treating muscles, ligaments, joints, tendons, and bones. Patients visit orthopedic centers for various reasons, from athletic-related injuries to long-term disabilities. Medical professionals in orthopedics evaluate, diagnose, prevent, treat, and rehabilitate conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. These centers may offer general rehabilitation care or specialize in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or sports medicine. Physical and occupational therapists dedicated to helping patients regain mobility and independence work within these facilities.
Urgent Care
Urgent Care facilities provide on-demand care for patients who can’t wait for a scheduled appointment but don’t require emergency room attention. Professionals in urgent care focus on acute care for fractures, viral infections, blood and urine tests, and more. This service helps alleviate strain on hospitals and emergency departments. Healthcare professionals in urgent care should be ready for longer hours and frequent interactions with diverse patients.
Telehealth
Telehealth, or telemedicine, represents the growth of digital, remote healthcare. Through video conferencing or online chats, individuals lacking easy access to physicians or clinics can receive care. This advancement removes barriers like location, physical ability, or transportation limitations, ensuring patients receive the medical care and education they deserve. Telehealth professionals became vital during the COVID-19 pandemic, monitoring patients through self-quarantine and high community spread.
Long-Term Healthcare
Long-term healthcare focuses on patients with serious conditions requiring constant treatment. Medical professionals in this field assist individuals with ongoing health conditions, disabilities, or special needs. Long-term care includes in-home care via a home health aide, assisted living facilities for somewhat independent individuals, and nursing homes for those requiring full-time care. The demands of long-term care are significant, and compassionate, dedicated professionals are in high demand.
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