Allied Health Career Guide (2024)

Embarking on a career in allied health is not just a commitment to enhancing the well-being of others; it’s a journey into a diverse and rewarding field, where each role offers a unique way to make a difference. The world of allied health is rich with opportunities, each profession with its own distinct path.

While each allied health role is unique, requiring specialized education, certifications, and skills, the diversity within this field means there’s a place for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to diagnostic technology, hands on care, or support roles, you’ll find a profession that resonates with you.

Choosing an allied health role is an exciting venture, involving considerations such as education, career growth, responsibilities, salary, and work environment. This guide is here to support you in navigating the opportunities in allied health, helping you discover the profession that feels right for you, and offering insights into the unique paths and requirements of each role.

What

Does the patient population, care setting, daily tasks, and diagnoses found within this specialty interest you? Is it something you want to learn more about?

Education Requirements

Do you have the educational requirements necessary to work in a given role? If not, are they attainable for you, and would you be interested in pursuing them?

Care Advancement

Is there opportunity for professional growth? Do you have interest in pursuing additional certifications and experience within the field? Does the experience align with your career goals?

Certifications

Does this role require certifications? Are you committed to completing them and keeping them up to date?

Salary

Does the salary feel fair for the work? Will the salary support your lifestyle or cost of living? Family needs, etc?

Specialty Responsibilities

Are you interested in the procedures, types of patient interactions, makeup of the interdisciplinary team you'd be a part of, and the tools and technologies you'd be using (or lack thereof)?

Common Diagnoses

Are you interested in seeing, discussing, and treating patients with the most common diagnoses seen in this role?

Care Setting

Where you’re working can be just as important as what you’re doing! Do you think you would thrive in a role where you see many patients in a day? Or would you rather build relationships with the same patients in the inpatient setting?