Other assisting occupations in support of health services encompass a wide range of roles that provide essential assistance to healthcare professionals and staff. These workers are employed in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, medical clinics, offices of healthcare professionals, nursing homes, optical retail stores and laboratories, and medical pathology laboratories.[1]
Some examples of roles in this category include:
- Audiometric assistants and technicians
- Autopsy assistants
- Blood donor clinic assistants
- Cast room technicians
- Chiropractic assistants
- Clinical laboratory helpers
- Medical device reprocessing technicians
- Morgue attendants
- Ophthalmic assistants and laboratory technicians
- Optical laboratory assistants
- Optometrist assistants
- Orthopedic technologists
- Rehabilitation aides
- Therapy aides[1]
The specific duties of these workers can vary widely depending on their specialization, but may include tasks such as:
- Assisting pathologists during autopsies
- Preparing solutions for specimen preservation
- Transferring bodies in morgues
- Removing and preserving organ and tissue specimens
- Cleaning and preparing bodies for release to funeral homes[4]
Work-life balance in these roles can vary. About 83% of workers in this field are full-time, while 17% work part-time. Approximately 66% work year-round, with the remaining 34% working seasonally for an average of 44 weeks per year. The gender distribution in this field is predominantly female, with 81% women and 19% men.[7]
How to Become Other assisting occupations in support of health services -
To become an assisting worker in support of health services, follow these steps:
- Complete high school or equivalent education
- Pursue relevant post-secondary education or vocational training
- Gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions
- Obtain necessary certifications or licenses (if required for the specific role)
- Develop essential skills and competencies
Key skills and competencies required include:
- Strong communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work in a team
- Basic computer skills
- Knowledge of medical terminology
- Understanding of basic medical procedures
- Compassion and interpersonal skills
- Ability to follow instructions and protocols
- Physical stamina and dexterity
- Organizational skills[3]
Additional skills may include:
- Ability to perform tests and record results
- Knowledge of electronic health records (EHR) systems
- Proficiency in taking vital signs
- Understanding of infection control procedures
- Ability to assist with various medical examinations and procedures[6]
Scope and Career Progression:
The healthcare sector in India is rapidly growing, creating numerous opportunities for supporting roles. Career progression may involve:
- Starting in entry-level positions
- Gaining experience and specializing in specific areas of healthcare
- Moving into supervisory or management roles
- Pursuing further education to advance to higher-level healthcare positions
Salary:
While specific salary data for India is not provided, salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specialization.
Industry Trends and Future Outlook:
The employment outlook for other assisting occupations in support of health services is expected to be moderate in the coming years. This suggests steady growth and opportunities in the field.[7]
Key trends shaping the future of these roles include:
- Increasing demand for healthcare services due to an aging population
- Advancements in medical technology requiring specialized support staff
- Growing focus on preventive care and community health
- Expansion of telemedicine and remote healthcare services
While specific job growth percentages for India are not provided, the overall healthcare sector is expected to continue expanding, creating opportunities for supporting roles.
Citations:
[1] https://www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p3VD.pl?Function=getVD&TVD=1322554&CVD=1322870&CPV=33109&CST=01052021&CLV=5&MLV=5
[2] https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes310000.htm
[3] https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-jobs-for-medical-assistants
[4] https://www.gov.nl.ca/labourmarketinformation/career/biological-technologists-and-technicians-7/
[5] https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/health-care-support-jobs
[6] https://www.herzing.edu/types/medical-assistants
[7] https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/outlookreport/occupation/4544
[8] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_healthcare_occupations
[9] https://www.bls.gov/oes/2019/may/oes310000.htm
[10] https://www.randstad.in/job-seeker/job-profiles/healthcare-assistant/
[11] https://hellorache.com/types-of-medical-assistant/