Considering a career in the medical field? While becoming a doctor or nurse might be the first roles that come to mind, they aren’t the only options, nor are they suitable for everyone. The healthcare industry is vast and constantly growing, presenting a wide array of career opportunities. Fortunately, many fulfilling healthcare careers are accessible through certifications that can be earned in a year or less. This guide explores eleven different healthcare certifications you can achieve relatively quickly, offering insights into various job roles and their earning potential.
1. Certified EKG Technician (CET)
The heart’s vital role makes expertise in electrocardiograms (EKGs) highly valuable. Becoming a Certified EKG Technician (CET) is a strong move toward a rewarding and in-demand healthcare career. This certification allows you to directly engage in patient care within healthcare, without requiring years of extensive education. EKG technicians perform crucial tests that help diagnose and monitor heart conditions.
EKG Technician
Certifying organization: National Healthcareer Association
Average Salary: $63,020
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Expert Insight: “EKG tech is a great option for individuals seeking patient care roles without the need for blood draws or injections. Many EKG Techs are drawn to patient interaction but prefer a focused scope compared to the broader responsibilities of a medical assistant.” – Daisy Manteris, Allied Health instructor and combat medic
Job Demand: High. Projected job growth is 10% over the next decade.
Pros:
- Competitive salary
- Opportunities for career advancement
Cons:
- Can be a stressful environment
- May involve working non-standard hours
Learn More: How to Become an EKG Technician: Salary & Career Guide
2. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
Earning a Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) opens doors to various career paths within healthcare administration. While salaries vary, all CMAA roles provide valuable, transferable skills for advancing your healthcare career. Beyond becoming a medical office manager, a CMAA certification is foundational for a career as a medical administrative assistant. Comprehensive training programs may also prepare you for roles as medical office managers, often including preparation for additional certifications like CEHRS and CBCS, highly valued by employers.
Medical Office Manager
Certifying organization: National Healthcareer Association
Average Salary: $52,257
Source: Payscale (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Expert Insight: “The CMAA certification is ideal for those aiming to manage the administrative and front office operations of a medical facility. Certification demonstrates to employers that candidates possess essential skills and knowledge in areas such as scheduling, patient record management, inventory control, and billing, all critical for healthcare facility administration.” – Jaime Nguyen, MD, MPH, MS, Director of Healthcare Programs at the Penn Foster Group
Job Demand: Steady. While not the highest growth on this list, it’s a solid entry point into healthcare administration.
Pros:
- Good earning potential
- Consistent demand
Cons:
- Often requires experience and multiple certifications for advancement
- Can be a demanding role
Learn More: Medical Office Manager Certification Program
Medical Administrative Assistant
Certifying organization: National Healthcareer Association
Average Salary: $40,640
Job Demand: Significant. With over 682,630 positions currently, entry-level opportunities are plentiful.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Career growth potential
- Exposure to various software and systems, including Electronic Health Records (EHR)
Cons:
- May handle difficult patient interactions
- Can be stressful at times
Learn More: Medical Administrative Assistant Certification Program Description
3. Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
For those who thrive in a fast-paced environment, the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) certification is an excellent choice. A career as a medical assistant offers both significant responsibility and personal fulfillment. CCMAs are vital in supporting physicians and ensuring smooth patient flow.
Medical Assistant
Certifying organization: National Healthcareer Association
Average Salary: $38,270
Job Demand: High. The field is projected to grow 14% over the next decade.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Diverse responsibilities, blending clinical and administrative tasks
- CCMA certification complements certifications like EKG technician (CET) and phlebotomy technician (CPT)
Cons:
- Can be demanding and stressful
- May require weekend or evening work
Read More: How to Become a Medical Assistant (Infographic)
4. Physical Therapy Technician Certification (PTTC)
The Physical Therapy Technician Certification (PTTC) is for individuals passionate about physical rehabilitation and patient recovery. Becoming a physical therapy aide is an ideal entry point into the physical therapy sector. PTTC certified professionals assist physical therapists in patient care and clinic operations.
Physical Therapy Aide
Certifying organization: American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
Average Salary: $57,240
Job Demand: Strong. Projected growth is 19% by 2032.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Potential for flexible scheduling
- Opportunities for career progression
Cons:
- Certification reciprocity varies by state
- Can be physically strenuous
Learn More: Physical Therapy Aide Program Description
5. Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS)
The Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) certification offers versatility in health information management. It’s a strong foundation for several roles, including Certified Healthcare Documentation Specialist and Medical Records Specialist. CEHRS professionals are crucial in managing patient data in the digital age.
Certified Healthcare Documentation Specialist
Certifying organization: National Healthcareer Association
Average Salary: $47,180
Expert Insight: “The CEHRS certification is an excellent entry point into healthcare. Managing patient health records, which include diagnoses, treatments, and sensitive patient-provider communication, is vital for quality care. This certification signals to employers that you are skilled in health record management within healthcare settings.” – Jaime Nguyen, MD, MPH, MS, Director of Healthcare Programs at the Penn Foster Group
Job Demand: Growing. Projected growth is 8% over the next 8 years.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Potential for remote work
- Job security and demand
Cons:
- Requires continuous learning to stay updated with medical standards
- Limited patient interaction
Learn More: Healthcare Documentation Specialist Certification Program Description
Medical Records Specialist
Certifying organization: National Healthcareer Association
Average Salary: $47,180
Job Demand: Growing. Expected to grow by 8% by 2032.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Relatively short training duration
- Good work-life balance
Cons:
- Limited patient contact
- Can be occasionally stressful
Learn More: Medical Records Specialist Program Description
Furthermore, CEHRS skills are also valuable for roles like medical administrative assistants and medical office managers, enhancing career flexibility.
6. Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
The Certified Professional Coder (CPC) certification is an excellent starting point for a career focused on the financial and administrative side of healthcare. This certification is essential for roles in medical billing and coding, a field experiencing consistent demand. Medical coding is a critical function in healthcare, ensuring accurate billing and data management. Explore medical coding career paths to understand the diverse opportunities available. For a visual guide, check out this infographic on medical coding career paths: www.careerstep.com medical-coding-career-paths-infographic.
Medical Billing and Coding Professional
Certifying organization: American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
Average Salary: $47,180
Expert Insight: “Medical Billers and Coders are analytical thinkers who enjoy problem-solving and achieving accuracy. CPC certification demonstrates a robust knowledge base, making you a highly qualified candidate in any medical setting.” – Diana Murphy, Healthcare Programs Instructor, MSM, CPC, CPMA, CPC-I, CCA
Job Demand: Strong. Projected job growth is 8% in the next 8 years.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Excellent entry into healthcare administration
- Potential for remote work
Cons:
- Work can be repetitive
- Requires continuous updates on coding and billing standards
Learn More: Medical Billing and Coding Job Duties, Requirements, and Salaries
7. Certified Dental Assistant (CDA)
If you are interested in dentistry, the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) certification is your gateway. Dental health is paramount, making skilled dental assistants highly valued. While you can work as a dental assistant without CDA certification, becoming certified significantly enhances your job prospects in a competitive market.
Dental Assistant
Certifying organization: Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
Average Salary: $44,820
Expert Insight: “CDA is a widely recognized national certification for dental assistants. Its national recognition enhances job mobility, and in many states, it’s a prerequisite for becoming a registered dental assistant, highlighting its importance for career advancement.” – Jaime Nguyen, MD, MPH, MS, Director of Healthcare Programs at the Penn Foster Group
Job Demand: Good. Projected growth is 7% over the next 8 years.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Dynamic, fast-paced work environment
- High demand
Cons:
- Requires continuous learning about new dental technologies and materials
- Can be physically demanding
Learn More: Dental Assistant Program Outline
8. American Association of Psychiatric Technicians Level 1 (AAPT-Level 1)
Mental health is increasingly recognized as crucial, and the AAPT-Level 1 certification is ideal for those wanting to contribute to this vital field. As stigmas around mental health diminish, the role of mental health technicians and Behavioral and Psychiatric Health Technicians becomes ever more critical.
Mental Health Technician
Certifying organization: American Association of Psychiatric Technicians
Average Salary: $37,330
Job Demand: Growing. Projected job growth is 9% over the next 8 years.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Flexible work settings
- Expanding field
Cons:
- May involve evening or weekend shifts
- Can be emotionally challenging
Learn More: Mental Health Technician Training Program Description
Behavioral and Psychiatric Health Technician
Certifying organization: American Association of Psychiatric Technicians
Average Salary: $37,330
Job Demand: Growing. Projected to grow 9% over the next 8 years.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Potential for remote work opportunities
- Growing demand
Cons:
- May involve non-traditional work hours
- Can be physically demanding in certain settings
Read More: Behavioral Health Technician Training Outline
9. Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
The pharmaceutical industry offers stability and consistent demand. The CPhT certification is a strong choice for those seeking a career in an essential and evolving sector. Becoming a pharmacy technician offers a solid career path with growth potential.
Pharmacy Technician
Certifying organization: Pharmacy Technician Certification Board
Average Salary: $37,790
Job Demand: Growing. Predicted to grow approximately 6% by 2032.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Expanding industry
- Opportunities for career advancement
Cons:
- Can be physically demanding, requiring standing for long periods
- May include evening or weekend shifts
Learn More: Pharmacy Technician Program Description
10. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
Bloodwork is fundamental in healthcare diagnostics, making phlebotomists indispensable. If you are comfortable with medical procedures and patient interaction, becoming a phlebotomy technician could be a rewarding career.
Phlebotomy Technician
Certifying organization: National Healthcareer Association
Average Salary: $38,530
Job Demand: In demand. Projected job growth is 8%.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Plays a critical role in patient care
- High job demand
Cons:
- May involve working varied hours
- Can be emotionally taxing
11. Computer Technology Industry Association A+ (CompTIA A+)
The CompTIA A+ certification might seem unexpected in a healthcare context, but it’s increasingly relevant. As healthcare integrates technology, professionals with IT skills combined with healthcare knowledge are in demand. This certification can lead to a career in healthcare IT, bridging the gap between technology and medicine.
Healthcare IT
Certifying organization: Computer Technology Industry Association
Average Salary: $59,660
Job Demand: Steady. Projected growth is approximately 5% over the next 8 years.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Accessed March 26, 2024)
Pros:
- Good salary prospects
- High demand in a growing sector
Cons:
- Potential for after-hours or weekend work
- Can be a high-pressure environment
Learn More: Healthcare IT Certification Program Description
Choose the Right Medical Certification for Your Path
Each of these healthcare certifications offers a pathway to a fulfilling career in the medical field, achievable in a relatively short timeframe. While salary levels differ, each role provides unique rewards and opportunities for professional growth. For those prioritizing career advancement, several certifications on this list provide excellent stepping stones.
Explore CareerStep certifications to begin your healthcare career journey, enhance your current skills, or increase your earning potential. Consider the dynamic field of medical coding and billing as a particularly promising avenue, as highlighted in the CareerStep infographic on medical coding career paths.
