What are non-clinical healthcare roles in the medical industry ?
You wake up one day and realise you don't enjoy direct patient care. Not happy with Clinical roles, and want to switch careers after spending 4-5yrs on your clinical role degree. But you are also interested in the medical arena, Hospitals and medical terminologies and case studies, medical policies still interest you?
Well, you don't have to worry. There is a diverse sector of non-clinical roles in the healthcare industry without direct patient care but are important for the optimal functioning of the healthcare system.
Non-Clinical roles in healthcare Industry
- Healthcare Administration - Every Healthcare facility needs a manager to manage and oversee the day to day operations of the facility. Hospital CEOs, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Nursing Officer, Department managers, Clinical Director, Clinical Administrator etc. all come under this area. They are responsible for ensuring healthcare services are provided efficiently, effectively and safely.
- Health Informatics - The design, development and algorithms of complex IT infrastructure to improve healthcare services, research and patient outcomes come under this sector. They ensure the security and functioning of Electronic Health Records, medical devices etc. Job titles Health informatics specialists, Health IT project managers, Medical informatics researchers, Clinical data analysts all come under this sector.
- Medical Billing and coding - They are professionals who translate medical diagnosis and procedures into codes which are easy to store and are used in billing and insurance purposes. Here is a link to attain a free diploma certificate in Medical billing and coding: https://alison.com/tag/medical-coding . Job titles Medical coder, Medical Biller, Claims examiner, coding auditor etc. come under this sector.
- Pharmaceutical Sales and Marketing - These professionals play a crucial role in promoting medications, vaccines, medical devices and other healthcare products to healthcare providers. Job titles Sales representatives, Business development manager, Marketing manager, Digital marketing specialists come under this sector.
- Public Health - A multidisciplinary field where professionals work to improve the overall health of communities by Education, Prevention and Policy advocacy. Job titles Health commissioner, Public Health Administrator, Epidemiologists, Health Educator, Environmental Health Specialist, Patient Navigator, Health Policy Analyst, etc. all come under this sector.
- Medical Research - Non-clinical professionals contribute to medical advancements through data analysis, project management, grant writing etc. Job titles Research coordinator, Clinical Research Associate, Biostatistician, Medical writer, Research scientist, Data manager, Regulatory Affairs Specialist etc. all come under this sector.
The Advantages of a Non-Clinical Career
- Diverse opportunities
- Better Work-Life balance
- Job security and stability
- Competitive salaries
- Continuous personal growth
- Flexible scheduling
- Advancement in career
- Less physical demands
Prerequisites
To build a fulfilling and rewarding career in Non-clinical roles which are diverse so are the requirements. Some roles need a Bachelor’s degree while some senior level roles need a Master’s degree or specific certification or training in that area of expertise. Experience, internships and volunteering work are also added as a great value to one’s CV or resume. Networking is the key in making connections in the industry.
Conclusion
The Healthcare industry depends on clinical and non-clinical professionals for the effective and efficient deliverance of its service to the public. Individuals seeking a career in non-clinical path need to understand the required skills and roles available according to their desire for a career goal. Non-clinical career is a rewarding career pathway with potential to grow and a stable job, which has important contributions for the well-being of patients and the public.