Medical Transcriptionist
Medical transcriptionists listen to voice recordings provided by healthcare providers and convert them into written reports. These tasks can be completed from any location with a computer and internet connection, making it ideal for people who need a flexible career. Medical transcriptionists must have sharp listening skills, the ability to type quickly and accurately, and a thorough understanding of medical jargon. Most medical transcriptionist positions require a postsecondary certificate in medical transcription, which you can earn in person or online through many community colleges and vocational schools. Medical transcription students learn about human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and legal and grammatical best practices. Medical transcription certificate programs can usually be completed in less than one year.
Average Annual Salary: $34,730
Medical Registrar
Medical registrars are responsible for creating and maintaining databases of healthcare information. For example, they may compile data on treatment outcomes for individuals with a given medical condition on the local, regional, or national level. They also review and manage patient health information on file to ensure accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards. They play a vital role in organizing and analyzing medical histories, treatment data, diagnostic information, and other health documentation. Thanks to medical registrars, this data is readily available for healthcare providers, which contributes to efficient and effective patient care. Medical registrar positions require an associate’s degree as a minimum, though some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree. Certain jobs require specific credentials; for example, cancer registrars must have the Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) credential.
Average Annual Salary: $58,250
Medical Records Specialist
Medical records specialists focus on data entry and recordkeeping. They’re responsible for handling, organizing and maintaining patient records – a vital task in any healthcare facility. Additionally, they ensure all patient information is accurate, up-to-date, and available for healthcare providers to review. Some medical records specialists work as medical coders, assigning the appropriate care and billing codes to patient records for billing purposes. Educational requirements can vary, but most employers prefer candidates with a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in health information technology. Potential certifications include the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS), or Certified Coding Associate (CCA) certifications.
Average Annual Salary: $47,180
Medical and Health Services Manager
A medical and health services manager oversees the operations of a healthcare facility, such as a hospital, clinic, or nursing home. Their primary role is to ensure that the facility provides high-quality medical services while operating efficiently. They are responsible for developing and implementing policies, managing staff, overseeing budgets, and ensuring compliance with healthcare laws and regulations. These managers act as a crucial link between healthcare personnel and the administrative aspects of healthcare. They work to improve the efficiency of a facility delivery by managing resources, optimizing processes, and integrating the latest healthcare technologies and practices. While a job as a medical and health services manager requires some in-person work, much of the work can be completed at home or remotely. Becoming a medical and health services manager requires a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Average Annual Salary: $104,830
Virtual Health Educator
Virtual health educators impact public health and individual wellness through working with hospitals, nonprofits, government agencies, or other healthcare facilities. These professionals develop and deliver health education programs, often specializing in areas like nutrition, exercise, or chronic disease management. For example, a dietitian or nutritionist may work as a virtual health educator, advising patients on dietary practices that promote better health and prevent or manage disease. Depending on the work environment, health educators may work with individuals, families, or groups on personal or professional education. While many health education programs take place in person, this role easily translates to the online setting. A background in health education or a related field and a bachelor’s degree is typically required. However, some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree or higher, as well as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential.
Average Annual Salary: $60,400
Medical Assistant
A remote medical assistant performs various administrative and clinical tasks from a location outside the traditional healthcare setting, often from home. Their administrative responsibilities typically include tasks like scheduling appointments, managing patient records, handling correspondence, and processing insurance claims. They can also provide clinical support, assisting with patient intake procedures like gathering medical histories and coordinating with healthcare providers for patient care. They play a crucial role in ensuring smooth communication between patients and healthcare professionals, managing electronic health records, and providing necessary information for telemedicine consultations. Medical assistants need to complete a postsecondary medical assistant certificate program or hold an associate’s degree. Some employers prefer employees who are certified by organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants, American Medical Certification Association, or the National Center for Competency Testing. Their work supports top-notch functioning of a healthcare system that increasingly relies on digital technologies to deliver patient care.
Average Annual Salary: $38,270
