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Which Medical Careers Are Most in Demand?

Which Medical Careers Are Most in Demand

Are you interested in a career in the medical field? You’ve come to the right place! Explore high-demand medical jobs, discover salaries, learn about education requirements, and find job outlooks for sought-after medical professions. From phlebotomists to midwives, every role plays a vital part in healthcare. You can make a significant difference in the well-being of others with a diverse range of medical career paths.

From a relief pharmacist to a home health aide and everything in between, let’s look at the medical careers most in demand in 2024.

Relief Pharmacist

Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense medications, counsel patients, and ensure safe drug use across diverse healthcare settings. They’re pivotal in promoting optimal health outcomes in various settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, relief positions, or pharmaceutical companies. They must be able to communicate well, focus on important details, and work well with customers.

Average salary in the United States:
$152,308

Average salary in Canada:
$131,480

Education needed:

  • U.S. — High school diploma or GED, bachelor’s degree in a field like biology or medical chemistry, take and pass the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT), Doctorate of Pharmacy. Pass two licensing exams through the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam and get state-specific licensing.
  • Canada — Bachelor’s degree in pharmacy, Doctorate of Pharmacy, board certification through the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada. Complete an apprenticeship or internship at a pharmacy.

Predicted job outlook: Growth up to 3% by 2032

Relief Pharmacist

A relief pharmacist fills open pharmacy shifts, working at different locations based on staffing needs. They dispense medications, counsel patients, and manage inventory, and must have good communication skills, adaptability, and a keen eye for details.

Relief pharmacists have the unique opportunity to travel between states and provinces, gaining more experience as they work in different pharmacy environments and interact with new customers. They also have more freedom in their schedule, choosing where and when they want to work and for how much — this is an excellent way to take control of a pharmacy career and increase income at the same time!

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Phlebotomist

Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists draw and collect blood samples from patients. They work in various settings, including laboratories, clinics, and hospitals, and must have strong organizational and communication skills and keen attention to detail.

Average salary in the United States:
$31,425

Average salary in Canada:
$46,164

Education needed:

  • U.S. — High school diploma or GED and phlebotomy program certificate
  • Canada — Graduate from a recognized Canadian Post-Secondary Institution in a Medical Discipline with phlebotomy training

Predicted job outlook: Growth up to 10% by 2028

Optometrist

Optometrist

An optometrist specializes in examining and diagnosing vision problems and eye disease. They typically work in clinics, private practices, or retail settings and prescribe contacts or glasses as needed. Optometrists need strong interpersonal skills to help educate patients about their eye care.

Average salary in the United States:
$150,448

Average salary in Canada:
$156,302

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Bachelor’s degree and Doctor of Optometry degree
  • Canada — Undergraduate degree, doctorate degree, and one-year residency program

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 10% by 2031

Physician Assistant

Physician Assistant

PAs work under the supervision of a physician and perform similar services. They can work in hospitals, clinics, or specialty practices and can complete physical exams, diagnose illnesses, and create treatment plans. PAs should have strong communication and analytical skills and adapt to fast-paced environments.

Average salary in the United States:
$121,972

Average salary in Canada:
$102,014

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Bachelor of Science degree and a master’s degree focusing on physician assistant studies
  • Canada — Undergraduate degree and a two-year physician assistant program

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 31% by 2029

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners (NPs) can diagnose, treat, and prescribe medications and work in clinics, hospitals, and primary care offices. NPs also complete physical assessments, manage chronic conditions, and order diagnostic tests to promote preventative care and overall health. They should have strong interpersonal skills and be able to communicate to help their patients feel at ease.

Average salary in the United States:
$124,226

Average salary in Canada:
$116,981

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Master’s degree in nursing and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (some states)
  • Canada — Master’s degree in nursing or a nursing program with advanced primary nursing education

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 38% by 2032

Dentist

Dentist

Dentists diagnose and treat oral health issues, providing services like cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They educate patients on proper oral hygiene and may perform cosmetic procedures. Attention to detail is essential during procedures, ensuring precision and patient comfort.

Average salary in the United States:
$230,162

Average salary in Canada:
$207,144

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Bachelor’s degree and a Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD)
  • Canada — Undergraduate degree and a DDS, DMD, or BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 7% by 2034

Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory therapists specialize in respiratory care in hospitals or other healthcare settings. Their responsibilities include assessing patients with breathing disorders, conducting diagnostic tests, and administering treatments like oxygen therapy. They should have strong communication skills and remain calm in emergencies.

Average salary in the United States:
$70,514

Average salary in Canada:
$76,577

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Associate’s degree (at minimum) from an accredited respiratory therapy program and can get a master’s degree in respiratory care
  • Canada — Three-year college or university degree in respiratory therapy

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 13% by 2032

Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in dispensing medications. They work in pharmacies, hospitals, or retail settings and receive prescriptions, package medications, and manage inventory. Technicians also handle administrative tasks and interact with patients. They should have strong customer service skills and be highly organized to dispense prescriptions accurately.

Average salary in the United States:
$37,790

Average salary in Canada:
$49,164

Education needed:

  • U.S. — High school diploma or GED and a one-year certificate or diploma from a pharmacy technician program
  • Canada — Two-year pharmacy tech program and supervised practical training. Both options require passing a certification exam from the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 6% by 2032

Physical Therapist

Physical Therapist

Physical therapists work in hospitals, clinics, or rehabilitation centers to help patients recover from injuries or surgeries. They evaluate physical conditions, create treatment plans, and guide patients through exercises to improve their health. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial skills for working with other healthcare professionals and meeting the diverse needs of each patient.

Average salary in the United States:
$90,535

Average salary in Canada:
$88,335

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Bachelor’s degree and a doctoral program in physical therapy
  • Canada — Four-year undergraduate degree with PT-focused courses and a two-year master’s degree in physiotherapy

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 15% by 2032

Sonographer

Sonographer

A sonographer, also called an ultrasound tech, uses imaging equipment to capture internal images of a patient’s body. They work in hospitals, diagnostic centers, or physician offices and can assist in diagnosing medical conditions and monitoring pregnancy. Sonographers should have an excellent eye for details and communicate effectively to create accurate diagnostics.

Average salary in the United States:
$79,996

Average salary in Canada:
$79,307

Average salary in the United States: $79,996
Average salary in Canada: $79,307
Education needed:

  • U.S. — Associate’s or bachelor’s degree with a focus on science and anatomy classes and a certificate in diagnostic medical sonography
  • Canada — Three- to four-year program for medical sonography

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 10% by 2032

Midwife

Midwife

A midwife provides more holistic care to pregnant women before, during, and after childbirth. They can work in hospitals and clinics or attend home births, provide personalized support, conduct prenatal exams, and assist with labor and delivery. Midwives need strong interpersonal skills and need to be able to stay calm in potential birthing emergencies.

Average salary in the United States:
$111,326

Average salary in Canada:
$95,172

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Master of Science in Nursing with a specialty in midwifery
  • Canada — Bachelor’s degree in midwifery education

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 38% by 2032

Massage Therapist

Massage Therapist

Massage therapists work in wellness centers, spas, or private practices, providing therapeutic massages to their clients. They assess clients’ injuries and pain, develop treatment plans, and perform massages to aid in pain relief and relaxation. A massage therapist needs good communication skills and the ability to create calm, comfortable environments for their clients.

Average salary in the United States:
$57,707

Average salary in Canada:
$67,859

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Massage therapy certificate or diploma and pass the licensing exam
  • Canada — Complete a massage therapy program (between 18 and 36 months) and register with a regulatory body

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 18% by 2032

Audiologist

Audiologist

Audiologists diagnose and treat hearing and balance disorders. They conduct hearing tests, provide rehab services, and recommend hearing aids. Audiologists need strong analytical and communication skills to create accurate assessments and treatment options. They can also work outside of direct patient care by participating in research or contributing to hearing health programs.

Average salary in the United States:
$82,770

Average salary in Canada:
$78,851

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Bachelor’s degree and a Doctor of Audiology degree
  • Canada — Bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in Audiology

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 11% by 2032

Dental Hygienist

Dental Hygienist

Hygienists work with dentists and focus on preventive oral care. They can work in clinics, private practices, or community health settings and handle dental cleanings, oral health screenings, and patient education regarding oral health. Dental hygienists should have excellent attention to detail, good communication skills, and a calming presence to help patients with dental anxiety.

Average salary in the United States:
$90,671

Average salary in Canada:
$84,869

Education needed:

  • U.S. — At least an associate’s degree in dental hygiene, but can also get a bachelor’s or master’s in the same field
  • Canada — Two- to three-year college dental hygiene program

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 7% by 2032

Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapist

Occupational therapists assess clients’ needs and develop personalized intervention plans to help individuals perform daily activities. They work in hospitals, schools, or rehabilitation centers to address physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges and improve clients’ overall quality of life. OTs should have effective communication skills to speak with clients and their families.

Average salary in the United States:
$84,237

Average salary in Canada:
$82,146

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Graduate from an accredited OT program and pass the exam from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy
  • Canada — Complete an entry-to-degree program for a Master of Science in occupational therapy and pass the national certification exam

Predicted job outlook: 12% by 2032

Optician

Optician

Opticians work in optical retail settings, interpreting prescriptions and assisting customers with selecting and fitting eyewear. They also repair or adjust glasses as needed. Opticians require strong customer service skills to recommend frames and explain lens options. Accuracy is important for taking measurements and ensuring proper lens alignment.

Average salary in the United States:
$53,019

Average salary in Canada:
$52,500

Education needed:

  • U.S. — High school diploma or GED and on-the-job training or an associate’s degree or technical certificate
  • Canada — Two- or three-year college program in optical sciences

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 3% by 2032

Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapist

Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to cancer patients, and they usually work in treatment centers or hospitals. RTs operate specialized equipment, provide emotional support, and monitor patients during treatments. They need to be precise and pay close attention to the details to ensure they deliver accurate radiation dosages and should have exceptional communication skills.

Average salary in the United States:
$92,300

Average salary in Canada:
$85,618

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy and pass a certification exam
  • Canada — Two- to three-year college or approved program in diagnostic radiography or magnetic imaging

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 2% by 2032

Dietitian

Dietitian

Dietitians provide nutrition guidance to individuals or groups in hospitals, clinics, or community settings by assessing nutritional needs, developing meal plans, and educating clients on healthy eating habits. They can specialize in sports or clinical nutrition and collaborate with other healthcare teams. Strong communication skills help them motivate clients to make positive dietary changes.

Average salary in the United States:
$80,477

Average salary in Canada:
$80,594

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Bachelor’s degree in nutrition
  • Canada — Undergraduate degree in human nutrition and dietetics

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 7% by 2032

Registered Nurse

Registered Nurse

Registered nurses (RNs) work in various healthcare settings, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and coordinating patient care plans. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals and require strong communication and critical thinking skills to provide safe and effective care.

Average salary in the United States:
$89,010

Average salary in Canada:
$73,185

Education needed:

  • U.S. — Bachelor of Science in nursing and passing the NCLEX-RN exam
  • Canada — Four-year bachelor’s degree in nursing, passing the NCLEX exam, and getting licensed in your province

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 16% by the end of 2024

Home Health Aide

Home Health Aide

Home health aides assist individuals with personal hygiene, meal preparation, and medication reminders. They work under healthcare professionals’ guidance and require qualities such as compassion and effective communication to build close relationships with clients and report any changes in their condition.

Average salary in the United States:
$28,514

Average salary in Canada:
$39,000

Education needed:

  • U.S. — High school diploma or GED, formal training is provided on the job along with a standardized test
  • Canada — High school diploma or equivalent and complete a home health aide training program

Predicted job outlook: Growth of 22% by 2032

Make the Most of High-Demand Jobs in Healthcare

There are so many medical careers in demand right now, and medical professionals have numerous job options to choose from. For pharmacy professionals who want to make the most of their careers, relief work is another exciting career option. With ShiftPosts, you can pick up open shifts when and where you want, giving you the flexibility to create a personalized work/life balance that meets your needs.

Download our app and get registered to take advantage of this pharmacy shift work opportunity and how it’s quickly becoming one of the most in-demand healthcare jobs in the industry.

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Pharmacy Delivery vs. In-Person

Asion female receives medication package

We live in a time when convenience reigns supreme, meaning people continually look for ways to make everyday tasks more efficient. One such task is the traditional practice of visiting a pharmacy in person to pick up prescriptions. Now, due to their ease and convenience, brick-and-mortar pharmacies face stiff competition from pharmacy delivery and on-demand services.

So, what does this rising trend mean for traditional in-person pharmacies? Is pharmacy delivery the way of the future in the industry? Keep reading to learn more.

Close up of Pharmacist packing medication package

Pharmacy Prescription Delivery Is Growing

In recent years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of customers using delivery services for their prescriptions has slowly increased. A study by CoverMyMeds found that 36% of pharmacy customers more often opt for mail-order, home delivery, or online options to get their prescriptions. In many cases, customers prefer prescription delivery services because they’re more convenient and flexible, allowing them to save time and have hassle-free transactions.

With this rise in delivery popularity, many pharmacies find they need additional staff to meet their growing demands. With the ShiftPosts app, pharmacies can quickly find qualified, verified pharmacists to help them build and manage their pharmacy delivery business.

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Reasons for the Growing Popularity of Pharmacy Delivery

So, why are more and more people opting for prescription pick-up and delivery services? Here are a few potential reasons.

Accessibility

Online, mail-order, and delivery-based pharmacies are more accessible to individuals who can’t visit a traditional pharmacy due to location, transportation, physical obstacles, or health limitations. These people appreciate that they can access pharmacy delivery services without leaving their homes.

Increased Adherence for Customers

Pharmacy delivery businesses have become increasingly popular due to their potential to improve medication adherence. When customers don’t have to remember to physically pick up a prescription and instead get it delivered on a consistent schedule, they’ll always have their medications available without missing any dosages. As a result, people can adhere to their prescribed treatment schedules more effectively.

Third-Party Courier Services Available for Smaller Pharmacies

With third-party courier services, even small pharmacies can offer pharmacy delivery services to their customers. This is a great way to enhance customer satisfaction and improve overall retention since people won’t have to switch to a larger pharmacy that offers delivery.

Customer Retention

Prescription delivery enhances patient convenience and fosters customer loyalty by granting patients greater control and flexibility over their healthcare experience.

Close up of medication package being delivered

How Pharmacies Are Delivering Prescriptions

Pharmacies employ various delivery methods to meet the diverse needs of their clientele.

Digital Pharmacy

Digital Pharmacy

Customers complete prescription requests online, and delivery is handled through third-party options.

Local Delivery

Local Delivery

Prescriptions are sent to an independent local pharmacy, which delivers medications back to the customer’s home.

Chain Pharmacy Delivery

Chain Pharmacy Delivery

Customers send prescriptions to a pharmacy chain like Walgreens or Rite Aid, and they use their own delivery person or a third-party option to get the prescriptions out.

What Delivery Is Missing Compared to Home Delivery

While pharmacy prescription delivery offers undeniable advantages, it isn’t without limitations. Challenges for clients can include:

  • Complicated setup
  • Issues with delivery
  • New prescriptions taking longer to fill
  • Difficulty reaching a pharmacist, reducing customers’ ability to ask questions

The Future of the Pharmacy Experience

As the pharmacy industry and delivery models continue to evolve, the debate surrounding home delivery versus in-person visits persists. Opinions vary, with some advocating for the convenience and efficiency of prescription pick-up and delivery services, while others emphasize the importance of maintaining brick-and-mortar pharmacies as hubs for personalized care and consultation.

Each approach has advantages and disadvantages, and it’s unlikely that either option will supersede the other. Moving forward, we’ll likely see the adoption of more delivery and on-demand services, but brick-and-mortar stores will still be the preferred choice for many.

Female Pharmacist scanning bottles at pharmacy

On-Demand Delivery Services

As demand for prescription delivery grows, questions arise regarding the involvement of on-demand delivery services such as DoorDash or Uber in fulfilling these needs. Additionally, consumers may wonder about the delivery options offered by major pharmacy chains like Rite Aid, Walmart, or Walgreens, including delivery and mail-order services.

Can DoorDash, Uber, or Other Delivery Services Pick Up Prescriptions?

Yes, DoorDash has provisions for pharmacy pickup and delivery. However, strict protocols are in place for this option to ensure the prescriptions are delivered correctly and aren’t tampered with before they reach the client.

Uber Eats also offers prescription delivery through a third-party app, Nimble. There are some types of prescriptions, however, that cannot be delivered through this platform, including controlled substances and prescriptions under Medicare Part B.

Do Rite Aid, Walmart, or Walgreens Deliver or Mail Prescriptions?

  • Rite Aid: Yes, but not for controlled substances or medications that need refrigeration.
  • Walmart: Yes, though some restrictions may apply.
  • Walgreens: Yes, including same-day delivery on eligible prescriptions.

Preparing for the Future of the Pharmacy Industry

While brick-and-mortar pharmacies aren’t going anywhere, pharmacy delivery services have changed the pharmacy experience, and debate continues about whether delivery or in-person experiences are best. As the industry adapts to this shift, pharmacies will need to find a balance between convenience and personalized care.

Partner with ShiftPosts for all your pharmacy staffing needs to prepare for future industry changes. That way, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way, whether it’s technology advancement, service changes, or anything in between.

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A Revolutionary Approach to Healthcare Staffing

Healthcare workers sitting in a modern hospital

ShiftPosts is a pharmacy and healthcare staffing platform that matches qualified professionals to open shifts in real time. In the span of just 2.5 years, we’ve become the trusted way 70% of pharmacies in Canada fill relief shifts. Now, we’re using this momentum to expand into the 30 billion dollar U.S. Healthcare market. market. The platform is available in 5 states so far and growing. Sign up and standby for great opportunities.

Let your local pharmacy know we are here!

Whenever you walk into a pharmacy ask the pharmacist if they have started using ShiftPosts. What they will find is a better way to work and support their career, and the pharmacy will suffer less short staffing.

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Our Visionaries Driving the Change

“As former CEO of United Resource Networks, I managed transplants for 45 million insured lives.”

David McClean, Co-Founder and Board Member, ShiftPosts

“When I was the CEO of Sutter Health, a 50,000-employee organization, I could tell you our biggest challenge was staffing.”

Pat Fry, Co-Founder and Board Member, ShiftPosts

“My forty-plus-year career in healthcare showed me just how inefficient traditional healthcare staffing can be, whether it’s at your local pharmacy or emergency room.”

David M.

“That’s why my co-founders, Dave, Pat, and I, started ShiftPosts. I’ve helped develop over 50 startups, managed over $2 billion in projects, and teach entrepreneurship at Stanford University.”

Elizabeth Cooper, CEO, ShiftPosts

The ShiftPosts co-founders bring decades of expertise from across the healthcare industry, and understand the critical importance of efficient healthcare scheduling of staff. It’s the single largest issue in healthcare today; getting the right person with the right skills to the right place on time. On our platform you simply pick and click.

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Invest in the Future With ShiftPosts

There are simply no more excuses for outdated healthcare scheduling and staffing practices. Join us in our mission to empower smart staffing solutions throughout the healthcare industry. Let your local pharmacy or friends who work in healthcare know they should join ShiftPosts. It is not just software, it’s life changing for those who use it.

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“I have used ShiftPosts over the past few months, and I must say there is no doubt that it’s a much easier and brand-new way of scheduling for our pharmacy staffing needs. On their website, you see a picture of the candidates, their education, work experience, and ratings they have received from their previous shifts, etc. The quality of candidates have been great, and I have asked for repeated shifts of the same candidates. Definitely a huge improvement from other agencies we have used in the past, no comparison.”

Albert, Pharmacist, South Western Ontario

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