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Health Occupations
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Health System

Health Occupations

The health care industry is one of the largest employers in the United States, providing essential care across a wide range of settings.

Every day, around the clock, people who work in the health care industry provide care for millions of people, from newborns to the very ill. In fact, the health care industry is one of the largest providers of jobs in the United States.

Work Settings

Many health jobs are located in hospitals, but professionals also work in a variety of other environments, including:

  • Nursing homes
  • Doctors' offices
  • Dentists' offices
  • Outpatient clinics
  • Laboratories

Training Requirements

To work in a health occupation, you often must have special training. Some roles, such as doctors, require more than 4 years of college.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Frequently Asked Questions

Most RN positions require a 2‑year associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a 4‑year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). After completing the program, candidates must pass the NCLEX‑RN exam. Some hospitals prefer or require a BSN for new hires, especially for advanced practice roles.
Most technologists hold an associate degree in medical technology or a related field and must pass a certification exam from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Many employers also require state licensure or registration.
The path to becoming a doctor typically involves 4 years of undergraduate study, 4 years of medical school, and 3–7 years of residency training, depending on the specialty. After residency, physicians must pass board certification exams to practice independently.
Yes, many hospital positions such as medical assistants, phlebotomists, and nursing aides require only a high‑school diploma or a post‑secondary certificate. These roles often provide on‑the‑job training and can lead to higher‑level positions with additional education.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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