Physical Therapist

Job Duties

Physical therapists (PTs) help patients restore function, improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities. They often focus on overall fitness, and they work with a wide range of patients, from accident victims to people with lower back pain or cerebral palsy. After examining a patients' medical history, physical therapists perform a series of tests that may include strength, range of motion, balance and coordination, posture, muscle performance, respiration, and motor function. Then they create treatment plans and implement those plans with the assistance of physical therapist assistants.

Physical therapists help patients to use their own muscles, increase their flexibility, and add to their range of motion. After this phase, they move on to different sets of exercises that improve strength, balance, coordination, and endurance. The overall goal in these situations is to help the patient function more effectively at home and work. Physical therapists use a variety of tools to assist them in their work including, electrical stimulation, hot packs or cold compresses, ultrasound, traction, or deep-tissue massage. They also work with patients to help them learn how to use equipment such as crutches, prostheses, and wheelchairs. Physical therapists document a patients' progress and often consult with other health professionals, such as physicians, nurses, social workers, and audiologists.

Job Skills

Physical therapists should be compassionate and have a passion for helping other people. They need to have well-developed interpersonal communication skills so they can effectively educate patients and their families regarding treatments.

Income

In 2002, physical therapists earned a median annual salary of $57,330. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $40,200, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $86,260. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of physical therapists:

• Home health care services -- $62,480
• Offices of other health practitioners -- $58,510
• Offices of physicians -- $57,640
• Nursing care facilities -- $57,570
• General medical and surgical hospitals -- $57,200

Training and Education

In all U.S. States, physical therapists must graduate from an accredited physical therapist educational program and pass a licensure exam before they can begin practicing. There are about 200 accredited physical therapist programs in the U.S., offering both master's and doctoral degrees. These programs begin by covering the basic sciences, such as biology, chemistry, and physics, and then move on to more advanced courses, such as biomechanics, neuroanatomy, human growth and development, manifestations of disease, examination techniques, and therapeutic procedures. Many programs require students to participate as a volunteer in a physical therapy department of a hospital or clinic before they can graduate. Physical therapists are usually required to continue their education throughout their careers, and some States require this in order to renew licenses.

Employment

In 2002, physical therapists held about 137,000 jobs. About two-thirds worked in offices of health practitioners or in hospitals.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of physical therapists is expected to increase faster than the average. This is because the number of individuals with disabilities or limited function is expected to rise, creating more demand for the services of physical therapists. Medical advances will allow more trauma victims to survive, and those patients will need physical therapy. A growing public interest in health promotion will also increase demand.

For more information on becoming a physical therapist, please see our directory of Physical Therapy Schools

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/medical_careers/physical_therapist

Pharmacy Technician

Job Duties

Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in providing medication to pharmacy patients. They are responsible for a variety of routine tasks, such as counting tablets and labeling bottles, and refer any prescription questions to a pharmacist. They usually work in retail or mail-order pharmacies and their duties vary in accordance with State regulations. They greet customers and take written prescriptions from customers. They check to ensure the information on the prescription is accurate and complete. Then they begin preparing the order. To do this, they may retrieve, count, pour, weigh, measure, and sometimes mix medication. They create a prescription label and container, then check the prescription with a pharmacist. They may also keep patient records, prepare insurance forms, and stock inventory.

Pharmacy technicians who work in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted-living facilities have more responsibility than those working in pharmacies. They are responsible for reading patients' charts, preparing medicine, and delivering it to patients. They may also put together a 24-hour supply of medicine for every patient in the facility. They package and label the doses separately, placing them in the patient's individual medicine cabinet where it is checked by a pharmacist before it is delivered.

Job Skills

Pharmacy technicians should have well-developed communication and customer service skills. They need to be alert, observant, organized, dedicated, and responsible. They must be good at following directions accurately. They should also be able to pay extremely close attention to detail.

Income

In 2002, pharmacy technicians earned a median hourly wage of $10.70. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $7.44, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $15.82. The following shows the median annual salaries in the industries employing the highest numbers of pharmacy technicians:

• General medical and surgical hospitals -- $12.32
• Grocery stores -- $11.34
• Drugs and druggist' sundries merchant wholesalers -- $10.60
• Health and personal care stores -- $9.70
• Department stores -- $9.69

Training and Education

Employers prefer to hire applicants for pharmacy technician jobs who have competed formal training, although most employers train employees on the job. Formal training programs include courses and laboratory work in areas such as medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy record keeping, pharmaceutical techniques, and pharmacy law and ethics. Many programs include internships that allow students to gain valuable experience working in pharmacies. Prospective employees who have experience working as an aide in a community pharmacy or volunteering in a hospital have a major advantage over their competitors. Pharmacy technicians can become voluntarily certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Eligibility requirements include a high school diploma, a record free of felony convictions, and successful passing of an exam. To renew their certification every 2 years, pharmacy technicians must complete continuing education courses.

Employment

In 2002, pharmacy technicians held about 211,000 jobs. Two-thirds worked in retail pharmacies. 22% worked in hospitals.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of pharmacy technicians is expected to increase faster than the average. The population will continue to age rapidly, creating more demand for pharmaceutical products. Job opportunities will be good for full- and part-time positions. Opportunity will by best for those with experience and formal education.

For more information on becoming a pharmacy technician, please see our directory of schools offering Pharmacy Technician Training

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/medical_careers/pharmacy_technician

Pharmacy Technician

Job Duties

Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in providing medication to pharmacy patients. They are responsible for a variety of routine tasks, such as counting tablets and labeling bottles, and refer any prescription questions to a pharmacist. They usually work in retail or mail-order pharmacies and their duties vary in accordance with State regulations. They greet customers and take written prescriptions from customers. They check to ensure the information on the prescription is accurate and complete. Then they begin preparing the order. To do this, they may retrieve, count, pour, weigh, measure, and sometimes mix medication. They create a prescription label and container, then check the prescription with a pharmacist. They may also keep patient records, prepare insurance forms, and stock inventory.

Pharmacy technicians who work in nursing homes, hospitals, and assisted-living facilities have more responsibility than those working in pharmacies. They are responsible for reading patients' charts, preparing medicine, and delivering it to patients. They may also put together a 24-hour supply of medicine for every patient in the facility. They package and label the doses separately, placing them in the patient's individual medicine cabinet where it is checked by a pharmacist before it is delivered.

Job Skills

Pharmacy technicians should have well-developed communication and customer service skills. They need to be alert, observant, organized, dedicated, and responsible. They must be good at following directions accurately. They should also be able to pay extremely close attention to detail.

Income

In 2002, pharmacy technicians earned a median hourly wage of $10.70. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $7.44, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $15.82. The following shows the median annual salaries in the industries employing the highest numbers of pharmacy technicians:

• General medical and surgical hospitals -- $12.32
• Grocery stores -- $11.34
• Drugs and druggist' sundries merchant wholesalers -- $10.60
• Health and personal care stores -- $9.70
• Department stores -- $9.69

Training and Education

Employers prefer to hire applicants for pharmacy technician jobs who have competed formal training, although most employers train employees on the job. Formal training programs include courses and laboratory work in areas such as medical and pharmaceutical terminology, pharmaceutical calculations, pharmacy record keeping, pharmaceutical techniques, and pharmacy law and ethics. Many programs include internships that allow students to gain valuable experience working in pharmacies. Prospective employees who have experience working as an aide in a community pharmacy or volunteering in a hospital have a major advantage over their competitors. Pharmacy technicians can become voluntarily certified by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Eligibility requirements include a high school diploma, a record free of felony convictions, and successful passing of an exam. To renew their certification every 2 years, pharmacy technicians must complete continuing education courses.

Employment

In 2002, pharmacy technicians held about 211,000 jobs. Two-thirds worked in retail pharmacies. 22% worked in hospitals.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of pharmacy technicians is expected to increase faster than the average. The population will continue to age rapidly, creating more demand for pharmaceutical products. Job opportunities will be good for full- and part-time positions. Opportunity will by best for those with experience and formal education.

For more information on becoming a pharmacy technician, please see our directory of schools offering Pharmacy Technician Training

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/medical_careers/pharmacy_technician

Pharmacist

Job Duties

Pharmacists dispense drugs prescribed by physicians to patients. They inform patients about the medications they'll be using and inform physicians of information regarding drug selection, dosages, interactions, and side effects. They help make sure patients use drugs safely and effectively by keeping track of their progress and their responses to the drugs. Many pharmacists work within a particular community, such as in a drugstore, healthcare facility, hospital, nursing home, or mental health institution. In these settings, they offer counseling to patients about prescription drug use, including some over-the-counter drugs. Sometimes their advice goes outside the boundaries of drugs to include diet, exercise, stress management, or home healthcare supplies. Some pharmacists own or mange a community pharmacy, which includes duties such as supervising other workers, ordering inventory and supplies, and generally directing the operation of the pharmacy.

One important aspect of the work of pharmacists is record-keeping. Computerized records are used to keep track of a patient's drug therapy history and to make sure harmful drug interactions do not arise. Pharmacists are assisted by pharmacy technicians and pharmacy aides in dispensing prescriptions. Pharmacists often supervise the work of pharmacy students who intern in their pharmacy as part of their requirements for graduation and licensure.

Job Skills

Pharmacists need to have an aptitude for science. They should be conscientious and have the ability to pay close attention to detail, as their decisions can often have a drastic impact on the lives of others. They also must have good communication skills and a passion for helping people.

Income

In 2002, pharmacists earned a median annual salary of $77,050. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $54,110, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $94,570. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of pharmacists:

• Grocery stores -- $78,270
• Health and personal care stores -- $76,800
• General medical and surgical hospitals -- $76,620

Training and Education

All U.S. States require a license to practice pharmacy, which can be obtained only after graduation from a college of pharmacy accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE). Applicants for licenses must also pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Exam (NAPLEX) and the Multistate Pharmacy Jurisprudence Exam (MPJE), except in California where a different test is administered. Almost all States do not require extensive re-examination in order to maintain pharmacy licenses, but most require continuing education. Many pharmacists are licensed to practice in more than one State.

About 85 colleges of pharmacy are accredited by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education to grant the degree of Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.). This degree can only be obtained after at least 6 years of postsecondary study and the successful completion of a State licensure exam. Entry requirements to these programs usually include courses in mathematics and natural sciences, such as chemistry, biology, and physics, as well as courses in humanities and social sciences. 50% of colleges of pharmacy require their applicants to take the Pharmacy College Admissions Test (PCAT).

Employment

In 2002, pharmacists held about 230,000 jobs. About 62% worked in community pharmacies. Most community pharmacists were salaried.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of pharmacists is expected to increase faster than the average. This is due to a growing elderly population, whose pharmacy needs are rising due to their increased use of medication. Employment opportunities are expected to be excellent because the number of qualified graduates of colleges of pharmacy is expected to be lower than the number of job openings.

For more information on becoming a pharmacist, please see our directory of schools offering Medical Training

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/medical_careers/pharmacist

Optometrist

Job Duties

Optometrists, sometimes referred to as doctors of optometry, or ODs, provide their clients with many types of vision care and treatment. They diagnose vision problems and eye diseases by examining the eyes of individuals, testing for visual acuity, depth and color perception, and ability to focus and coordinate the eyes. Based on the results of their eye tests, they recommend various treatments, including eyeglasses, contact lenses, vision therapy, and low-vision rehabilitation. Treatments may include prescribing drugs to patients, and may assist them before and after eye operations. They do not perform eye operations, though, as this is the domain of opthalmologists. When they diagnose other conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, they refer those patients to other specialists.

A majority of optometrists operate a general practice. However, some specialize in areas such as the elderly, children, or partially sighted persons who need specialized visual devices. Some specialize in job safety, creating methods for protecting the eyes of workers from injury. Others specialize in contact lenses, sports vision, or vision therapy. A small number teach, consult, or perform research. Most run their own private practice who are responsible for organizing all aspects of their business, including office functions, hiring, record-keeping, and ordering equipment.

Job Skills

Optometrists should be self-motivated and able to work independently. They need to have the ability to deal with patients in a compassionate and tactful manner. They must have well-developed manual dexterity, as well as attention to detail. Good business sense also comes in very handy.

Income

In 2002, optometrists, including both salaried and self-employed, earned a median annual salary of $110,000. The middle 50% earned between $82,50 and $156,500. Those who were self-employed earned more than those who were salaried.

Training and Education

In every State in the U.S., optometrists are required to be licensed. In order to obtain a license, they must possess a Doctor of Optometry degree from an accredited optometry school and pass a written and clinical exam. Continuing education is required to renew licenses, which occurs every 1 to 3 years. Students earn a Doctor of Optometry degree by completing 3 years of pre-optometric college study, followed by a 4-year program at an optometry school. Optometry programs are offered at 17 accredited U.S. schools and colleges. Most students of optometry have at least a bachelor's degree. In order to be admitted to an optometry program, students must have competed courses in English, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. Some schools require psychology, history, sociology, speech, or business. Many applicants major in biology, chemistry, or another science.

Optometry programs cover the health and visual sciences, along with laboratory and clinical study of eye disorders and courses in pharmacology, optics, vision science, biochemistry, and systemic disease. Optometrists need a master's or Ph.D. degree in visual science, physiological optics, neurophysiology, public health, health administration, health information and communication, or health education in order to be able to conduct research or teach.

Employment

In 2002, optometrists held about 32,000 jobs. About two-thirds were in private practice, and a growing number were involved in a partnership with other optomotrists.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of optometrists is expected to increase about as fast as the average. This is mainly due to a growing and aging population which will need the services of optometrists more and more. Aging baby boomers will become more likely to develop vision problems, some of which will be associated with increased viewing of computer screens.

For more information on becoming an optometrist, please see our directory of schools offering Medical Training

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/medical_careers/optometrist

Occupational Therapist

Job Duties

Occupational therapists (OTs) work with people who have mental, physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities. They strive to help these people live independent, productive, and satisfying lives. They assist them in developing or improving their ability to perform daily living and work skills. They help some patients recover their motor functions or reasoning abilities, and they help others deal with the permanent loss of these functions and abilities. OTs help clients perform a wide range of tasks, from operating a personal computer to basics such as eating, cooking, and dressing. They utilize computer programs to better assist clients in regaining decision-making, abstract-reasoning, problem-solving, and perceptual skills.

Occupational therapists assist people who have permanent disabilities, including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy. They help them use equipment such as wheelchairs, splints, and aids for eating and dressing. They may also design specialized equipment for work or home. Other occupational therapists specialize in working with people whose ability to work has been impaired. They arrange employment, evaluate work environments, plan work activities, and assess the client's progress. They often work with the employer to make sure that the worker's needs are met.

Job Skills

Occupational therapists need to be imaginative in creating activities to suit the needs of various individuals with disabilities. They should also have a high degree of patience, as well as well-developed interpersonal skills. They must be able to inspire trust in their clients.

Income

In 2002, occupational therapists earned a median annual salary of $51,990. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $35,130, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $74,390. The following shows the median annual salaries for the industries employing the highest numbers of occupational therapists:

• Offices of other health practitioners -- $53,660
• Nursing care facilities -- $53,930
• General medical and surgical hospitals -- $53,210
• Elementary and secondary schools -- $45,740

Training and Education

The minimum educational requirement for entry into the field of occupational therapy is a bachelor's degree. Starting in 2007, a master's degree will become the new minimum requirement. Occupational therapists must obtain the designation "Occupational Therapist Registered" (OTR) by graduating from an accredited program and passing a national examination. 38 schools offered bachelor's degree programs, 3 offered post-baccalaureate certificate programs for students with a degree other than occupational therapy. 48 programs offered a combined bachelor's and master's degree, and 5 offered an entry-level doctoral degree. Coursework in occupational therapy programs includes physical, biological, and behavioral sciences and the application of occupational theory and skills. 6 months of supervised fieldwork is required for graduation.

Employment

In 2002, occupational therapists held about 82,000 jobs. 10% held more than one job, and the highest number of jobs were found in hospitals.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of occupational therapists is expected to increase faster than the average. This will be due to the growing population, a bi-product of which is steady growth of individuals with disabilities. The aging baby-boomer generation will also increase demand for occupational therapists.

For more information on becoming a occupational therapist, please see our directory of schools offering Medical Training

http://www.education-online-search.com/articles/careers/medical_careers/occupational_therapist