Non-clinical health care job growth in Massachusetts, by the numbers
We reviewed the fastest-growing jobs in both short-term outlook, 2014-2016, and long-term outlook, 2012-2022 in Massachusetts (see charts). Just to establish a benchmark: the marker for faster than average job growth is any percentage increase of 14 percent or more on the long-term side. The occupations are ranked below by the percentage of job growth in Massachusetts 2012-2022, the most recent long-term projection available at press time, and the forecasts are derived directly from BLS’ employment projections program. Projections for 2014-2024 will be available in December.
34.8: Health Specialties Teachers and Nursing Instructors and Teachers: (36.1 percent U.S.)
High demand, but many jobs may be part-time and/or non-tenured. Additionally, filling positions will be dependent on school funding, which can’t be predicted over the long term. (On the upside: A great addition to one’s resume and a plus for those seeking to network with the research community in Massachusetts.)
27.1: Medical Secretaries: (36 percent U.S.)
Medical secretaries will be needed to handle administrative tasks related to billing and insurance processing.
26.9: Medical Repairers: (30.3 percent U.S.).
The complexity of the equipment being repaired, and the urgency to get it back on line contribute to growth. Many new entrants will be needed to fill vacated positions – indicating that high turnover will be a factor fueling job growth.
26.6: Health Technologists and Clinicians: (26.7 percent U.S.)
Medical laboratory technologists and technicians will be in demand, to use and maintain the equipment needed for diagnosis and treatment.
24: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians: (30 percent U.S.)
An increase in the aging population will lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures. Federal health legislation will increase the number of patients who have access to health insurance, increasing patient access to medical care.
23.8: Health Educators: (19 percent U.S.)
The need to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by teaching people about healthy habits and behaviors and utilization of available health care services are driving job growth. Community health workers who have completed a formal education program and those who have experience working with a specific population may enjoy favorable job prospects, with additional opportunities for candidates who speak a second language.
21.2 Medical Health Services Managers: (23 percent U.S.)
Employment is projected to grow in offices of health practitioners. Many services previously provided in hospitals will shift to these settings, especially as medical technologies improve. Demand in medical group practice management is expected to grow as medical group practices become larger and more complex.
18.5: Medical Records and Health Information Technicians: (22 percent U.S.)
Expanded coding criteria and the adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) could lead to an increased need. Cancer registrars are expected to continue to be in high demand. As the population ages, there will likely be more types of special purpose registries because many illnesses are detected and treated later in life. Prospects will be best for those with a certification in health information, such as the RHIT or the CTR.
17.3: Medical Equipment Preparers: (20.3 percent U.S.)
Prepare, sterilize, install, or clean laboratory or healthcare equipment. May perform routine laboratory tasks and operate or inspect equipment.
15.2: Pharmacy Technicians: (20 percent U.S.)
Pharmacy technicians may take on a greater role in pharmacy operations as pharmacists perform more patient care activities such as giving flu shots. Technicians will collect patient information, prepare more types of medications, and verify the work of other technicians, tasks formerly done by pharmacists.
11.6: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists: (14 percent U.S. clinical; 30 percent medical, U.S.)
11.4: Pharmacists: (14 percent U.S.)
Scientific advances will lead to new drug products, requiring more trained dispensers. The growing number of pharmacy schools in recent years has created more pharmacy school graduates and therefore more competition for jobs. Students who choose to complete a residency program gain additional experience that may improve their job prospects. Certification from the Board of Pharmacy Specialties or as a Certified Diabetes Educator may also be viewed favorably by employers.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-15 Edition
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