Public Health
Public health professionals protect the health of a variety of populations, from neighborhoods to an entire nation. They prevent problems from happening or re-occurring by implementing educational programs, policies, and services; by regulating health systems and some health professions; as well as conducting research.
Common areas of Public Health (more can be found at ).
- Community Health: Focuses on work with defined communities to identify and resolve public health problems and to promote well-being.
- Education: Interdisciplinary study focusing on how health education can affect behavior and lifestyle decisions that have an impact on public health.
- Epidemiology: Application of the scientific method to the study of disease in populations for the purpose of prevention and control.
- Biostatistics: Study of theories and techniques for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative data relevant to public health issues.
- Maternal and Child Health: Focuses on the improvement of public health delivery systems for women, children, and their families through advocacy, education, and research.
- Global Health: Study of health across national boundaries and of socioeconomic, cultural, and other factors causing disease that transcend national borders, ethnicity, and other divisions.
Registered Nurse (RN)
RN’s assess health problems and the needs of patients, develop and implement nursing care plans, and maintain medical records. They also advise patients on health maintenance and disease prevention. Licensing or registration is required.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists compound and dispense medications following prescriptions issued by physicians, dentists, or other authorized medical practitioners.
Nutritionist
Dietitian nutritionists use nutrition and food science to help people improve their health. Nutrition and dietetic technicians work with dietitian nutritionists to provide care and consultation to patients while also providing general nutrition education. Both roles are nationally credentialed and are an integral part of healthcare and foodservice management teams.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists are health practitioners who focus on holistic methods to promote the ability of patients — both physically and mentally — to fulfill daily routines and roles. They build patients' fine motor skills and encourage rehabilitation through the performance of activities required in daily life.
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists improve movement and manage pain of injured or ill patients. Practitioners in this role typically work in preventive care, rehabilitation, and treatment.
Allied Health Profession
There are a variety of health-related careers beyond nurse, doctor, veterinarian, etc. Examples of these professions include Athletic Trainers, Radiological and MRI Technologists, as well as practitioners of alternative medicine.
Psychology
Psychology is a diverse field with a variety of opportunities. Many psychologists work as health care providers to assess behavioral and mental function and well-being of patients. Psychologists can also teach, conduct basic applied research, and serve as consultants to communities and organizations.
