Pre-Health Advising encourages all students to explore the vast number of careers in healthcare. In this section, we have listed some of the most asked about healthcare professions. You may review an overview of the profession and academic requirements for each one. Learning about the different fields will allow you to make an informed decision about your own healthcare path.
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Dentists (DMDs or DDSs) diagnose and treat problems with a patient’s teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health.
Genetic Counselors (CGCs or LCGCs) provide a critical service to individuals and families by assessing their risk for a variety of inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders and birth defects. They provide information and support to other healthcare providers, or to individuals and families concerned with the risk of inherited conditions.
There are two kinds of practicing physicians in the United States: Allopathic Physicians (MDs) and Osteopathic Physicians (DOs). Physicians diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses. Both MDs and Dos are fully licensed physicians and use the same methods of treatment, including drugs and surgery.
Registered Nurses (RNs) provide and coordinate patient care, educate patients and the public about various health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their families.
Doctors of Optometry (ODs) are the independent primary health care professionals for the eye. Optometrists examine the eyes and other parts of the visual system. They also diagnose and treat visual problems and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes. They prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed.
Pharmacists (PharmDs) dispense medications prescribed by health practitioners and monitor patient health. They advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosages, interactions, and side effects of medications.
Doctors of Physical Therapy (DPTs) treat patients with injuries, disabilities, and disease, and can work with a variety of populations with a wide range of functional problems. Physical therapy uses physical methods to assist patients with functional problems from injuries or illnesses.
Physician Assistants (PAs) provide services under the supervision of physicians. PAs are trained to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive healthcare services, as deemed necessary by a physician.
A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), also known as a podiatric physician or surgeon, specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of foot disorders, diseases and injuries.
Public Health professionals improve human health and quality of life through the prevention and treatment of disease and other physical and mental health conditions, through the promotion of healthy behaviors and the analysis of global research and data.
Veterinarians (DVM or VMD) care for the health of animals and work to improve public health. They diagnose, treat, and research medical conditions and diseases of pets, livestock, and other animals.
Health care is a vast field that offers a range of diverse opportunities to help improve people’s health and well being. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects health care to be the fastest growing employment industry. This means more career possibilties for individuals who are passionate about caring for and helping others.
Interested in the Health Profession programs offered by Emory University?