The Rapid Expansion of Health Care Careers and Their Earnings
The U.S. healthcare industry is the fastest-growing sector within the economy, expected to contribute to about 45% of the projected job growth between 2023 and 2033, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This expansion is largely driven by the rapidly increasing elderly population. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of individuals aged 65 and over soared at an unprecedented rate, the fastest since the late 1800s, according to Census Bureau data.
Furthermore, rising healthcare expenditures resulting from boosted federal and state investment are generating additional job prospects. This growth follows an expanded access to care thanks to health initiatives and greater enrollment in Medicare and Medicaid programs. In 2023, Medicare expenses jumped by 8.4% to nearly $900.8 billion, while Medicaid spending increased by 9.2% to $734 billion, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. In total, national health spending grew by 2.7% to $4.3 trillion, accounting for 18.3% of the gross domestic product.
As a consequence, there is a notable increase in the need for healthcare professionals, especially those focused on care for older patients. A review of the Bureau of Labor Statistics data highlights which healthcare roles are projected for the most rapid growth in the next decade. This includes physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and healthcare managers, all anticipated to see significant employment growth.
#15. Athletic Trainers
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 4,800 (14.1% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $53,840
These sports medicine specialists provide crucial support to athletes, focusing on injury prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation while enhancing athletic performance through personalized conditioning plans.
#14. Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 12,000 (14.3% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $81,350
Using sound waves and imaging technology, these professionals generate detailed images of internal organs and tissues, aiding in the diagnosis and management of various conditions, often working in hospitals.
#13. Hearing Aid Specialists
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 1,500 (14.5% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $59,020
These specialists conduct hearing assessments, help clients choose suitable hearing aids, and assist with fitting and using these devices.
#12. Physical Therapists
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 37,300 (15.1% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $97,720
Physical therapists play a crucial role in enhancing patients’ mobility and managing pain through targeted exercise regimens, aiming to minimize dependence on surgeries or medications.
#11. Orthotists and Prosthetists
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 1,500 (15.4% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $77,070
These professionals create and fit medical devices such as braces and prosthetic limbs, crucial for helping patients regain movement and monitoring their rehabilitation journey.
#10. Genetic Counselors
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 600 (16.1% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $89,990
These specialists assess hereditary health risks and provide guidance on interpreting genetic testing results and their implications for patients and families.
#9. Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 6,200 (16.5% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $58,250
These professionals focus on maintaining electronic health records and analyzing patient data to improve healthcare service delivery.
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#8. Massage Therapists
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 24,600 (18.3% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $49,860
Massage therapists use manual techniques to alleviate pain and promote overall wellness, enhancing relaxation and circulation.
#7. Speech-Language Pathologists
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 33,100 (19.3% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $84,140
Specialists in communication, these professionals assist individuals with speech and language disorders, facilitating improvements in communication and social skills.
#6. Home Health and Personal Care Aides
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 804,600 (21.7% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $30,180
These aides provide essential support with daily activities, helping patients sustain independence while receiving necessary care at home.
#5. Occupational Therapy Assistants
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 10,800 (24.0% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $64,250
Occupational therapy assistants play a key role in enabling patients to engage in everyday tasks and may also perform clerical functions to aid recovery.
#4. Physical Therapist Assistants
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 26,300 (26.1% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $62,770
These assistants, under the supervision of physical therapists, contribute to rehabilitation programs and track patient progression.
#3. Physician Assistants
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 39,300 (26.5% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $126,010
These licensed practitioners work collaboratively with physicians to perform examinations, diagnose illnesses, and create treatment plans.
#2. Medical and Health Services Managers
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 144,700 (28.4% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $104,830
Responsible for the management of healthcare facilities, these managers ensure quality care delivery while effectively managing staff and resources.
#1. Nurse Practitioners
– Anticipated additional jobs by 2033: 118,600 (44.5% increase from 2023) – Median annual earnings in 2023: $121,610
Nurse practitioners are essential in managing patient care, applying their expertise to assess, diagnose, and treat various health conditions, often functioning similarly to physicians but typically requiring less training.
