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What does a Health Professional do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A health professional is a person who provides healthcare services.

Health Professional job duties include:

  • Advising patients on healthy lifestyle choices
  • Monitoring patients’ health and progress
  • Detecting early signs of illness or disease
  • Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests
  • Prescribing medication and other treatment options
  • Referring patients to specialists when necessary
  • Collaborating with other members of the healthcare team
  • Educating patients and their families about their condition
  • Documenting patient care services

Health Professional Job Requirements

There are many different types of health professionals, so the job requirements vary depending on the specific position. However, most health professionals need at least a bachelor's degree in a health-related field. Many positions also require certification or licensure from a professional organization. In addition, many health professionals have several years of experience working in the field before they advance to a management or leadership position.

Health Professional Skills

  • Communication
  • Observation
  • Patience
  • Empathy
  • Attention to Detail
  • Physical Stamina
  • Mental Stamina
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Thinking
  • Flexibility
  • Teamwork

Related: Top Health Professional Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Health Professional

There are many ways to become a health professional. One way is to attend an accredited college or university and complete an undergraduate or graduate degree in health sciences, such as nursing, public health, or kinesiology. Alternatively, many health professions require certification from professional organizations, such as the National Board of Medical Examiners or the American Nurses Association. Some health professions also require licensure from state boards of medicine or nursing.

Once you have completed the necessary education and/or certification requirements, you will need to find a job in a hospital, clinic, or other healthcare setting. Many health professionals start their careers as entry-level employees and work their way up the ladder. Some may eventually become managers or administrators. Others may choose to open their own private practices.

No matter what path you take to becoming a health professional, it is important to remember that providing quality care for patients is always the top priority. Health professionals must be able to effectively communicate with patients and their families, as well as with other members of the healthcare team. They must be able to work long hours and handle stress well. They must also be compassionate and caring, and have a genuine desire to help others. If you have these qualities and are interested in a career in healthcare, then becoming a health professional may be the right choice for you!

Related: Health Professional Resume Example

Related: Health Professional Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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