What does a Health Specialist do?

A health specialist is a professional who helps people maintain their health and well-being. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Health specialists may also work in public health or research.

Health Specialist job duties include:

Advising patients on health and wellness
Educating patients on preventative care and health maintenance
Ordering, performing, and interpreting diagnostic tests
Prescribing medications and treatments
Coordinating care with other healthcare providers
Managing chronic health conditions
Promoting healthy lifestyles and behaviors
Counseling patients and families on coping with illness and stress
Providing emotional support to patients and families

Health Specialist Job Requirements

A Health Specialist typically has a degree in public health, health education, or a related field. Many positions also require certification from a professional organization such as the National Board of Public Health Examiners. Some employers may prefer candidates with several years of experience working in public health or a related field.

Health Specialist Skills

Analytical skills
Communication skills
Interpersonal skills
Problem-solving skills
Organizational skills
Time management skills
Research skills
Writing skills
Critical thinking skills
Active listening skills
Empathy

How to become a Health Specialist

There are many ways to become a health specialist. One way is to attend a college that offers a degree in health science or a related field. Alternatively, many community colleges offer two-year programs in health science that can lead to a career as a health specialist. In addition, many hospitals offer training programs for individuals interested in becoming health specialists. Finally, many professional organizations offer certification programs for individuals who want to specialize in a particular area of health care.