October 28, 2016, by Lizzie Weakley – Healthcare specialists in the military are often referred to as combat medics. Their main job in the army is to provide medical assistance on the field to their injured comrades. Also, they rescue and evacuate fellow, injured soldiers. Also, many work behind the lines or at bases. Here are seven great healthcare positions in the civilian sector for retired military medics.
Paramedic or Emergency Medical Technician
Military medic duties have a lot of similarities with what civilian paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). They all require knowledge of emergency procedures, safely moving the injured or sick and each occupation demands calm.
Medication Aide
Becoming a medication aide is another avenue someone with a military background in healthcare might be interested in. They typically work outside of hospitals, and they mostly function within assisted living facilities. The job mostly involves passing out medications, but it is a stepping stone to more advanced healthcare careers.
Emergency Preparedness and Bioterrorism Coordinator
This particular occupation requires a master’s degree in healthcare, but it is fitting for someone still wanting to serve their country by defending it from attack. These workers stay in close contact with health departments and policy advisors to supervise staff training and execute emergency management plans.
Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists are in high demand and are crucial in the industry. No college degree is necessary, and it take can take up to 12 weeks to get certified. Former medics with this certificate will find it much easier to obtain employment and a higher starting salary.
Ultrasound Tech
Ultrasound techs do not require a college degree, and former medics will find familiarity during the training process. The starting pay is good. It is also a good chance to explore other avenues in the medical field.
Surgical Technologist
Becoming a surgical tech allows former medics to work inside operating rooms, get equipment ready and help the surgeons with whatever they need. The starting pay is more than decent for a job requiring no college degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage is approximately $41,000.
Physician Assistant
With additional education within the military or outside of the military, the background of a medic is ideal for becoming a physician’s assistant, which is one of the higher paying jobs available. Physician’s assistants can perform almost any function a doctor can, however, they are officially under the supervision of an assistant.
Retired military medics receive extensive training, and sometimes the practical training they receive is under heavy duress on the battlefield. The education and training they receive helps ready them for a number of jobs when they become civilians. Some of the jobs above require college degrees, and many will find success with no college needed.
Author Bio: My name is Lizzie Weakley and I am a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. I went to college at The Ohio State University where I studied communications. I enjoy the outdoors and long walks in the park with my 3 year old husky Snowball.