Quick Certifications That Pay Well in Healthcare: 10 Great Options to Consider

If you’re interested in boosting your income and becoming more valuable to your employer, getting healthcare-related certifications can be an excellent way to achieve both goals quickly.

Many employers are willing to pay quite handsomely for healthcare professionals who also hold several certifications, mainly if those individuals can get them quickly.

Quick Certifications That Pay Well in Healthcare

Here are 10 great certifications that pay well in healthcare:

#1. Surgical Technologists

A surgical technologist is an important member of the surgical team. They are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is ready for surgery and that the patient is prepared for surgery.

They also assist during surgery and help care for the patient after surgery. If you have a high school diploma or GED, you can complete certification courses through the American Association of Surgical Technologists (AAST).

After completing courses and a certification exam, they earn anywhere from $42,000 to $72,000 annually.

#2. Emergency Medical Technician 

If you want a quick certification that pays well in healthcare, consider becoming an emergency medical technician (EMT).

EMTs are the first responders to medical emergencies and are responsible for stabilizing patients and transporting them to the hospital.

The job is demanding but also very rewarding. Plus, you can complete an EMT program in as little as six months.

Coursework includes CPR training, basic first aid skills, patient assessment skills, and anatomy and physiology training, among other topics.

#3. Certified Nursing Assistant

• Certified Nursing Assistant Median Annual Salary: $28,530

A certified nursing assistant (CNA) is a vital part of the healthcare team. They provide basic patient care and perform tasks such as taking vital signs, providing personal care, and moving patients.

CNAs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. The job outlook for CNAs is expected to grow 11% from 2019-2029.

#4. Certified Home Health Aide

• Certified Home Health Aide Median Annual Salary: $24,200

Home health aides provide basic medical and personal care services to patients in their homes. They typically work under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.

Home health aides must complete a training program and pass a certification exam.

Some states also require National Association for Home Care & Hospice certification.

To become certified, you must be at least 18 years old and meet these requirements:

• Pass an approved training course.
• Work as a caregiver with no restrictions or less than two months (in most cases) while enrolled in the course.
• Meet competency-based performance standards.

#5. Radiologic Technologist

A radiologic technologist is a healthcare professional who uses imaging technology to diagnose and treat patients.

Radiologic technologists typically need an associate’s degree, although some jobs may require a bachelor’s degree. Many states also require certification or licensure.

The median annual salary for a radiologic technologist was $60,070 in May 2019, with the top 10% earning more than $82,540.

Employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

So, if you are looking for quick certifications that pay well in healthcare, becoming a radiologic technologist is one of the best ways.

#6. Licensed Vocational Nurse

A licensed vocational nurse (LVN) provides basic nursing care. They work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or a doctor.

LVNs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. The median annual salary for an LVN is $46,240.

To become an LVN, you must complete an accredited vocational nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).

#7. Medical laboratory technician

A medical laboratory technician (MLT) is a healthcare professional who performs tests on blood, body fluids, and tissues. The results of these tests help doctors diagnose and treat diseases.

To become an MLT, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited MLT program, and pass a certification exam.

Most MLT programs take about two years to complete, and the average salary for an MLT is $51,770 per year.

#8. Hospice & Palliative Care Specialists

Hospice and palliative care specialists work with patients who are terminally ill. They help them manage their pain and symptoms and provide emotional support for patients and their families.

Hospice and palliative care specialists typically need at least a master’s degree, but some positions may require certification.

Certification is available through the National Board for Certification of Hospice and Palliative Nurses (NBCHPN).

The NBCHPN has three levels of certification: Certified Hospice Nurse, Certified Hospice/Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner, and Certified Clinical Palliative Care Nurse Specialist.

#9. Certified Phlebotomy Technician

A certified phlebotomy technician draws blood from patients for diagnostic testing.

The job outlook for this career is expected to grow by 25% over the next ten years, making it an excellent option for those looking for a stable career in healthcare.

To become certified, you must complete a phlebotomy training program and pass an exam.

The average salary for a certified phlebotomy technician is $32,000 per year.

#10. Public Health Educators

A public health educator is a professional who promotes health and wellness within a community.

They develop educational programs and materials, often working with government agencies, schools, and community organizations. Public health educators typically have a bachelor’s degree in public health or a related field.

To become certified as a public health educator, candidates must complete some coursework and an internship.

Frequently asked questions

Question 1: What are some good certifications for healthcare?

Answer: There are many great certifications for healthcare workers, but some stand out more than others. Above are the 10 short certificates that pay well in healthcare.

Question 2: How much do these certifications cost?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the organization offering the certification and the level of certification. However, most certifications range from $200-$1000.

Question 3: How long do these certifications take to complete?

Answer: Well, this varies depending on the organization and level of certification. However, most range from a few weeks to a few months.

Question 4: What is the job outlook for healthcare workers with these certifications?

Answer: The job outlook for healthcare workers is magnificent!

With an aging population and a shortage of qualified professionals, demand for nurses, physician assistants, pharmacists, dentists, etc., will continue to grow.

Conclusion

Many quick certifications pay well in healthcare. These are some great options to consider if you’re looking for a way to make a good salary in healthcare.

With the proper certification, you can make a good living in healthcare. And, with the proper certification, you can also help others while making a good living.