Written By: Maggie Brown (maggiethe_journalist)

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, numerous rewarding career paths offer competitive salaries of $87,000 and beyond, and many of them are accessible for those eager to start their journey today.

Whether you’re inclined to provide direct patient care, operate cutting-edge medical equipment, or play a vital role in diagnostic procedures, the healthcare industry presents a wealth of opportunities.

With the right education, certification, or training, you can embark on a fulfilling career in healthcare while enjoying the financial rewards that come with it.

Explore roles as diverse as registered nursing, radiologic technology, respiratory therapy, dental hygiene, medical laboratory technology, occupational therapy assisting, and diagnostic medical sonography, each offering a pathway to financial stability and professional fulfillment.

Here are the seven healthcare careers and what they entail in order for you to make that $87,000 or more:

1. Registered Nurse (RN): You can start by earning an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in nursing and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
2. Radiologic Technologist: You can become a radiologic technologist with a two-year degree and certification in radiography.
3. Respiratory Therapist: Entry into this field typically requires an Associate’s degree in respiratory therapy.
4. Dental Hygienist: You can become a dental hygienist by completing a two-year dental hygiene program.
5. Medical Laboratory Technologist: Earning a Bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science or a related field is the usual path.
6. Occupational Therapist Assistant: You can become an OTA with an Associate’s degree from an accredited program.
7. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer: Pursuing a two-year sonography program or a related Bachelor’s degree can lead to this career.

These careers offer good earning potential and are accessible with varying levels of education and training. However, specific requirements may vary by location and employer, so it’s essential to research opportunities in your area.