Allied Health Careers

The world of allied health offers a diverse range of careers where collaboration is key. You'll work alongside doctors, nurses, therapists, and other specialists to deliver comprehensive care. Imagine an occupational therapist teaming up with a physical therapist to develop a rehabilitation plan, or a respiratory therapist working with a doctor to manage a patient's breathing. In allied health, your unique skills contribute to a well-coordinated team, all focused on achieving the best possible outcomes for patients.

Roles in allied health include:

• Diagnostic imaging technologists (radiologic technologists, X-ray techs) who use specialized equipment to take X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and other images to help diagnose injuries and diseases. Learn more about the field of Diagnostic Imaging here!
• Medical laboratory scientists who work behind the scenes in labs analyzing blood, tissue, and other samples to detect diseases, monitor medications, and support patient diagnosis and treatment. Learn more about Laboratory careers here!
• Occupational therapists who help people regain independence after illness or injury by teaching them new ways to perform daily activities like dressing, bathing, or cooking.
• Occupational therapy assistants who keep therapists informed of patient response to treatment in order to adjust, plan, and update goals,
  reassess or discharge.
• Physical therapists who focus on restoring movement and function after injuries or surgeries. They create personalized exercise programs and help patients manage pain.
• Physical therapy assistants who perform therapeutic procedures by administering manual exercises and instruct, encourage, and
  assist patients in performing physical activities.
• Speech-language pathologists who work with individuals who have difficulty communicating due to stroke, developmental delays, or other conditions. They help improve speech clarity, swallowing abilities, and overall communication skills.

A Typical Day in Allied Health

Liz, a spunky 72-year-old, shuffled into the physical therapy gym, her knee protesting with each step. A fall in her garden left her with limited mobility, and she yearned for her independent life. Her physical therapist, Joe, greeted her warmly and began assessing her range of motion. He noticed weakness in her core muscles, crucial for stability.

Joe wasn't alone in Liz's recovery journey. After his evaluation, he conferred with Brenda, the occupational therapist. Brenda observed Liz struggling to put on her socks and envisioned modifications that could make daily tasks easier. She consulted with Joe, suggesting grab bars for the bathroom and a sock aid tool. Together, they formulated a plan that addressed both Liz's physical limitations and her need to manage daily living.

The next session, Joe incorporated core strengthening exercises into Liz's physical therapy routine. Brenda, present for the session, offered tips on using the sock aid and demonstrated safe showering techniques with the newly installed grab bars. Liz, initially hesitant, felt a spark of hope as she completed a set of exercises without pain and donned her socks with newfound ease. The collaborative efforts of the allied health team empowered Liz on her path to regaining her independence.

Hear from some of the caregivers who make this work possible!