Pennsylvania Healthcare Careers



The healthcare industry in Pennsylvania is rapidly growing, with entry-level positions seeing increased demand, particularly due to the aging population and the rise in healthcare needs.

Home Health Aides (HHAs), Personal Care Assistants (PCAs), Certified Nurse Aides (CNAs), Medical Assistants, and Pharmacy Technicians are some of the fastest-growing roles.

HHAs and PCAs, for example, assist clients with personal care tasks and daily activities, while CNAs provide essential support in long-term care settings under the supervision of nurses.

Medical Assistants perform both clinical and administrative duties in healthcare settings, and Pharmacy Technicians support pharmacists in preparing and filling prescriptions.

Many of these roles require minimal education, such as a high school diploma or certification, and offer significant opportunities for growth with further training.

As healthcare jobs continue to grow at a rate higher than most industries, these entry-level positions provide a solid foundation for advancing in the medical field.

For High Schoolers

Start Early and Plan Strategically

Charting a path to a health care career can begin in high school with intentional planning. Advanced courses in math and science, such as AP classes or dual enrollment, provide a head start, allowing students to bypass introductory college courses and explore advanced topics earlier.

Test-taking skills are equally crucial, as standardized exams like the SAT and ACT often predict future success on professional school entrance tests like the MCAT or DAT. Building these foundations early sets students up for a smoother transition into higher education and beyond.

Make Smart Choices in College

In college, choosing the right courses and major is key. Early enrollment in rigorous math and science classes tests your interest and ability in challenging subjects. Declaring a relevant major—such as biology—by sophomore year ensures you can complete the prerequisites for health professions school while fulfilling graduation requirements.

For those with diverse interests, overlapping fields like medicine and environmental policy can align well, but vastly different goals, such as art and physical therapy, may require prioritizing one path. Efficient scheduling and careful planning are critical to balance coursework and keep you on track for timely graduation.

Stay Flexible and Keep Your Goals in Sight

A direct path to a health care career isn’t the only route to success. Unexpected challenges, like changing interests or competitive admissions, may require alternative plans. Options include switching majors, taking a gap year to strengthen your application, or pursuing postbaccalaureate programs to enhance your qualifications.

Just as a playbook in football adapts to changing circumstances, your plan should remain flexible. The key is maintaining focus on your ultimate goal and choosing the path that best aligns with your interests and abilities, ensuring a rewarding career in health care.

For Adults

Changing careers as an adult is a bold and transformative decision, and healthcare stands out as one of the most rewarding and practical fields for career changers. Whether you’ve spent years in a different industry or are seeking greater fulfillment, healthcare offers stability, growth opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on others’ lives. With a wide array of roles that cater to diverse skill sets and educational backgrounds, it’s an excellent option for those looking to align their professional lives with their personal values.


A High-Demand, Stable Career Path

One of the most compelling reasons to transition into healthcare is the field’s consistent demand for skilled professionals. From nurses and medical assistants to public health experts and administrators, the healthcare sector is expanding rapidly due to aging populations and advancements in medical technology. For career changers, this means long-term job security and a wide range of opportunities, regardless of where you live. Many roles in healthcare also offer competitive salaries and benefits, making it a financially secure choice for those seeking a stable future.


Flexible Pathways for Entry

Healthcare careers accommodate a variety of entry points, making the transition accessible for adults with different levels of experience and education. Programs like accelerated nursing tracks, certificate courses, and online options allow individuals to balance their current responsibilities while training for a new role. For example, someone with a background in biology can quickly pivot to nursing or medical research, while individuals with strong organizational skills can excel in healthcare administration. This flexibility makes it easier for career changers to take incremental steps toward their new goals.


Transferrable Skills That Shine in Healthcare

Many skills from other industries translate seamlessly into healthcare roles. For example, professionals from fields like education, business, or technology bring strengths such as communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving that are invaluable in patient care and management. A teacher’s ability to explain complex topics can be applied to patient education, while a tech professional’s expertise can support advancements in health informatics. Recognizing and leveraging these skills can make the transition smoother and more rewarding.


A Career With Purpose

For those seeking greater meaning in their work, healthcare offers the opportunity to positively impact individuals and communities. Whether it’s providing life-saving care, improving access to health services, or supporting mental health initiatives, the work is inherently fulfilling. Many adult career changers cite the desire to contribute to a field that prioritizes compassion and service as their motivation for choosing healthcare. It’s a profession where you can see the tangible results of your efforts, making it deeply satisfying on a personal and professional level.


Accessible Education and Training

Healthcare offers various educational pathways tailored to career changers. Many programs, such as RN-to-BSN tracks or medical assisting certifications, are designed to be completed in as little as 12 to 24 months. Online classes, evening schedules, and financial aid options make it easier to transition while managing existing commitments. Additionally, hands-on training through internships and practicums ensures you gain real-world experience to build confidence and competency in your new role.


Choosing a career in healthcare as an adult is not just a professional decision—it’s a commitment to a more meaningful and stable future. With its demand for diverse skills, flexible educational pathways, and a mission rooted in service, healthcare offers a uniquely fulfilling opportunity for career changers ready to embrace their next chapter.

Helping Minorities

Health Care Is Not the Same for All of Us

It’s been well documented that not everyone in the United States receives the same kind of health care.

For example, did you know that: