The healthcare industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, and Denver is no exception. As the city continues to thrive, the demand for skilled healthcare professionals has never been higher. With a wide range of career opportunities available, it's an exciting time for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. In this article, we'll explore the top Denver health careers in demand now, providing insights into the most sought-after roles and what it takes to succeed in these fields.
Denver’s Booming Healthcare Sector
Denver’s healthcare sector is booming, driven by an aging population, an increased focus on healthcare accessibility, and a growing need for specialized services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of healthcare occupations in the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO Metropolitan Division is projected to grow 22% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is creating a wide range of job opportunities for healthcare professionals, from entry-level positions to advanced roles.
Top Denver Health Careers in Demand
So, what are the top Denver health careers in demand now? Here are some of the most sought-after roles:
Key Points
- Registered Nurses (RNs) are in high demand, with a projected 9% growth rate in Denver from 2020 to 2030.
- Physician Assistants (PAs) are needed to help meet the growing demand for healthcare services, with a projected 31% growth rate in Denver.
- Mental Health Counselors are essential for providing support services to individuals and families, with a projected 22% growth rate in Denver.
- Health Informatics Specialists are in high demand, with a projected 13% growth rate in Denver, as healthcare organizations seek to improve their digital infrastructure.
- Physical Therapists are needed to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses, with a projected 32% growth rate in Denver.
Registered Nursing: A High-Demand Career
Registered Nursing (RN) is one of the most in-demand healthcare careers in Denver. With a projected 9% growth rate from 2020 to 2030, RNs are needed to provide direct patient care, administer medications, and coordinate care with other healthcare professionals. To become an RN, individuals must complete an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
| Education Requirements | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Associate's or Bachelor's degree in nursing | $76,840/year |
Physician Assistant: A Growing Field
Physician Assistants (PAs) play a vital role in the healthcare system, providing medical care and support to patients under the supervision of physicians. With a projected 31% growth rate in Denver from 2020 to 2030, PAs are in high demand. To become a PA, individuals must complete a Master’s degree in physician assistant studies and pass the PANCE exam.
Mental Health Counseling: A Growing Need
Mental Health Counselors are essential for providing support services to individuals and families dealing with mental health issues. With a projected 22% growth rate in Denver from 2020 to 2030, mental health counselors are in high demand. To become a mental health counselor, individuals must complete a Master’s degree in counseling or a related field and obtain licensure.
Health Informatics: A New Frontier
Health Informatics Specialists are in high demand, as healthcare organizations seek to improve their digital infrastructure and leverage data analytics to inform patient care. With a projected 13% growth rate in Denver from 2020 to 2030, health informatics specialists are needed to design, implement, and optimize healthcare information systems.
Physical Therapy: A Rewarding Career
Physical Therapists are needed to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses, and to improve their overall mobility and function. With a projected 32% growth rate in Denver from 2020 to 2030, physical therapists are in high demand. To become a physical therapist, individuals must complete a Doctoral degree in physical therapy and pass the NPTE exam.
What are the top health careers in demand in Denver?
+The top health careers in demand in Denver include Registered Nursing, Physician Assistant, Mental Health Counseling, Health Informatics, and Physical Therapy.
What education requirements do I need to become a Registered Nurse?
+To become a Registered Nurse, you must complete an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in nursing and pass the NCLEX-RN exam.
What is the median salary for a Physician Assistant in Denver?
+The median salary for a Physician Assistant in Denver is $108,610/year.
In conclusion, Denver’s healthcare sector is experiencing rapid growth, driven by an increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. The top Denver health careers in demand now include Registered Nursing, Physician Assistant, Mental Health Counseling, Health Informatics, and Physical Therapy. By understanding the education requirements, median salaries, and growth rates for these careers, individuals can make informed decisions about their future in healthcare.