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Definition and list of health professionals - Transforming and Scaling Up Health Professionals' Education and Training
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Transforming and Scaling Up Health Professionals' Education and Training: World Health Organization Guidelines 2013. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2013.
Transforming and Scaling Up Health Professionals' Education and Training: World Health Organization Guidelines 2013.
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Definition of health professionals
Health professionals maintain health in humans through the application of the principles and procedures of evidence-based medicine and caring. Health professionals study, diagnose, treat and prevent human illness, injury and other physical and mental impairments in accordance with the needs of the populations they serve. They advise on or apply preventive and curative measures, and promote health with the ultimate goal of meeting the health needs and expectations of individuals and populations, and improving population health outcomes.
They also conduct research and improve or develop concepts, theories and operational methods to advance evidence-based health care. Their duties may include the supervision of other health workers (adapted from ILO 2008; WHO 2010; Gupta 2011).
List of health professionals considered within the literature review
Occupations in this sub-major group are classified into several minor groups. To facilitate the development of the WHO guidelines for transforming and scaling up health professionals' education and training, the literature review will focus on the following list of health professionals, as defined by the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) (ILO 2008; WHO 2010).
Medical Doctors – both Generalist and Specialist Practitioners, including Public Health Doctors (ISCO-08 minor group 221).
Nursing Professionals, including Public Health Nurses (ISCO-08 minor group 222, unit 2221).
Midwifery Professionals, including Public Health Midwives (ISCO-08 minor group 222, unit 2222).
Dentists (ISCO-08 minor group 226, unit 2261).
Pharmacists (ISCO-08 minor group 226, unit 2262).
To simplify and streamline the literature review, this list excludes several groups under the ISCO-08 definition of health professionals, such as traditional and complementary medicine professionals (ISCO-08 minor group 223) , paramedical practitioners (ISCO-08 minor group 224), dieticians and nutritionists (ISCO-08 minor group 226, unit 2265), physiotherapists (ISCO-08 minor group 226, unit 2264), and several other therapy-related occupations.
Copyright © World Health Organization 2013.
All rights reserved. Publications of the World Health Organization are available on the WHO web site (www.who.int) or can be purchased from WHO Press, World Health Organization, 20 Avenue Appia, 1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland (tel.: +41 22 791 3264; fax: +41 22 791 4857; e-mail: tni.ohw@sredrokoob).
Requests for permission to reproduce or translate WHO publications –whether for sale or for non-commercial distribution– should be addressed to WHO Press through the WHO web site (www.
who.int/about/licensing/copyright_form/en/index.html).
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15 Types of Allied Health Professionals and What They Do
Any soccer or basketball fan will tell you it takes more than a few star athletes to make a complete team. The same is true in the health-care world. While physicians, pharmacists and nurses are essential providers, they aren’t the only players on the field. Allied health professionals are also critical, and some sources estimate they account for nearly 60 percent of the health-care workforce.
If you’re considering an eventual career in health care, you might want to take a closer look at some of these allied health roles. This overview can help give you a better understanding of what opportunities are out there for you.
15 different types of allied health professionals
There are a lot of careers that fall under the umbrella of allied health professionals, so think about where your passions lie as you peruse this list of potential career paths.
1. Anesthesiologist assistant
Anesthesiologist assistants work with physicians to provide high-quality anesthetic care to patients.
Because they need a solid background in biological sciences and a firm understanding of numerous medications, anesthesiologist assistants need to obtain a master’s degree and proper certification. While nurse anesthetists perform similar functions, their education and training pathway is notably different.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for anesthesiologist assistants in 2019 was $112,260.
2. Athletic trainer
Whether they’re taping a sprained ankle or developing an injury prevention plan, these allied health professionals work to manage injuries and illnesses common among people who play competitive sports. Athletic trainers collaborate with other health care providers, but they’re often first on the scene when an athlete gets injured. To become an athletic trainer, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s degree as well as the appropriate certification.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for athletic trainers in 2019 was $48,440.
3. Audiologist
Diagnosing and treating hearing problems only scratch the surface of what audiologists do. They work with patients who have balance problems, fit people for cochlear implants and recommend strategies like lipreading for patients with extensive hearing loss. Audiologists must have a doctoral degree in audiology to obtain licensure.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for audiologists in 2019 was $77,600.
4. Cardiovascular technologist
Physicians need diagnostic tests to assess conditions that affect the heart and lungs, which is why cardiovascular technologists are so vital. These providers take a patient’s medical history, maintain and operate sophisticated imaging equipment, conduct tests like electrocardiograms (EKGs) and record results. You’ll likely need at least an associate’s degree to qualify for this role.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for cardiovascular technologists in 2019 was $57,720.
5. Cytotechnologist
Any time a blood or tissue sample is collected from a patient, it needs to be analyzed by professionals who can identify abnormalities that may lead to a diagnosis. Cytotechnologists play an important role in this process by preparing and viewing slides under a microscope, recording their findings and communicating relevant information to a pathologist for the final diagnosis. Most laboratory technologists are expected to have a bachelor’s degree, but requirements vary both by state and employer.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for cytotechnologists in 2019 was $53,120.
6. Diagnostic medical sonographer
You’re familiar with ultrasounds being used during prenatal care, but they’re also used to help guide needles during a biopsy and diagnose a variety of conditions that affect internal organs. Diagnostic medical sonographers prepare, maintain and operate the equipment during diagnostic tests. They’re also responsible for analyzing the information they collect and providing a summary for the physician.
You’ll need at least a postsecondary certificate to pursue this profession.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers in 2019 was $74,320.
7. Dental hygienist
Dental hygienists are experts in oral health. They clean teeth, take X-rays, apply sealants and more. They work closely with dentists and provide patient education. Most dental hygienists complete a three-year associate degree program prior to obtaining mandatory licensure.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for dental hygienists in 2019 was $76,220.
8. Dietitian
Being a dietitian is much more than delivering set meal plans to clients. It all starts with assessing a patient’s nutritional and health needs, and can include providing education on healthy eating habits, documenting progress and helping clients overcome barriers that may be preventing them from eating well. Many dieticians also promote better health by speaking to groups about diet and nutritional issues.
While certification requirements vary by location, a bachelor’s degree is typically preferred, and many employers prefer candidates with the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for dietitians in 2019 was $61,270.
9. Emergency medical technician
Often referred to as EMTs, emergency medical technicians respond to 911 calls to provide urgent medical care and ensure safe transport of patients via ambulance, or helicopter when needed. They must act quickly to assess a patient’s condition and immediately respond with the proper treatments, which could include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or administering intravenous fluids. While a postsecondary degree isn’t required to become an EMT, you will need to obtain a number of certifications.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for emergency medical technicians in 2019 was $35,400.
10. Lactation consultant
New mothers sometimes experience pain when nursing or find they’re not producing enough milk to support their growing baby.
Lactation consultants are specifically trained to help families work through these types of problems. These health educators are often employed at hospitals, clinics or birthing centers. Education requirements vary, but you may choose to obtain certification through the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE).
Earning potential: The median annual salary for health educators, the category the U.S. Department of Labor assigns to lactation consultants, in 2019 was $55,220.
11. Nuclear medicine technologist
These allied health professionals are usually the ones who work closest with patients during imaging procedures like positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Nuclear medicine technologists educate patients on what to expect, administer radiopharmaceutical injections, operate the medical equipment and maintain detailed records. You’ll need to obtain at least an associate degree to pursue this profession.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for nuclear medicine technologists in 2018 was $77,950.
12. Occupational therapist
Occupational therapists are allied health professionals who help individuals with disability or illness perform tasks and improve skills that are vital to their everyday lifestyle. They might, for example, instruct a patient with a permanent disability on how to use adaptive equipment like leg braces or wheelchairs. This role requires a minimum of a master’s degree and proper licensure while some therapists have a doctoral degree.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for occupational therapists in 2019 was $84,950.
13. Physician assistant
There’s some debate about whether physician assistants (PAs) are considered allied health professionals, but the career is definitely worth covering. These medical professionals conduct patient exams, order lab tests, make diagnoses, treat certain conditions, prescribe medications and collaborate with physicians and nurses as needed. They can also choose to work in a variety of specialties.
Physician assistants must complete a graduate-level PA program and obtain state licensure to practice.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for physician assistants in 2019 was $112,260.
14. Physical therapist
Whether due to injury, illness or something else, patients can find themselves facing functional problems that can cause pain or discomfort. Physical therapists (PTs) are highly trained medical experts who diagnose issues and develop plans to improve mobility and prevent future issues. Treatment can include stretching, specialized exercises, hands-on techniques and more. To become a physical therapist, you need to complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and obtain a license.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for physical therapists in 2019 was $89,440.
15. Speech-language pathologist
Speech-language pathologists work with individuals to treat or prevent speech, language and swallowing disorders.
While that might sound very specific, everything from hearing loss to Parkinson’s disease can lead to these types of issues. Speech-language pathologists conduct assessments and create individualized treatment plans based on the patient’s needs. To pursue this field, you’ll need at least a master’s degree and appropriate licensure.
Earning potential: The median annual salary for speech-language pathologists in 2019 was $79,120.
Start your ascent to an allied health career
One of the great things about health care is there are so many rewarding career options, and this list is hardly exhaustive. If you’re feeling certain that a career as an allied health professional is right for you, keep in mind that obtaining a bachelor’s degree is often a good idea. It’s certainly required for the highest-paying positions.
With that in mind, it might be time to think about obtaining the high-quality education those roles require. Berry College, for instance, provides professional networking opportunities with numerous providers and hands-on learning experiences.
To learn more about how you can build the foundation for a successful health care career, visit our Pre-Medical Studies and Allied Health Programs page.
The system of remuneration of doctors providing care to patients with COVID-19 is returning to the pre-pandemic format
The government is reformatting the system of payments to doctors providing care to patients with COVID-19. A decision was made to suspend the special social benefits introduced two years ago during an unprecedented explosion in the number of cases of a new, dangerous and unexplored infection. According to the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 1.3 million doctors received such payments in 2021. Now the payment system for working with covid patients is being reorganized to fit the pre-pandemic format: medical workers providing care to such patients will receive a 25% salary supplement, as in the treatment of patients with other infectious diseases. Thus, the government's decision has been brought into line with the presidential decree published today.
Domestic medicine, in fact, is returning to the pre-pandemic format of work. The epidemic situation in the country has stabilized, the number of active cases of COVID-19 in the country is decreasing. As a result, the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation in early July recommended that the regions restore the provision of planned medical care in full.
"During the two years of the coronavirus pandemic at the peak of the load, the system provided assistance to almost 1.5 million patients at the same time. More than 300 thousand beds were deployed in specialized hospitals, 77 new infection service facilities with a capacity of 11 thousand beds were created. Three federal information and advisory centers helped doctors in the regions to treat seriously ill patients at the initial stage in order to develop tactics to fight the infection, they took that serious big risk, - this is how the head of the Russian Ministry of Health Mikhail Murashko assessed the work in the most difficult months of the epidemic, speaking at the congress "National healthcare - 2022".
The minister stressed that the situation has now stabilized and the incidence of COVID-19 is at its lowest level since the pandemic. Moreover, the vast majority of patients today are treated on an outpatient basis, receiving the necessary medicines free of charge. And those patients who need inpatient treatment are now sent to infectious diseases hospitals and departments, which have enough beds.
The Ministry of Health notes that affordable and free vaccination has played a key role in making coronavirus infection much easier in most cases. In addition, COVID-19learned how to treat: in all regions, effective treatment regimens were introduced using the latest immunobiological drugs, and this reduced the proportion of severe cases.
Accordingly, the burden on the healthcare system has significantly decreased, and it became possible to return from the emergency model of organizing the work of medical institutions to their usual planned work.
At the same time, the next challenge, according to Murashko, is the restoration and increase in some areas of planned care, including work to restore the health of post-COVID patients.
The Government Decree applies to all healthcare workers who have direct contact with COVID-19 patients.
"Doctors, paramedical and junior medical personnel, as well as employees of medical organizations with higher non-medical education, providing specialized assistance in the diagnosis and treatment of a new coronavirus infection in a hospital, as well as district therapists and pediatricians, general practitioners, infectious disease specialists, paramedical staff, working with these doctors, feldshers of FAPs and feldsher stations providing primary health care to patients with COVID-19on an outpatient basis, will receive a surcharge of 25% of salary. At the same time, the implementation of a special social payment to medical and other workers providing medical care to patients with COVID-19 or in contact with them and one-time insurance payments to medical personnel and ambulance drivers directly working with patients who have confirmed or suspected COVID-19 for a new coronavirus infection is suspended," the document says.
Direct speech
Viktor Fomin, vice-rector for medical work at Sechenov University:
- According to information received from Rospotrebnadzor, the epidemiological situation with respect to the new coronavirus infection in our country is currently favorable. The healthcare system has restored the provision of planned medical care in the main profile of institutions. An effective Russian vaccine and necessary medicines, including the latest biological drugs, are available in all regions. This allowed us to move from an emergency to a more regular mode of operation. Covid and insurance payments, introduced at the peak of the first wave of the pandemic in 2020, were very important and helped us to cope safely with peak loads. Today, a reformatting is taking place: the suspension of emergency social and insurance payments and the transition to planned compensation payments for doctors working with patients with coronavirus, by analogy with other infectious diseases, looks like a justified decision.
Andrey Shkoda, chief physician of the Vorokhobov Moscow City Clinical Hospital No. 67:
- Our hospital was one of the first in Moscow to provide medical care to patients with coronavirus infection, we know firsthand what kind of virus it is, what features of its manifestation and treatment. With each new wave, we learned more about the disease and could make the treatment more effective. This is probably one of the most studied diseases in recent years. The virus has ceased to be unknown to us, we know how to deal with it. We were able to develop clear diagnostic and treatment algorithms, we know what consequences and complications the virus can lead to.
And now, after more than two years of struggle, at first it was hard to believe that our hospital was fully back to providing routine care. We are glad that the turning point that everyone has been waiting for so long has finally come, that you can finally return to normal life. At the same time, we regularly communicate with our colleagues who continue to work in the red zone.
They note that the situation is quite calm and cannot be compared with what it was before. The workload on doctors has decreased significantly. In addition, subvariants of the "omicron" strain are much easier, they are similar to the usual ARVI and in the vast majority of cases do not require any special treatment, symptomatic treatment is sufficient, as with classic ARVI.
The virus has become weaker, we managed to tame it, but this does not mean that it has completely disappeared, it remains, and therefore it is quite fair that specialists who will continue to treat patients with COVID-19 will receive a salary increase of 25 % of salary.
Taking on the Challenge: Medical College Graduates Response to COVID-19
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread around the world, people are looking for different ways to cope with fear and uncertainty, protect their loved ones and move forward, while frontline healthcare workers boldly risk their health and safety to help others .
The American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine, which is a member of UNAI Antigua and Barbuda, has many alumni working in the health sector. The university is committed to supporting underserved communities and tackling the looming physician shortage by focusing on primary health care and training the next generation of professionals to meet global health demands.
This pandemic has required AUA graduates to use all their skills to help slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. One of the University's alumni, Dr. Vamsi Nukala (Class of 2012), works in Primary Care Patient Care in America and explains how his practice has changed over the past few weeks. “We changed the way we treat patients, our staff and ourselves, and we had to explore a whole new way to treat patients even over the phone and video calls,” he explains.
Many other graduates work directly on the front lines in intensive care units and hospitals. Dr. Bilal Khan (Class of 2011), also from the USA, describes what it is like to work directly with patients who are struggling with this disease: “We are not talking about reinventing the wheel - we are actually reinventing the wheel, because we never dealt with a situation like this or a virus like this, so everything is new,” he says.
