Career Topics for Session 5
Pharmacist - Steve Finch, RPH & Carleigh Krueger, RPH
A pharmacist is a healthcare professional who specializes in medication management and patient care. They dispense prescription medications, provide counseling on proper medication use, and monitor for potential side effects or drug interactions. Pharmacists often work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, or clinics, and may also offer health screenings, vaccinations, and wellness advice. They play a crucial role in ensuring patient safety and optimizing medication therapy. If you're considering this career, you'll typically need a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree and a state license. It's a rewarding field that requires strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a passion for helping patients manage their health.
Speech & Occupational Therapy - Jessica Billinger, CCC-SLP, Kim Prosser, CCC-SLP, Vicki Tebo, OT, & Garrett Deharsh, CCC-SLP
A speech-language pathologist (SLP), or speech therapist, is a healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats communication and swallowing disorders. They work with patients of all ages, from children with developmental delays to adults recovering from stroke or injury. SLPs help improve speech, language, and cognitive skills, and may also address issues like stuttering, voice disorders, or feeding difficulties. They often work in schools, hospitals, clinics, or private practices, and collaborate with families, educators, and other healthcare professionals.
An occupational therapist (OT) is a healthcare professional who helps patients develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and work. They work with individuals who have physical, cognitive, or mental health challenges, using activities and strategies to improve independence and quality of life. OTs can help patients with disabilities, injuries, or chronic conditions learn to adapt, use assistive devices, or modify their environments. They often work in hospitals, schools, clinics, or community settings, and collaborate with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
Radiologic Technologist (X-Ray, CT/MRI, & Ultrasound Techs) - Anna Anderson, RT, RDMS, RVT
A radiologic technologist is a healthcare professional who operates imaging equipment to create diagnostic images of the human body. They might work with X-rays, CT scans, MRI machines, or other technologies to produce high-quality images that help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Imaging technologists often work in hospitals, clinics, or imaging centers, and must have strong technical skills, attention to detail, and excellent patient care. If you're considering this career, you'll typically need an associate's degree or certificate in radiologic technology and a state license or certification. It's a dynamic field that requires precision, communication skills, and a passion for working behind the scenes to help patients receive accurate diagnoses.
Gastroenterology - Dr. Luke Johnson
A gastroenterologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. They manage conditions like acid reflux, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and liver disease, often using procedures like endoscopies and colonoscopies. Gastroenterologists work in hospitals, clinics, or private practices, and provide care to patients of all ages. If you're considering this career, you'll need to complete medical school and a gastroenterology fellowship program - it's a specialized field that requires strong knowledge of digestive health, procedural skills, and the ability to manage complex, often chronic conditions.