Top Medical Field Jobs and Why Medical Assisting Is a Great Start

Top Medical Field Jobs and Why Medical Assisting Is a Great Start

The healthcare field is one of the most rewarding and reliable career paths, offering a wide range of job opportunities for individuals at every education and experience level. Whether you’re just entering the workforce or looking for a meaningful career change, the medical field provides roles that make a difference in people’s lives while offering stability, growth, and purpose. And with an aging population and continuous medical innovation, the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow across nearly every healthcare occupation.

If you’re interested in healthcare but aren’t sure where to start, becoming a medical assistant offers a smart entry point. It gives you hands-on experience, valuable clinical and administrative skills, and exposure to multiple healthcare specialties. In this article, we’ll look at eight top medical field jobs—and explain why medical assisting is one of the best places to begin your healthcare journey.

1. Registered Nurse (RN)

Registered nurses (RNs) are a cornerstone of patient care. They perform a wide variety of tasks including administering medications, coordinating treatment plans, and educating patients and families about managing illnesses. RNs work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and even patients’ homes, making it a versatile and impactful role in healthcare.

Medical assisting is an excellent steppingstone to becoming a registered nurse. Many medical assistants go on to pursue nursing degrees after gaining experience in patient care. The foundational clinical and communication skills learned in a medical assistant program prepare students for the rigors of nursing school and the realities of patient interaction.

1. Physician Assistant (PA)

Physician assistants (PAs) are advanced healthcare providers who diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, and may even assist in surgery. Working under the supervision of a physician, they often act as a primary point of care in clinics and hospitals. PAs require a master’s degree and licensure, but the career comes with high pay, autonomy, and job satisfaction.

Starting out as a medical assistant can help aspiring PAs gain crucial clinical experience and observe medical professionals in action. The role also helps build patient communication and charting skills, both of which are critical in PA programs. Many PA schools even look favorably on prior medical assisting experience as part of their admissions criteria.

1. Medical Laboratory Technician

Medical lab technicians play a behind-the-scenes yet vital role in patient care by analyzing bodily fluids and tissue samples to help diagnose illnesses. They work in hospitals, research labs, and diagnostic facilities. The role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and an associate degree in laboratory science.

Medical assistants are often responsible for collecting specimens, preparing samples, and sometimes performing basic lab tests in clinics. This experience translates well to a lab technician’s duties and offers a clearer understanding of how diagnostic data informs treatment. If you’re detail-oriented and like science, this could be a natural next step from medical assisting.

1. Radiologic Technologist

Radiologic technologists, also known as radiographers, specialize in performing diagnostic imaging exams such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. They play a crucial role in detecting injuries and diseases through imaging technology. To become one, you’ll need an associate degree and certification, but the career path is rewarding and in high demand.

Medical assistants often assist with preparing patients for imaging procedures and may work closely with radiologic teams. These early experiences with diagnostic equipment and patient prep can spark interest in the radiology field. Medical assisting helps you build a strong foundation in anatomy, positioning, and patient communication—all essential for radiologic technologists.

1. Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists assist in operating rooms by preparing surgical equipment, sterilizing instruments, and supporting surgeons during procedures. They ensure that surgeries run smoothly and safely. This role requires a specialized postsecondary certificate or associate degree and is ideal for individuals who thrive under pressure.

A background in medical assisting can ease the transition into surgical technology. Many medical assistants get the chance to observe minor surgical procedures, manage instrument sterilization, and prepare treatment rooms. These foundational experiences help develop a steady hand, knowledge of sterile techniques, and an understanding of surgical workflows.

1. Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)

Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists to help patients recover mobility and manage pain after injuries or surgeries. They assist with exercises, monitor progress, and offer encouragement throughout the rehab process. The position requires an associate degree and state licensure.

Medical assistants often support rehabilitation teams in outpatient settings by scheduling appointments, taking health histories, and observing therapy sessions. This exposure provides insight into how physical therapy fits into the broader healthcare system. For those who enjoy patient interaction and helping others regain independence, PTA is a meaningful next step from medical assisting.

1. Healthcare Administrator

Healthcare administrators oversee the business and operational aspects of medical facilities. They manage staff, budgets, regulatory compliance, and patient services in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems. This non-clinical role typically requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in health administration.

Medical assistants gain firsthand experience with healthcare systems, electronic health records, billing, and front-office management—making it easier to transition into administrative leadership roles. The dual exposure to clinical and clerical responsibilities in medical assisting offers valuable insights for future healthcare administrators who want to improve operations and patient experience.

1. Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)

Occupational therapy assistants help patients develop or recover skills needed for daily living and working. Under the supervision of occupational therapists, they guide patients through exercises and use therapeutic equipment to support rehabilitation. OTAs typically hold an associate degree and must pass a certification exam.

Medical assistants working in therapy or rehab clinics often assist patients during intake, take medical histories, and help prepare therapy materials. These responsibilities expose them to occupational therapy environments and patient needs, offering a practical preview of what it’s like to work as an OTA. The interpersonal and observation skills honed as a medical assistant serve as a strong foundation for this hands-on career.

Why Medical Assisting Is a Great Start in the Medical Field

Medical assisting is a fast-track entry point into the healthcare world that blends clinical and administrative responsibilities. In just a few months of training, you can be working directly with patients, doctors, and healthcare systems. This hands-on exposure gives you a well-rounded understanding of how the medical field works, which can help you discover your long-term interests.

It’s also one of the few roles in healthcare that allows you to explore different specialties—like pediatrics, cardiology, or dermatology—without a long-term commitment to one path. Whether you’re using it as a career in itself or a steppingstone to another healthcare role, medical assisting provides flexible, real-world experience and skills that are transferable across the entire medical field.

Get Started with Pulse Medical Assistant School

If you’re ready to begin your journey in healthcare, medical assisting is an excellent place to start—and Pulse Medical Assistant School is here to help you succeed. Our online-first, 16-week medical assistant program includes intensive, in-person labs that give you the real-world experience and confidence you need to support patients and healthcare teams alike. Whether your goal is to remain a medical assistant or to use it as a launchpad for future roles in nursing, imaging, administration, or therapy, Pulse prepares you with the right mix of skills, support, and clinical knowledge. Take the first step today and become the healthcare professional you’re meant to be.