Within the healthcare landscape, a multitude of diseases and conditions require specialized expertise for effective diagnosis, treatment, and care. As diverse as the ailments themselves, various types of medical professionals have emerged, each focusing on a specific aspect of health and well-being. From the human mind’s intricate workings to the musculoskeletal system’s complexities, medical professionals dedicate their careers to mastering particular domains, ensuring a comprehensive approach to healthcare. 

For aspiring students entering the healthcare field, understanding medical professionals’ distinctive roles is crucial to making an informed decision about their future careers. So, read on as we break down different types of doctors and what they do to help guide you toward the career path that best suits your goals and aspirations.

1. Physicians (Doctors)

Physicians or doctors are dedicated professionals who help ensure the overall well-being of individuals by addressing various medical conditions. Some of the most common specializations include:

General Practitioners (GPs)

GPs, also referred to as family or primary care physicians, are crucial in providing comprehensive healthcare to individuals and families. Their primary focus is preventive care, early detection of illnesses, and the management of various health conditions. 

According to recent data, their average annual pay is $240,493, with salaries ranging from $180,000 to $337,000. Furthermore, the field is expected to undergo a 3% growth rate from 2022 to 2032, resulting in the creation of 23,600 new job openings. 

Dermatologists

Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and treating skin, hair, and nail conditions. They address a diverse array  of dermatological issues, including acne, eczema, skin cancer, and cosmetic concerns, and may perform skin biopsies, laser treatments, and surgical excisions to address such conditions.

On average, dermatologists earn $251,393 annually, with salaries ranging from $189,000 to $352,000. Moreover, the job outlook for these professionals is promising, with a 3% growth expected from 2022 to 2032.

Pediatricians

Pediatricians are physicians with expertise in providing medical care for children from infancy through adolescence. They focus on children’s physical, emotional, and social well-being, providing preventive care, vaccinations, and treatment for common childhood illnesses.

Pediatricians earn an average annual salary of $256,306, with salaries ranging from $192,000 to $359,000. Despite a modest 1% growth in job outlook from 2022 to 2032, pediatricians play a vital role in ensuring the health and fostering the development of the younger population.

Neurologists

Neurologists are physicians specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders that may affect the nervous system – the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. They address conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases. 

The average annual pay for neurologists is $247,488, with salaries ranging from $186,000 to $343,000. The job outlook for neurologists is positive, with a 3% growth expected from 2022 to 2032. 

Oncologists

Oncologists specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer. They may work in various subspecialties, such as medical oncology, radiation oncology, or surgical oncology, collaborating to provide comprehensive cancer care.

The average annual pay for oncologists is $249,701, with salaries ranging from $187,000 to $350,000. The overall job outlook for physicians, including oncologists, is promising, with a 3% growth expected from 2022 to 2032.

Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYNs) focus on women’s reproductive health, providing care related to pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecological conditions. They perform routine screenings, manage pregnancies, and address issues such as infertility and hormonal disorders. 

OB/GYNs earn an average annual salary of $182,905, with salaries ranging from $137,000 to $256,000. While the job outlook for OB/GYNs shows only a 2% growth from 2022 to 2032, their role remains critical in women’s healthcare and maternal well-being.

2. Nurses

Nurses typically have less autonomy and decision-making authority compared to doctors. Nevertheless, they play a pivotal and indispensable role to the healthcare system and encompass specializations such as:

Registered Nurses (RNs)

Registered nurses are healthcare professionals responsible for providing patient care, collaborating with physicians, and administering medications. They are crucial in monitoring and assessing patients’ health status, coordinating healthcare plans, and educating individuals and their families about various health conditions.

With an estimated total pay of $99,642 per year, RNs enjoy a competitive salary, ranging from $82,000 to $122,000. The job outlook for these professionals, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), is 6% from 2022 to 2032. This growth is expected to result in the creation of 177,400 new jobs throughout the decade.

Nurse Practitioners (NPs)

NPs are advanced practice nurses who provide a wide range of healthcare services. They help diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and offer preventive care. These professionals often specialize in specific areas, such as family medicine, pediatrics, or geriatrics, and can work independently or collaboratively with physicians.

Nurse Practitioners earn an estimated total pay of $128,438 per year, with salaries ranging from $105,000 to $158,000. Notably, these professionals have one of the highest job outlooks among healthcare roles, with a remarkable 45% growth expected from 2022 to 2032. This surge in demand reflects the expanding role of NPs in providing accessible and comprehensive healthcare services.

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)

Licensed Practical Nurses are healthcare professionals tasked with providing fundamental nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians. Their duties often include measuring vital signs and administering medications. 

Despite a lower estimated total pay of $61,677 per year, with salaries ranging from $50,000 to $77,000, LPNs still offer valuable contributions to the healthcare system. The job outlook for these professionals is promising, with a projected 5% increase in employment from 2022 to 2032, indicating a sustained demand for their services in providing essential patient care.

Nurse Anesthetists

Nurse Anesthetists specialize in administering anesthesia. They work with surgical teams to ensure patients are safely and appropriately sedated during medical procedures.

Nurse Anesthetists command an estimated total pay of $242,089, with salaries ranging from $182,000 to $331,000. While their wages reflect their specialized role in administering anesthesia, the job outlook for nurse anesthetists remains favorable, with a 9% growth expected from 2022 to 2032.

3. Surgeons

Surgeons perform intricate and delicate procedures, often involving precise surgical techniques and critical decision-making. Depending on their specialization, surgeons can range from general surgeons to specialized practitioners such as orthopedic, neuro, or plastic surgeons, each focusing on specific areas of expertise within the field of surgery.

Surgeons

General Surgeons

General surgeons specialize in performing a wide array of surgical procedures on different parts of the body. They are trained to address both simple and complex surgical cases, often involving the abdomen, digestive system, skin, and soft tissues.

General surgeons earn an estimated total pay of $265,632, with salaries ranging from $199,000 to $372,000. The job outlook for these professionals is projected to increase by 3% throughout the decade.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

As dental specialists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons focus on the surgical treatment of conditions  that affect the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. Their expertise extends to procedures such as tooth extractions, jaw surgeries, facial reconstructions, and the treatment of oral cancers. 

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have an estimated total pay of $206,622, with salaries ranging from $155,000 to $289,000. Moreover, they have a positive job outlook of 5% for the decade.

Plastic Surgeons

Plastic Surgeons specialize in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery to enhance or restore the body’s appearance. Their scope may encompass procedures such as breast augmentation, facelifts, rhinoplasty, and reconstructive surgeries after trauma or illness.  Plastic surgeons aim to improve physical function and aesthetic appearance, addressing diverse patient needs.

Plastic surgeons earn an estimated total pay of $262,505, with salaries ranging from $197,000 to $368,000. The job outlook for these professionals aligns with the overall 3% growth for surgeons.

Trauma Surgeons

Trauma surgeons are highly specialized medical professionals who focus on providing acute care to patients with traumatic injuries, often resulting from accidents or emergencies. They operate in trauma centers and emergency departments, providing immediate surgical interventions to stabilize and treat life-threatening injuries.

Trauma surgeons, with an estimated total pay of $265,632 and salaries ranging from $199,000 to $372,000, share the same 3% job outlook as general surgeons.

Orthopedic Surgeons

Orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and surgically treating musculoskeletal conditions, including bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons. They perform surgeries such as joint replacements, spinal procedures, and fracture repairs. Orthopedic surgeons are instrumental in aiding patients regain mobility, alleviate pain, and enhance overall musculoskeletal function.

Orthopedic surgeons earn an estimated total pay of $281,350, with salaries ranging from $211,000 to $394,000. Despite a modest 2% job outlook, their expertise remains indispensable in addressing orthopedic issues.

4. Allied Health Professionals

Allied healthcare professionals are non-physician, non-nurse practitioners who work together with the healthcare team to deliver comprehensive patient care. They include, but are not limited to, the following roles:

Physician Assistants (PAs)

PAs work under the guidance and supervision of physicians, providing an extensive array of medical services. They conduct physical examinations, diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret tests, and assist in surgery.

Physician Assistants earn an estimated total pay of $141,774, with salaries ranging from $110,000 to $183,000. The job outlook for PAs is exceptionally robust, with a 27% growth expected from 2022 to 2032, leading to 12,200 annual job openings over the decade.

Pharmacists

Pharmacists specialize in ensuring the safe and effective use of medications. They dispense prescription medications, offer advice on over-the-counter drugs, and provide information on potential drug interactions.

Pharmacists earn an estimated total pay of $128,802, with salaries ranging from $111,000 to $149,000. Despite a modest 3% job outlook, pharmacists are vital in medication management and healthcare delivery.

5. Dentists

There are different types of oral health professionals, each with a specific focus on dental care. Some of them include: 

General Dentists

General Dentists are primary oral healthcare providers. They perform routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and preventive care, as well as address issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. 

General Dentists earn an estimated total pay of $182,555, with salaries ranging from $138,000 to $243,000. The job outlook for these professionals is promising, with a 4% growth expected from 2022 to 2032.

Orthodontists

Orthodontists are dental specialists who specialize in aligning and positioning teeth and jaws. They diagnose and treat conditions associated with bite irregularities, misaligned teeth, and jaw disorders.

Orthodontists command an estimated total pay of $204,495, with salaries ranging from $153,000 to $274,000. The job outlook for these professionals is also projected at 4%, aligning with the growth anticipated for general dentists.

6. Psychiatrists and Psychologists

Mental health professionals address emotional and behavioral issues in patients and play a crucial role in enhancing mental well-being.

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists diagnose and address mental health challenges using a combination of medication and therapy. They address conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia.

Psychiatrists earn an estimated pay of $255,812, with salaries ranging from $192,000 to $351,000. These mental health professionals have a strong job outlook, with a 7% growth expected.

Psychologists

Psychologists study and evaluate human behavior and emotions, providing psychotherapy to help individuals manage and overcome mental challenges. Unlike psychiatrists, psychologists do not prescribe medication.

Such professionals have an estimated total pay of $107,462, with salaries ranging from $82,000 to $141,000. The job outlook for psychologists is favorable, with a 6% growth expected.

7. Therapists

Therapists encompass a broad category of professionals dedicated to enhancing health and well-being, specializing in areas ranging from addressing mental health concerns to physical rehabilitation.

Physical Therapists

Physical Therapists (PTs) specialize in helping individuals regain mobility and manage pain through therapeutic exercises and treatments. They work with patients recuperating from injuries, surgeries, or conditions affecting movement.

Physical Therapists earn an estimated total pay of $90,474, with salaries ranging from $77,000 to $107,000. The job outlook for physical therapists is notably high, with a 15% growth expected from 2022 to 2032.

Occupational Therapists

These professionals work with individuals experiencing physical, cognitive, or developmental challenges. They focus on helping individuals develop or regain the skills needed for daily life activities.

These professionals have an estimated total pay of $96,700, with salaries ranging from $78,000 to $121,000. With a projected 12% increase in employment, their job outlook is  faster than the average growth rate for other specializations.

Speech-Language Pathologists

Speech-language pathologists operate to assess and treat speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders. They work with individuals of all ages, including those with developmental delays or neurological conditions.

Professionals in this role command an estimated overall pay of $99,442, with salaries ranging from $81,000 to $122,000. They also have a robust job outlook, with a 19% growth expected, resulting in about 13,200 openings each year.

8. Radiologists and Imaging Professionals

These medical professionals specialize in interpreting and utilizing medical images to assist in diagnosing and treating various conditions.

Radiologists

Radiologists are medical doctors specializing in interpreting medical images, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Thus, they help with diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.

Radiologists have an estimated total pay of $255,375, with salaries ranging from $192,000 to $358,000. The job outlook for radiologists is projected at 4%, reflecting steady demand for their expertise.

Radiologic Technologists

These professionals operate medical imaging equipment, capturing diagnostic images as directed by physicians. They work closely with radiologists to ensure the production of accurate and high-quality images.

Radiologic Technologists earn an estimated total pay of $89,729, with salaries ranging from $72,000 to $112,000. With a 5% job outlook, these professionals remain integral in operating medical imaging equipment and contributing to diagnostic processes in healthcare.

9. Laboratory Professionals

Laboratory professionals are integral members of the healthcare team who provide essential diagnostic information by analyzing and interpreting clinical specimens. This diverse group includes:

Medical Laboratory Technologists

Working in laboratories, these professionals perform blood, tissue, and other bodily fluids tests. They also play a key role in diagnosing and monitoring medical conditions.

Medical Laboratory Technologists command an estimated total pay of $77,327, with salaries ranging from $63,000 to $96,000. Their job outlook is strong, with a 5% growth expected, resulting in approximately 24,000 annual job openings throughout the decade.

Pathologists

Pathologists are medical doctors who specialize in studying diseases. They analyze tissue samples, conduct autopsies, and provide crucial information for diagnosing and treating illnesses.

Pathologists earn an estimated total pay of $235,906, with salaries ranging from $177,000 to $330,000. The job outlook for pathologists is positive, with a 5% growth expected, emphasizing their critical role in disease diagnosis.

10. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Professionals

Lastly, there are particular professionals who deal with sudden, critical situations that require immediate and often life-saving interventions. Such roles include:

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)

EMTs deliver immediate medical assistance in emergency situations. They assess patients for injuries, administer basic life support, and after ensuring their stability, they transport individuals to medical facilities for further care.

These professionals earn an estimated total pay of $54,341, with salaries ranging from $43,000 to $68,000. With a 5% job outlook, EMTs play an essential role in providing immediate emergency medical care.

Paramedics

Paramedics have advanced training beyond EMTs and have the ability to administer more complex medical interventions. They play a vital role in emergency medical services, providing advanced life support in critical situations.

Paramedics command an estimated total pay of $57,723, with salaries ranging from $45,000 to $75,000. Their job outlook is also 5%, reflecting the ongoing demand for advanced life support services during emergencies.

Key Takeaways

Medical professionals, ranging from doctors to emergency responders and healthcare teams dealing with critical situations, all play a vital role in the healthcare field. To navigate and contribute effectively to this field, it is essential to understand the diversity and specific focus of each role.

Many of the professions mentioned in this article require a strong foundation in medical education, which is commonly achieved through attending medical school. So, if you’re looking to prepare for a wide range of specialties and fulfill your healthcare ambitions, apply to our medical school.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many types of healthcare professionals are there?

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), there are over 250 healthcare professions.

What is the most common type of doctor?

Among the most common types of doctors are those in more general roles, such as general practitioners or family medicine physicians. These healthcare professionals provide primary care services, addressing a wide range of medical issues for individuals and families.