2026 Highest Paid Non-Physician Jobs in Healthcare

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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List Of Highest-Paying Non-Physician Jobs In Healthcare

Healthcare careers go well beyond becoming a physician, with many roles offering impressive salaries and strong career growth.

This list showcases some of the non-physician jobs in healthcare. Please note that the occupations listed below are not ranked in order of highest to lowest.

1. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)

CRNAs deliver anesthesia care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, obstetrical, and emergency procedures. They evaluate patient health, develop anesthesia plans, administer anesthesia, and monitor patient vital signs. They manage airway safety, respond to emergencies, and work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical teams. CRNAs often practice in operating rooms, intensive care units, and trauma facilities. 

• Average Annual Salary: $190,500–$348,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Must be a registered nurse (RN), typically in critical care, complete a Master’s or Doctorate in Nurse Anesthesia (with doctorate becoming required by 2025), pass the national certification exam (NBCRNA CPC), and maintain licensure 

2. Physician Assistant (PA)

PAs provide a full spectrum of medical care, including diagnosing illnesses, developing treatment plans, prescribing medications, and assisting in surgery under a supervising physician. They work across numerous specialties such as emergency medicine, surgery, orthopedics, and dermatology. PAs perform physical exams, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and manage patient care both independently and collaboratively.

• Average Annual Salary: $125,000–$175,000, depending on specialty

• Education/Certification Requirements: Completion of an accredited PA program (typically Master’s level), passing the PANCE exam, and obtaining state licensure.

3. Pharmacist

Pharmacists dispense prescription and over-the-counter medications, verify proper dosages, and counsel patients on safe medication use. They monitor for potentially harmful drug interactions, advise healthcare providers, and may administer vaccinations. Pharmacists oversee pharmacy operations, including inventory and regulatory compliance.

• Average Salary: $136,000 
• Education/Certification Requirements: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, completion of clinical internships, passing the NAPLEX and state licensure exams 

4. Chief Nursing Officer (CNO)

The CNO is the highest-level nurse executive responsible for nursing strategy, policy, and patient safety across healthcare institutions. They oversee staffing levels, nursing budgets, quality assurance programs, and compliance initiatives. CNOs mentor nursing leaders and facilitate communication between clinical and administrative departments. 

• Average Annual Salary: $147,500
• Education/Certification Requirements: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), RN licensure, plus significant clinical and leadership experience. Most hold a Master’s in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

5. Optometrist

Optometrists perform eye exams to assess vision and eye health, prescribe and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses, and diagnose eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts. They may treat common eye diseases, manage ocular emergencies, and refer patients to specialists when needed.

• Average Annual Salary: $124,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and state licensure

6. Nurse Practitioner (NP)

NPs deliver comprehensive primary and specialized care, including diagnosing conditions, prescribing medications, and managing treatment plans. They perform physical exams, interpret tests, and coordinate patient care across settings. In many states, NPs practice independently, especially in underserved areas. They often focus on specialties like family practice, pediatrics, or geriatrics. NPs also emphasize health promotion and patient education in their role.

Because NPs can specialize in different patient populations, many nurses explore how scope of practice varies by credential. For example, can an acute care NP work in primary care is a common question, as acute care training is designed for complex and unstable conditions, while primary care focuses on long-term, preventive health. Scope ultimately depends on state regulations, certification standards, and employer policy, making it important for prospective NPs to choose a specialization aligned with their intended practice setting.

• Average Annual Salary: $126,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Master’s (MSN) or Doctorate (DNP) in Nursing, RN licensure, national certification in chosen specialty, and state licensure

7. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP)

NNPs care for critically ill or premature newborns in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). They perform detailed assessments, interpret test results, and design treatment interventions. NNPs stabilize infants, manage respiratory support, and oversee feeding and growth plans. 

• Average Annual Salary:$109,000–$150,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: BSN with RN licensure, several years of NICU experience, followed by an accredited Master’s or DNP program in neonatology, passing NNP certification, and state licensure.

8. Medical Dosimetrist

Medical dosimetrists design radiation treatment plans to deliver precise tumor-targeted therapy while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. They calculate dose distributions, collaborate with radiation oncologists, and ensure equipment calibration. Dosimetrists work with medical physicists and radiation therapists to optimize treatment efficacy. 

• Average Annual Salary: $133,000–$138,000 
• Education/Certification Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in dosimetry, medical physics, or radiation therapy; completion of a dosimetry program; Certified Medical Dosimetrist (CMD) credential

9. Cardiovascular Perfusionist

Perfusionists operate heart-lung bypass machines during open-heart and other cardiac surgeries. They manage extracorporeal circulation, ensuring oxygen delivery and temperature control while monitoring patient vital signs. They collaborate closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other OR staff. 

• Average Annual Salary: $144,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Completion of an accredited perfusion training program (typically post-bachelor’s), clinical internship, and certification by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP)

10. Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapists administer prescribed radiation treatments to cancer patients using high-energy beams. They prepare equipment, position patients, monitor sessions, and ensure safety protocols are followed. They collaborate with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and dosimetrists to deliver accurate treatment. They also educate patients about procedures and side effect management. 

• Average Annual Salary: $94,000 
• Education/Certification Requirements: Completion of an accredited radiation therapy program

11. Biomedical Engineer

Biomedical engineers design and develop medical equipment, devices, and software that improve patient care and healthcare delivery. They collaborate with clinicians to solve medical and technical problems, such as creating prosthetics, imaging machines, or artificial organs. Their work combines engineering principles with biological sciences to advance medical innovation and safety.

• Average Annual Salary: $94,807
• Education/Certification Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering or a related engineering field; some positions may require a master’s degree or professional certification such as PE (Professional Engineer) licensure.

12. Genetic Counselor

Genetic counselors assess family and medical histories to evaluate the risk of inherited conditions. They educate patients about genetic disorders and testing options. They interpret genetic test results and explain their implications for family planning, disease prevention, and treatment strategies. 

• Average Annual Salary: $98,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Master’s degree in Genetic Counseling and certification from the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC).

13. Medical and Health Services Manager

These managers oversee healthcare facilities, departments, or systems, ensuring efficiency and compliance. They manage staff, budgets, and operations while implementing policies to improve patient care quality. They also coordinate with physicians, nurses, and regulators to align services with healthcare laws. Data analysis and informatics often play a role in their daily work. 

• Average Annual Salary: $95,625
• Education/Certification Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration (minimum), though many hold a Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) or MBA.

14. Dental Hygienist (Advanced/Experienced)

Dental hygienists clean teeth, examine patients for oral diseases, and educate them on preventive dental care. In some states, advanced hygienists may administer anesthesia or perform expanded procedures. They work closely with dentists to support comprehensive patient care. 

• Average Annual Salary: $90,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene, passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, and state licensure.

15. Occupational Therapist (OT)

Occupational therapists help patients recover or develop the skills needed for daily living and work. They design customized therapy plans for individuals with physical, developmental, or cognitive challenges. They may teach patients how to adapt to using assistive devices or modify environments for accessibility. 

• Average Annual Salary: $107,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy (MOT) or Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), plus passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam and state licensure.

16. Physical Therapist (PT)

Physical therapists treat patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions that affect movement. They evaluate physical function, develop rehabilitation plans, and teach exercises to restore mobility and reduce pain. PTs use hands-on therapy, equipment, and technology to assist recovery. 

• Average Annual Salary: $101,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, national licensure exam (NPTE), and state licensure.

17. Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

SLPs assess, diagnose, and treat speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders. They work with patients across the lifespan, from children with developmental delays to older adults recovering from strokes. They develop therapy plans and use specialized techniques to improve communication and swallowing function. 

• Average Annual Salary: $83,000– $121,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology, passing the Praxis exam, and state licensure.

18. Healthcare Informatics Specialist

Informatics specialists manage healthcare data systems, ensuring accurate electronic health records (EHRs). They analyze patient data to improve care quality, safety, and efficiency. They also train staff in using healthcare software and troubleshoot issues. Their role bridges technology and medicine, helping hospitals adapt to digital systems. Demand has grown with the rise of telehealth and big data in healthcare.

• Average Annual Salary: $110,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Health Informatics, IT, or related fields. Certifications like CAHIMS or CPHIMS are valued.

19. Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)

CNSs are advanced practice nurses who specialize in areas like cardiology, oncology, or pediatrics. They provide direct patient care, consult with nursing teams, and improve healthcare systems through evidence-based practice. They educate nurses, lead quality improvement initiatives, and may influence policy. CNSs combine clinical expertise with leadership skills. Their work improves patient outcomes and staff training.

• Average Annual Salary: $115,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Master’s or Doctorate in Nursing, RN licensure, and certification in their specialty area.

20. Respiratory Therapist

Respiratory therapists care for patients with breathing disorders such as asthma, COPD, or COVID-19 complications. They perform diagnostic tests, administer treatments, and manage ventilators in critical care. They educate patients on lung health and proper equipment use. RTs play a vital role in emergency situations and ICUs. They often work alongside pulmonologists and critical care teams.

• Average Annual Salary: $80,000–$90,000
• Education/Certification Requirements: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Respiratory Therapy, passing the NBRC exams (CRT, RRT), and state licensure.

How does the salary of physicians differ from that of Non-Physician healthcare jobs?

Physicians and surgeons earn substantially more than non-physician healthcare professionals because of their extended education, specialized expertise, and clinical responsibilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for physicians and surgeons was $239,200 or more in 2024, placing them among the highest-paid professionals in healthcare. 

In contrast, even high-earning non-physician practitioners like nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) made a median wage of $223,210, nurse practitioners (NPs) earned $129,210, and nurse midwives (CNMs) earned $128,790 during the same period (BLS, 2024).

Non-physician professionals can also increase their earnings by pursuing subspecialties, taking on leadership roles, or working in high-demand geographic areas. For those who wish to transition further, some may choose to attend medical school and become physicians themselves, opening the door to even higher salaries and broader clinical authority.

However, not all career paths in healthcare require advanced clinical training to begin earning. Many individuals start their careers in healthcare administration jobs no experience required, particularly in entry-level roles such as patient services coordinator, medical office assistant, or scheduling coordinator. These roles provide exposure to the healthcare system, offer opportunities for advancement, and can serve as stepping stones toward higher-paying administrative or clinical careers over time.

Do salaries of non-physician jobs in healthcare differ across work settings?

The salaries of non-physician healthcare jobs differ across healthcare settings because compensation is influenced by the type of facility and the nature of patient care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wages for nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners varied notably depending on the industry. 

Those working in hospitals (state, local, and private) earned the highest median wage at $137,790, closely followed by those in outpatient care centers at $137,640. Professionals employed in educational services earned a lower median wage of $132,070, while those working in physicians’ offices earned $129,820. 

For other non-physician jobs, such as physical therapists, the setting also makes a difference in pay.

The table below shows that the median annual wage was $108,110 in home healthcare services, compared with $105,330 in nursing and residential care facilities and $105,140 in hospitals. This shows that hospitals are not always the highest-paying healthcare setting, as salaries can depend on the nature of work, patient demand, and the resources of the facility.

Many students and practicing nurses also wonder can FNP work in hospital roles. In many states and healthcare systems, the answer is yes—Family Nurse Practitioners can and do work in hospital settings, particularly in acute, inpatient, and specialty care units. However, specific hospital privileges and role scopes often depend on state regulations, employer policies, and board certification requirements.

Do you need a master’s or doctorate for most non-physician jobs in healthcare?

Some of the non-physician jobs in healthcare require postgraduate education, while others can be entered with only an associate's or bachelor’s degree. Below are examples of roles in each category.

Non-Physician Jobs in Healthcare That Require a Master’s or Doctorate

• Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). A CRNA must earn a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) because of the complexity and risks of anesthesia care. Alternatively, they can complete the fastest DNP program to qualify for advanced practice in anesthesia.

• Nurse Practitioner (NP). An NP typically completes a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and may pursue a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) for advanced specialization.
• Nurse Midwife (CNM). A CNM must obtain a master’s degree in nurse-midwifery and pass the national certification to provide care for women before, during, and after childbirth.
• Physical Therapist (PT). A PT is required to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which prepares them to assess and rehabilitate patients with mobility issues.

Non-Physician Jobs in Healthcare That Do Not Require a Master’s or Doctorate

• Radiologic Technologist. This role typically requires only an associate degree in radiologic technology, with licensure depending on state requirements.

• Registered Nurse (RN). While an ASN is enough, many RNs complete the easiest online RN to BSN programs to increase income and pursue leadership roles.

• Respiratory Therapist. This career requires either an associate's or a bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy, along with certification to treat patients with breathing disorders.
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. A diagnostic sonographer uses ultrasound imaging to examine internal organs, tissues, and pregnancies. Training typically involves an associate's or bachelor’s degree in sonography.

What are the highest-paying nursing jobs?

Some nursing careers stand out for their exceptional salaries due to advanced training, specialization, and the critical care they provide. Still, salary figures are averages and estimates. Actual pay for these nursing roles can vary greatly depending on location, years of experience, healthcare setting, and employer. According to ZipRecruiter (2025), here are some of the top-paying nursing roles:

• Emergency Medicine Nurse Practitioner. These NPs provide urgent care for patients with life-threatening conditions and injuries. Salaries can reach up to $400,000 per year, reflecting the high-stakes environment of emergency medicine.
• Gastroenterology Nurse Practitioner. Specializing in digestive health, these nurses assist in diagnosing and managing conditions such as ulcers, IBS, and liver disease. They can earn up to $400,000 annually, especially in specialized clinics.
• Pain Management Nurse. These nurses focus on treating patients with chronic and acute pain, often working in surgical centers or pain clinics. Their salaries range between $345,500 and $400,000 per year, due to their specialized skills and growing demand.
• Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). CRNAs administer anesthesia during surgical procedures and monitor patient safety. Their annual earnings typically range from $190,500 to $348,000, making them consistently one of the top earners in nursing.
• Surgical Nurse Practitioner. These professionals assist surgeons in operations and manage patient care before and after procedures. They earn between $97,000 and $338,000 annually, depending on their setting and specialty.
• Ophthalmic Nurse. Specializing in eye care, ophthalmic nurses support ophthalmologists in procedures and patient treatment. Their salaries range from $274,500 to $323,500 per year, reflecting their niche expertise.

State of the World’s Nursing (2025) projects a global shortage of 11 million nurses by 2030, meaning demand for skilled nurses may continue to rise, potentially influencing salaries and job opportunities worldwide. This creates a strong incentive for individuals to enter or advance within the nursing profession, as their skills will be urgently needed across all regions.

Moreover, the roles listed above show how specialization increases earning potential. Some nurses choose to transition into new advanced practice areas to expand career versatility. For example, nurses exploring a FNP to Pediatric NP pathway may pursue additional pediatric-focused coursework and certification, allowing them to work more directly with children and adolescents while potentially accessing higher-paying roles in pediatric hospitals or specialty clinics.

What are the highest-paying administrative or non-clinical jobs in healthcare?

Not all high-paying healthcare careers involve direct patient care. Many administrative and non-clinical roles offer strong salaries because they require leadership, financial expertise, or specialized management skills that keep healthcare systems running effectively. Here are some of the top-paying examples based on ZipRecruiter (2025):

• Healthcare Executives (Hospital CEOs and COOs). These leaders earn a median salary of $93,552 per year. They oversee entire healthcare organizations, from staffing and budgets to strategic planning and patient outcomes.
• Healthcare Administrators (Hospital or Practice Administrators). Administrators get an annual salary of $109,274. They manage daily operations, including budgeting, compliance, and staff coordination.
• Health Information Managers. These professionals earn a median annual salary of $80,888. They supervise the collection, storage, and security of medical records and health data. 
• Medical and Health Services Managers. These managers get $95,625 per year on average. Their responsibilities include running specific departments such as nursing, finance, or outpatient care, balancing staff needs with regulatory requirements.
• Pharmaceutical Project Managers. Working in the pharmaceutical sector, these managers can earn $105,026 on average annually. They conduct research, clinical trials, and product launches. Their high salaries come from the intersection of healthcare, business, and science.
• Healthcare Consultants. Consultants analyze operations, streamline efficiency, and advise organizations on cost-saving strategies. Their compensation annually ranges from $48,000 to $142,000. 
• Human Resources Directors in Healthcare Systems. HR leaders handle recruitment, training, benefits, and labor relations in hospitals and healthcare organizations. Their median pay of $127,543 per year reflects the challenge of managing large, specialized workforces.

What are the highest-paying allied health jobs?

Allied health professionals play a vital role in diagnosis, rehabilitation, and therapeutic services, often requiring advanced training and specialized expertise. Many of these roles offer strong salaries because they directly support patient recovery and quality of life. Here are some of the top-paying allied health careers:

• Physician Assistant (PA). PAs diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications under a physician’s supervision. Their salaries are among the highest in allied health, ranging from $91,100 to $134,500.
• Physical Therapist (PT). PTs help patients restore movement and manage pain after injuries or surgeries. Their salaries generally range from $70,000 to $125,000 annually, depending on experience and specialty.
• Occupational Therapist (OT). OTs assist patients in regaining independence in daily activities and adapting to physical or cognitive limitations. Their average yearly earnings are about $107,000.
• Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). SLPs diagnose and treat communication and swallowing disorders. Depending on the healthcare setting, they typically earn between $83,000 and $121,000 per year, with some roles reaching up to $130,000.
• Audiologist. These specialists assess and treat hearing and balance disorders, often working with advanced diagnostic equipment. They are consistently among the higher-paid allied health professionals, with salaries that frequently exceed $100,000 annually.

Allied health professionals are increasingly in demand due to their critical role in patient care and rehabilitation. The table below shows the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis (NCHWA) projection about the shortages by 2037, including 36,820 dispensing opticians, 6,480 respiratory therapists, 9,140 physical therapists, 17,030 pharmacists, 4,430 podiatrists, and 8,190 chiropractors.

What are the highest-paying healthcare technologists and technicians?

Healthcare technologists and technicians focus on operating diagnostic equipment, performing specialized procedures, and assisting in clinical testing. While they typically require less education than allied health professionals, many still earn competitive salaries due to their technical expertise. Here are some of the highest-paying roles:

• Nuclear Medicine Technologist. These professionals prepare and administer radioactive drugs for imaging and therapeutic purposes. The national average salary is $107,964 per year, with the top 10% earning up to about $160,500.
• Radiologic Technologist. Radiologic technologists perform imaging exams such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. Their pay is about $95,196 per year.
• Diagnostic Medical Sonographer. Sonographers use ultrasound equipment to capture images of internal organs, tissues, and pregnancies. Their earnings are typically $84,301 per year.
• Cardiovascular Technologist. These specialists conduct tests such as electrocardiograms (EKGs) and assist in heart-related procedures. Their salaries ($125,564/year) are tied to their expertise in managing life-critical cardiac functions.

Which non-physician jobs in healthcare require licensing or certification?

Many non-physician jobs in healthcare require licensing or certification to demonstrate competency and ensure patient safety. The requirements vary by profession, but most involve passing standardized exams and meeting state-specific regulations.

• Registered Nurses (RNs). After completing a two- or four-year nursing program, an aspiring registered nurse must pass the NCLEX-RN exam and obtain state licensure to provide patient care in hospitals or clinics. 
• Nurse Practitioners (NPs). An aspiring nurse practitioner must first become a licensed RN, then complete a master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. Those who have completed 1 year FNP programs should take the national board certification for Family Nurse Practitioner certification exam or their specialty area.
• Physician Assistants (PAs). After a master ’s-level PA program, an aspiring physician assistant must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE). Once licensed by the state, PAs can perform exams, prescribe medications, and assist in surgeries under physician supervision.
• Pharmacists. Aspiring pharmacists must complete fast track online pharmacy doctorate programs or a 4-year Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree, typically taking four years after undergraduate studies. They must also pass the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX) and meet state-specific requirements before dispensing medications.
• Physical Therapists. Following a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, which usually takes three years, an aspiring physical therapist must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE). This credential allows them to evaluate, diagnose, and treat mobility issues in patients recovering from injury
• Radiologic Technologists. An aspiring radiologic technologist generally completes a two-year associate degree before becoming eligible for certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Certification and state licensure are necessary for operating X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs in most facilities.
• Respiratory Therapists. After earning an associate or bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy, an aspiring respiratory therapist must pass either the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exams. Licensure enables them to provide life-saving respiratory treatments, especially in intensive care units.

Licensing and certification are essential in non-physician jobs in healthcare because they maintain professional standards and protect patients. However, requirements differ from state to state, which makes license reciprocity especially important. 

Reciprocity agreements, such as the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allow qualified professionals to practice across state lines without repeating the entire licensing process, improving flexibility and helping meet workforce shortages nationwide.

How can continuing education boost career growth in non-physician healthcare roles?

Advanced training and targeted certifications can significantly enhance professional competence and career trajectory. Many non-physician healthcare professionals are increasingly turning to specialized courses and programs to keep pace with technological innovations and evolving clinical standards. For instance, enrolling in programs that offer an affordable medical billing and coding certification can open doors to higher-level administrative roles and interdisciplinary positions that blend clinical and operational skills. Additionally, tailored workshops and online degree programs help professionals refine patient management techniques and adapt to emerging trends, positioning them for leadership in their respective domains.

Are non-physician healthcare jobs as challenging as physician roles?

Non-physician jobs in healthcare can be just as stressful as physician roles, though the pressures come from different sources. Physicians often shoulder the ultimate responsibility for life-or-death decisions, but non-physician professionals face high workloads, long shifts, and emotionally demanding patient interactions. 

For example, nurses and advanced practice providers may manage dozens of patients at once, often with limited staffing support. Allied health workers, such as physical therapists or respiratory therapists, experience pressure to achieve measurable patient outcomes while also navigating administrative requirements. Even healthcare technologists must maintain accuracy under strict safety protocols, knowing that small errors could affect patient diagnoses or treatments.

These daily demands take a toll. A survey found that people working in healthcare had one of the highest rates of burnout in the United States, at 49% (Statista, 2025). Another study reported that 58% of registered nurses felt burned out on most days, highlighting the intense emotional and physical strain on non-physician providers (Statista, 2025).

While the type of challenges may differ from those of physicians, non-physician healthcare workers still contend with high stress levels, heavy responsibilities, and the constant pressure of patient care. Ultimately, the healthcare industry as a whole is one of the most stressful industries to work in, affecting professionals across all roles.

What tips can help someone enter a high-paying non-physician career?

Breaking into a high-paying non-physician career requires careful planning, education, and strategic career choices. Aspiring healthcare professionals can improve their chances of success by following these tips:

• Pursue the right education. An aspiring professional must identify the minimum degree required for their chosen field, whether it is an associate degree for a radiologic technologist or a master’s degree for a nurse practitioner. Higher levels of education generally open doors to better-paying opportunities. If you are an RN with an associate’s degree, consider fast track RN to BSN online programs.
• Obtain specialized certifications. A healthcare worker who earns additional certifications—such as Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) or Certified Professional Coder (CPC)—demonstrates expertise that employers are often willing to reward with higher pay.
• Choose high-demand specialties. Certain areas, like anesthesia nursing, diagnostic imaging, or physician assistant roles, consistently command higher salaries. Selecting these paths gives aspiring professionals an advantage in reaching top earnings.
• Gain diverse clinical experience. A professional who works in multiple healthcare settings, such as hospitals, outpatient centers, or home care, develops adaptability and a broader skill set. This versatility makes them more competitive in the job market.
• Seek mentorship and build networks. An aspiring healthcare worker who connects with experienced mentors gains valuable career guidance and access to job opportunities. Networking within professional associations can also lead to advancement.
• Stay updated with healthcare trends. Professionals who remain knowledgeable about new medical technologies, treatments, and policies are better equipped to adapt and position themselves as leaders in their field.

The table below shows that several non-physician healthcare careers are among the fastest-growing occupations from 2024 to 2034. Nurse practitioners are projected to grow by 40%, while physician assistants and physical therapist assistants are expected to grow by 20% and 22%, respectively. Medical and health services managers will also see strong demand with 23% growth.

These rates place non-physician jobs in healthcare alongside technology and energy roles as some of the fastest-rising careers in the nation. This rapid growth suggests expanding opportunities, stronger job security, and the potential for rising salaries in the healthcare sector.

Here’s What Non-Physician Healthcare Workers Say About their Careers

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, May). Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nurse-anesthetists-nurse-midwives-and-nurse-practitioners.htm

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, May). Physical therapists. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, May). Physicians and surgeons. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physicians-and-surgeons.htm

• Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Healthcare occupations. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/

• Health Resources & Services Administration. (2024, November). Health workforce projections. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://bhw.hrsa.gov/data-research/projecting-health-workforce-supply-demand

• Statista. (2025). Share of healthcare professionals in the United States reporting burnout in 2024. Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1389778/nurses-feeling-burnout-united-states/

• ZipRecruiter. (2025). Salary database: Compare & estimate salary for any job. ZipRecruiter. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries

• ZipRecruiter. (2025). 25 of the highest paying nursing jobs in 2025. ZipRecruiter. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/g/Highest-Paying-Nursing-Jobs

Other Things to Know About Non-Physician Jobs in Healthcare