10 In-Demand Allied Health Careers to Consider
Allied health careers are rapidly gaining attention for their stability, growth potential, and impact on patient care. These professions support doctors, nurses, and specialists, and are essential to the functioning of hospitals, clinics, and dental offices across the United States. With the rising demand for healthcare services—driven by an aging population, increased access to health insurance, and the need for preventive care—now is the perfect time to consider a future in allied health.
Whether you’re just starting out or seeking a career change, allied health offers a wide range of opportunities. From direct patient care roles to those behind the scenes in diagnostics and administration, there’s a path to fit nearly every interest and skillset. Below are 10 in-demand allied health careers to consider—including at least three in dental health—each offering meaningful work, solid compensation, and accessible training paths.
1. Dental Assistant
Dental assistants are key members of the dental team, helping with everything from patient care to administrative tasks. They often prepare patients for procedures, assist the dentist during exams, take x-rays, and manage patient records. Their ability to multitask and keep a dental office running smoothly makes them indispensable.
This role continues to grow in demand due to the increased focus on preventative dental care. Dental assistants can often be trained in under a year, making it a fast track to a stable, rewarding healthcare career. Hands-on experience is a major component of most programs, giving students the confidence to thrive in real dental office environments.
2. Medical Assistant
Medical assistants work in a variety of healthcare settings including physician offices, outpatient clinics, and hospitals. They handle both administrative and clinical duties such as scheduling appointments, updating patient records, taking vital signs, and preparing patients for exams.
This career offers flexibility and variety, making it an ideal entry point for individuals looking to get their foot in the door of the healthcare industry. With accelerated training programs available, many medical assistants can start working within a year of beginning their education.
3. Surgical Technologist
Surgical technologists, or “scrub techs,” assist in surgical operations under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. They prepare the operating room, ensure all instruments are sterile, and assist during surgeries by passing instruments and maintaining a sterile field.
This is a high-intensity, high-reward career that offers a front-row seat to life-saving procedures. Training programs typically take around a year to complete, and certification can enhance job prospects and salary.
4. Pharmacy Technician
Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in healthcare by helping pharmacists dispense prescription medication. They work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities, managing inventory, handling prescriptions, and communicating with both patients and providers.
Due to the growing aging population and increased prescription drug use, pharmacy technicians are in high demand. Many states require formal training and certification, which can often be completed in less than a year.
5. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists perform critical services like cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases, and educating patients on proper oral hygiene. They work closely with dentists and are often the first to detect early signs of problems like gum disease or tooth decay.
This role offers excellent pay, flexible hours, and strong job security. While it requires an associate degree (typically a two-year commitment), the investment pays off with a high return in job satisfaction and compensation.
6. Radiologic Technologist
Radiologic technologists, or radiographers, perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays, to help physicians diagnose and treat diseases or injuries. They work in hospitals, outpatient centers, and diagnostic labs.
This career is ideal for individuals who enjoy technology and patient interaction. Radiologic technologists usually complete a two-year associate degree and often earn strong salaries with benefits. Certification improves job prospects and is required by many employers.
7. Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA)
Physical therapist assistants help patients recover from injuries and illnesses by guiding them through therapeutic exercises and assisting with mobility strategies. They work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers.
PTAs are in demand due to the increase in aging populations and chronic conditions. The role requires an associate degree, but the career provides strong pay, hands-on patient interaction, and opportunities to make a lasting impact on someone’s recovery and quality of life.
8. Dental Lab Technician
Dental lab technicians design and build dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances. They work closely with dentists to ensure that these items fit properly and function well for patients.
This career suits individuals who enjoy working with their hands, using tools, and creating custom solutions for patient care. Many dental lab technicians receive on-the-job training or attend vocational programs. As dental technology advances, the need for skilled technicians continues to grow.
9. Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)
Occupational therapy assistants work under occupational therapists to help patients regain or improve their ability to perform daily activities. They work with individuals recovering from injury or managing developmental or cognitive conditions, often in hospitals, nursing homes, or schools.
The career requires an associate degree and national certification, but the role offers tremendous personal satisfaction. OTAs help patients adapt their environments and routines to live fuller, more independent lives.
10. Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Medical billing and coding specialists ensure healthcare providers are paid for their services. They translate patient diagnoses and procedures into standardized codes used for insurance billing and record-keeping.
While not patient-facing, this career is essential to the financial and administrative side of healthcare. Training can be completed in under a year, and remote work opportunities make this especially appealing to those who want flexibility while contributing to healthcare operations.
Get Started with Zollege Today
If you’re considering a career in allied health, Zollege can help you get there faster. Zollege is an accelerated, in-person training provider with medical and dental assistant programs offered at campuses across the United States. Unlike online-only schools, Zollege provides low-cost, hands-on training in real dental offices—helping you build confidence, skills, and job-ready experience from day one. Whether you’re looking to enter the workforce quickly or change careers with purpose, explore how Zollege can help you launch your healthcare journey today.