Healthcare Exploration

Athletic Trainers (ATs) are health care professionals, recognized by the American Medical Association, who provide preventative services, emergency care, clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions in collaboration with physicians. 

ATs provide care for a breadth of patients including, but not limited to, professional, collegiate, secondary school and youth athletes, dancers, musicians, and military personnel. ATs can work in a variety of locations including schools, physician clinics, performing arts centers, hospitals, and manufacturing plants. 
Athletic trainers are highly educated and skilled health sciences professional specializing in athletic health care. They work with coaches, doctors, and physical therapists. 

On a typical day, the roles and responsibilities of an athletic trainer include: 

• Providing athletic training services 

• Applying tape, bandages, and braces to protect or prevent injuries 

• Evaluating injuries and providing first aid 

• Implementing rehabilitation programs for injured athletes and developing injury prevention programs 

• Performing administrative tasks, such as writing reports and instructions 

Anesthesiology Assistant 101 (Courtesy of CAAHEP) 

Anesthesiologist assistants work as members of the anesthesia care team in any locale where they may be appropriately directed by legally responsible physician anesthesiologists. The AAs most often work within organizations that also employ nurse anesthetists, and their responsibilities are identical. Experience to date has been that AAs are most commonly employed in larger facilities that perform procedures such as cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, transplant surgery, and trauma care, given the training in extensive patient monitoring devices and complex patients and procedures emphasized in AA educational programs. However, AAs are used in hospitals of all sizes and assist physician anesthesiologists in a variety of settings and for a wide range of procedures. 

What is an Anesthesiology Assistant? 

The Anesthesiologist Assistant (AA) is a skilled person qualified by advanced academic and clinical education to provide anesthetic care under the direction of a qualified physician anesthesiologist. The physician anesthesiologist who is responsible for the AA is available to prescribe and direct particular therapeutic interventions in the operating room and the intensive care setting. 

By virtue of the basic science education and clinical practice experience, the AA is skilled in the use of contemporary state-of-the-art patient monitoring techniques in anesthesia care environments. The AA performs complementary and supplementary anesthetic care and monitoring tasks that allow the directing physician anesthesiologist to use his or her own skills more efficiently and effectively. 

What does an AA do? 

• Elicit a pre-anesthesia health history and perform a physical examination 
• Establish patient monitoring devices and intravenous access 
• Assist in the application and interpretation of advanced monitoring techniques such as pulmonary artery catheterization or echocardiography 
• Assist in the induction, maintenance, and emergence of a patient’s anesthetic 
• Secure the patient’s airway through a mask, endotracheal tube, or laryngeal mask airway 
• Interpret and record the patient’s physiological and pharmacological status 
• Provide continuity of care into and during the post-operative period 

Ready to Learn more about AA? Check out these resources: 

Review the introduction to the profession information from CAAHEP 
Check out the infographic  from American Academy of Anesthesiology Assistants 
Check out events from AAAEP 
University of Colorado School of Medicine Anesthesiology Assistant program 
There are currently 18 AA programs in the U.S. and Canada. Check out the websites of other AA schools you are interested in. 
Information on the Centralized Application Service CASAA: CASAA Applicant Guide 

Audiologist and Speech Language Pathologist   

Communication Sciences and Disorders 101 (Courtesy of ASHA) 

One Discipline: Communication Sciences and Disorders 
Two Professions: Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology 
Three Careers: Audiologist; Speech-Language Pathologist; and Speech, Language, and Hearing Scientist 

What is an Audiologist? 

Audiologists are health care professionals who specialize in preventing and assessing hearing and balance disorders as well as providing audiologic treatment, including hearing aids. Audiologists work with people of all ages to address these types of disorders. 

What does an Audiologist do? 

• Test the hearing of children and adults 
• Fit hearing aids when needed 
• Activate and program cochlear implants for children and adults 
• Work with people with cancer who have hearing loss due to ototoxic drugs used to treat cancer 
• Help veterans with hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) due to noise exposure (e.g., gunfire, explosions) 

What is a Speech-Language Pathologist? 

Speech-language pathologists are health care professionals who identify, assess, and treat speech and language problems as well as swallowing disorders. They provide services to clients with disorders in the following areas: 
Speech disorders, including articulation problems, fluency (e.g., stuttering) disorders, and voice problems 
Language disorders, including receptive/expressive language, spoken and written language, and social/pragmatic language 
Swallowing disorders, including pediatric and adult feeding disorders 
Cognitive disorders, including dementia 

What does a Speech-Language Pathologist do? 

• Help children pronounce sounds correctly 
• Work with toddlers and preschoolers to develop early language skills 
• Teach children and adults with autism to use speech devices to communicate their wants and needs 
• Help veterans with head injuries recover language comprehension and production skills 

Ready to Learn more about Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology? Check out these resources: 

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association  (information about the profession, admissions, scholarships, etc.) 
Learn more about audiology 
Learn more about speech-language pathology 
Discover more about speech, language, and hearing scientists 
Find a mentor 
Learn more from reading these brochures (free, just click Download PDF next to each) 
Planning your education 
Join National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA) and/or check out their events 
Check out the websites of schools  you are interested in; find Colorado schools here 

What is a Chiropractor? (Bureau of Labor Statistics) 
Chiropractors care for patients with health problems of the neuromusculoskeletal system, which includes nerves, bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. They use spinal adjustments and manipulation, as well as other clinical interventions, to manage patients’ health concerns, such as back and neck pain.  

Important Qualities 
Decision making skills. Chiropractors must determine the best course of action when treating a patient. They must also decide when to refer patients to other healthcare professionals. 
Detail oriented. Chiropractors must be observant and pay attention to details so that they can make proper diagnoses and avoid mistakes that could harm patients. 
Dexterity. Because they use their hands to perform manual adjustments to the spine and other joints, chiropractors should have good coordination to perform therapy effectively. 
Empathy. Chiropractors often care for people who are in pain. They must be understanding and sympathetic to their patients’ problems and needs. 
Interpersonal skills. Chiropractors must be personable in order to keep clients coming to their practice. Also, because chiropractors frequently touch patients in performing therapy, they should be able to put their patients at ease. 
Organizational skills. Self-employed chiropractors may need to schedule appointments, manage employees, bill insurance companies, and maintain patients’ files. Good recordkeeping and other organizational skills are critical in running a successful business. 

What does a Chiropractor do? 
• Assess a patient’s medical condition by reviewing the patient’s medical history and concerns, and by performing a physical examination 
• Analyze the patient’s posture, spine, and reflexes 
• Conduct tests, including evaluating a patient’s posture and taking x rays 
• Provide neuromusculoskeletal therapy, which often involves adjusting a patient’s spinal column and other joints 
• Give additional treatments, such as applying heat or cold to a patient’s injured areas 
• Advise patients on health and lifestyle issues, such as exercise, nutrition, and sleep habits 
• Refer patients to other healthcare professionals if needed Chiropractors focus on patients’ overall health. Chiropractors believe that malfunctioning spinal joints and other somatic tissues interfere with a person’s neuromuscular system and can result in poor health.Some chiropractors use procedures such as massage therapy, rehabilitative exercise, and ultrasound in addition to spinal adjustments and manipulation. They also may apply supports, such as braces or shoe inserts, to treat patients and relieve pain.In addition to operating a general chiropractic practice, some chiropractors specialize in areas such as sports, neurology, orthopedics, pediatrics, or nutrition, among others. Chiropractors in private practice are responsible for marketing their businesses, hiring staff, and keeping records. 

How to become a Chiropractor 

Chiropractors must earn a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree and a state license. Doctor of Chiropractic programs typically take 4 years to complete and require at least 3 years of undergraduate college education for admission. 

Education 

Prospective chiropractors are required to have a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree—a postgraduate professional degree that typically takes 4 years to complete. In 2017, there were 15 Doctor of Chiropractic programs on 18 campuses accredited by The Council on Chiropractic Education. 

Admission to D.C. programs requires at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate education, and some D.C. programs require a bachelor’s degree for entry. Most students typically earn a bachelor’s degree before applying to a chiropractic program. Schools have specific requirements for their chiropractic programs, but they generally require coursework in the liberal arts and in sciences such as physics, chemistry, and biology. Candidates should check with individual schools regarding their specific requirements. 

A D.C. program includes classwork in anatomy, physiology, biology, and similar subjects. Chiropractic students also get supervised clinical experience in which they train in spinal assessment, adjustment techniques, and making diagnoses. D.C. programs also may include classwork in business management and in billing and finance. Most D.C. programs offer a dual-degree option, in which students may earn either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in another field while completing their D.C.Some chiropractors complete postgraduate programs. These programs provide additional training in specialty areas, such as orthopedics and pediatrics. Classes are taken at chiropractic colleges. 

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations 

All states and the District of Columbia require chiropractors to be licensed. Although specific requirements vary by state, all require the completion of an accredited Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree program and passing all four parts of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exam. 
Many states also require applicants to pass a background check and state-specific law exams, called jurisprudence exams. All states require a practicing chiropractor to take continuing education classes to maintain his or her chiropractic license. Check with your state’s board of chiropractic examiners or health department for more specific information on licensure. 

Ready to Learn more about Chiropractic Care? 

Check out these resources: 
• American Chiropractic Association 
• Find Accredited Chiropractic Education programs 

Interested in pursuing a Chiropractic Education? 
• Contact your advisor to add required coursework to your major. (able to add to any major, based on the requirements, not a major or minor) 
• Occupational Outlook, Employment and wage statistics 

Dentist 

DENTISTRY 101  (Courtesy of ADEA) 

The dental profession is the branch of health care devoted to maintaining the health of the teeth, gums and other tissues in and around the mouth. A dentist is a doctor, scientist and clinician dedicated to the highest standards of health through prevention, diagnosis and treatment of oral diseases and conditions. Dentists play a key role in the early detection of oral cancer and other systemic conditions of the body that manifest themselves in the mouth. They often identify other health conditions, illnesses, and other problems that sometimes show up in the oral cavity before they are identified in other parts of the body. 

What does a Dentist do? 

• Evaluates the overall health of their patients while advising them about oral health and disease prevention. 
• Performs clinical procedures, such as exams, fillings, crowns, implants, extractions and corrective surgeries. 
• Identifies, diagnoses and treats oral conditions. 
• Performs general dentistry or practices in one of nine dental specialties. 

Advances in dental research, including genetic engineering, the discovery of links between oral and systemic diseases, the development of salivary diagnostics and the continued development of new materials and techniques, make dentistry an exciting, challenging and rewarding profession. 
Ready to Learn more about Dentistry? Check out these resources: 

Is dentistry right for you? 
Future Dentists (dental school curriculum, application process, preparation, FAQs, etc.) 
School of Dental Medicine at CU Anschutz Medical Campus 
Check out the websites of other dental schools you are interested in! 

Ready to Pursue Dental School? 

Visit the Career Center’s Pre-Dental Page to learn more about requirements. 
Contact your advisor to add the Pre-Dentistry Advising Guide (able to add to any major, based on the requirements at CU Anschutz, not a major or minor) 

Genetic Counselors 
• Genetic counselors are not doctors, but they are an important part of a healthcare team. 
• Genetic counselors can meet with individuals or families before or after genetic testing. 
• Genetic counselors are specialized in prenatal, pediatric, oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, psychiatry, and many other areas. 
• Many genetic counselors are able to see patients via telehealth options. 
In addition to different specialty areas, genetic counselors can have roles outside of seeing patients. Genetic counselors can work in research, education, industry, marketing, and many other roles across the healthcare and genetics fields.  

Many things about you are partly or entirely determined by your DNA, and more specifically by tiny variations in sections of your DNA called genes, which you inherited from your parents. Your genes can also increase your risk of developing certain health conditions, including certain types of cancer or heart disease. Genetics is the study of these genes and of your heredity.Genetic counselors have advanced training in medical genetics and counseling to guide and support patients seeking more information about how inherited diseases and conditions might affect them or their families, and to interpret genetic test results based on your personal and family history.You may be referred to a genetic counselor by a doctor (such as an obstetrician, oncologist or medical geneticist) to discuss your family history and genetic risks, or before or after having genetic testing. 

While genetic counselors are not medical doctors, they are part of your healthcare team and work with you and your doctor to help you understand: 
• Your genetic risks based on your family history 
• Your genetic risks for certain diseases or cancer 
• Whether genetic testing might be right for you 
• What the results of genetic tests may mean for you and your family 
With expertise in counseling, genetic counselors can also provide emotional support as you make decisions and empower you with information for your overall healthcare. 

National Society of Genetic Counselors: https://www.nsgc.org/ 

Becoming a Genetic Counselor 

Genetic counseling is a rewarding career, as evidenced by the explosive growth in genetic counselors; since 2006, the number of genetic counselors has grown by more than 100 percent and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statics projects a growth rate of 29 percent for genetic counseling positions through 2026. But, there is still a great need for more genetic counselors. For many genetic counselors, the first step to becoming a genetic counselor is to earn an undergraduate Bachelor’s degree that includes coursework in genetics, biochemistry, psychology and statistics. Ideal candidates also have experiences such as patient advocacy, counseling, scientific lab or healthcare volunteer work. Training to become a genetic counselor then involves earning a Master’s degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling (ACGC). This Programs vary in length, but are typically 2 years long and include Clinical experience in various genetic specialties, Coursework in human genetics, psychosocial counseling, bioethics, research methodology, genetic testing technology and more, Research other independent study projects and Additional activities including education, advocacy experiences, case conferences, etc. Upon completion of a degree, certification through the American Board of Genetic Counseling (ABGC), demonstrates that the individual has met the standards necessary to provide competent genetic counseling. Many hospitals and clinics insist their genetic counselors be ABGC-certified. 

Gerontology is the study of aging and older adults. The science of gerontology has evolved as longevity has improved. Researchers in this field are diverse and are trained in areas such as physiology, social science, psychology, public health, and policy. A more complete definition of gerontology includes all of the following: Scientific studies of processes associated with the bodily changes from middle age through later life; Multidisciplinary investigation of societal changes resulting from an aging population and ranging from the humanities (e.g., history, philosophy, literature) to economics; and Applications of this knowledge to policies and programs. 

The Difference Between Gerontology and Geriatrics 

Gerontology is multidisciplinary and is concerned with physical, mental, and social aspects and implications of aging. Geriatrics is a medical specialty focused on care and treatment of older persons. Although gerontology and geriatrics have differing emphases, they both have the goal of understanding aging so that people can maximize their functioning and achieve a high quality of life. 

Why Study Gerontology? 

With an understanding of gerontology, an individual can make plans for her or his own life course and needs, and communities and legislators can make necessary public policy choices. Public policy decisions are critical because of the tremendous growth of our population aged 65. Georgia’s older adult population is the fourth fastest growing in the nation and currently numbers 1.2 million. The South added nearly 2.5 million older adults between 2000 and 2010. Nationally, it is projected that the older population will double to 89 million by 2050 – a rate of growth that is twice as fast as the under age 50 population. The demand for professionals with expertise in gerontology will mirror these increases. 

UCCS Gerontology Center: https://geron.uccs.edu/ 
UCCS Gerontology Minor: http://catalog.uccs.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=17&poid=4042&hl=%22gerontology%22&returnto=search 

Health Administration and Healthcare Management 

There are many similarities between healthcare management and healthcare administration, so it can be easy to mix the two up. Though they do overlap quite a bit, which is why they are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences between the two.  If you’re trying to make a more educated decision as to which best suits your career vision, keep reading to explore the similarities and differences between healthcare management and administration. 

What Is Healthcare Administration? 

Simply put, healthcare administration runs staffing for medical organizations and institutions, as well as sharing some responsibilities with healthcare management to ensure the facility is running the way it’s supposed to. Healthcare administrators’ main goal is to gain and manage quality staff to ensure the organization or institution they work for is functioning smoothly and efficiently. 

Healthcare administrators are also focused on what kind of services they offer to their patients. Though they don’t personally administer medical treatment to their facility’s patients, they play a large role in what treatments are available to said patients. Administrators might be responsible for an entire facility or a specific department. These professionals are in charge of keeping records for the staff, making schedules, providing human resource services, and anything else that might have to do with the staff of their facility. The nature of an individual position under the healthcare administration umbrella changes depending on the job description. Smaller facilities have a smaller staff, which means fewer healthcare administrators required to maintain them. The larger the hospital or organization, the more the administration tasks get spread around to a larger team of professionals, each with their own responsibility to their place of work. 

Where do healthcare administration professionals work? 

What Is Healthcare Management? 

While healthcare administration is focused on filling healthcare organizations with staff, healthcare management focuses on running the organization itself. The healthcare management professional is more concerned with financial management, supplies, and the overall maintenance of the facility than simply the staff that runs it. Healthcare management professionals play an important part in making sure the healthcare facility is financially stable. 

They ensure that the healthcare provider they work for has a healthy balance between goals and budget. Healthcare managers run the business side of their places of work to ensure the doctors, physicians, therapists, nurses, and others who work there can keep providing their services and receive their salaries. 

One of the largest differences between administration and management is the accounting aspect of healthcare management. In this way, healthcare managers are more concerned with the overall operations of a facility as a whole, rather than the more business-inward patient-focused approach administrators take. 

Where do healthcare management professionals work? 

Healthcare management professionals often work side-by-side with their healthcare administration counterparts. Healthcare managers work most commonly in hospitals, but they work in any organization or facility large enough to warrant an employee solely dedicated to running the facility. Every healthcare organization, business, and institution works with money — even nonprofits — and they each need someone to look after their finances. That’s where healthcare management teams perform their duties. 

Job Outlook: Healthcare management professionals are in demand, and their job outlook is positive. In 2018, there were 406,100 medical and health services manager jobs and that number is expected to increase by 18%, or 71,600 new jobs, from 2018 to 2028. 

Healthcare Administrator Duties 

The duties of a position in the field of healthcare administration depend largely on that position’s job description. Their main goal is to ensure that their facilities are equipped to treat their patients by making sure they have enough supplies and staff to operate, as well as anything else the facility might need in the process. 

Healthcare administrators work directly with the people who work directly with patients, but they rarely work with the patients themselves. They will create schedules for employees to ensure there are enough people during working hours to provide services to patients, maintain patient records, and perform human resource services for the employees. They might take on some of the responsibilities of hiring and training new employees to replace outgoing ones or to fill in new positions. 

It’s also a goal of healthcare administrators to make sure their facility or organization is up to code and always following regulations and laws. Part of this includes tracking information about the population health of the facility’s clients, analyzing risks of treatments, meeting with governmental bodies, and communicating with department heads to make sure that everything is working in accordance with the law and the facility’s own policies. 

Duties of a healthcare administrator include: 

• Developing and implementing policies for employees, as well as communicating with employees about changes in policy 
• Keep an inventory of the facility’s stock and supplies 
• Develop a supply chain management plan to increase efficiency 
• Make sure that the facility and the departments within it are adhering to budgets and plans 
• Measure the population health of a facility’s patients to measure the success of the facility 
• Create, maintain, and update filing systems for patient medical records 
• Measure risks and develop plans for risk management 

Healthcare Manager Duties 

Similar to healthcare administration professionals, the duties of a healthcare management professional varies from position to position. But the healthcare management team as a whole is responsible for completing any task that has to do with the facility’s budget. The healthcare management professional will work with other staff to ensure that the business side of their facility is running smoothly. This means ensuring that the employees of the facility have the tools and equipment they need to do their jobs well, scrutinizing department budgets, and supplying the facility with everything it needs in order to provide patients with the best care available to them. 

Much of the healthcare management professional’s responsibility – especially at higher levels within the field – is researching, creating, and implementing a business plan for the facility they work for. The manager develops business strategies that will help the facility reach its goals while staying within budget. There is a lot of money flowing through healthcare facilities – the healthcare manager is there to see that it gets put to good use for the benefit of the staff and the patients alike. 

Like healthcare administrators, healthcare management professionals may also keep track of laws and regulations to ensure their facility is in accordance. However, healthcare administrators may focus more on medical regulations and laws than healthcare management professionals do. 

Other healthcare management duties may include: 

• Hiring and training staff 
• Maintaining records for the facility, including supplies and equipment information, services rendered, data on current patient counts, etc. 
• Meeting and coordinating with department heads 
• Meeting with investors and boards with interest or funds in the facility 
• Searching for ways to improve the efficiency of the healthcare facility 
• Scheduling shifts for staff 

Education and Experience Requirements 

Across the board, a bachelor’s degree is suggested as a minimum qualification to be hired as a healthcare administration or management professional. The big difference is what you get that degree in. 

That being said, some lower entry-level positions in both may hire those with associate degrees, but further advancement without a bachelor’s degree may be challenging. 

Healthcare Administration 

Education plays a large role in clearing up the differences between healthcare administration and management. To become a healthcare administration professional, one must pursue an education specific to the field, as opposed to management, which can be entered with a business degree. 

Generally, the bare minimum qualification to begin a career in healthcare administration is a bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in healthcare administration. These degrees generally take four years to complete, unless you enroll in an specific program that helps you achieve your degree faster, such as Concorde’s online Bachelor’s of Science degree in Healthcare Administration, which can be completed in as few as 24 months. 

From there, you might choose to pursue your master’s degree, which can open up doors for internships and experience that will make you a more attractive candidate for higher-level healthcare administration positions. 

Healthcare Management 

To enter the world of healthcare management, you may find more opportunities with a bachelor’s degree rather than an associate’s degree. Healthcare management professionals can have a bachelor’s degree in a wider selection of options. Candidates can use a wider selection of degree options to pursue a career in healthcare management, such as accounting, business, and marketing. 

Many positions in healthcare management call for experience with accounting and business management, rather than health-related areas. Keep in mind that healthcare management is more about business than healthcare itself. 

Once you have your bachelor’s degree in an applicable field, you can continue your education by pursuing a master’s degree, such as a master’s degree in business administration, or MBA. This will put you in a better position to rise through the ranks of your facility or find a higher, better-paying job. 

How Do I Get Started? 

As with any new career choice, the first step in becoming a healthcare professional starts with education. However, finding the time and money for that education is the difficult part. That’s where Concorde comes in. 

Concorde’s educational programs give you an opportunity to get a head start in your healthcare career with immersive classes that cover a variety of topics to get you ready to take the next step. Our Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration program lets you further your education online so that you can also take care of life’s demands. 

More on careers in Healthcare Management/Administration: https://explorehealthcareers.org/field/health-administration-management 

The following mental health professionals can provide psychological assessments and therapy; however, cannot generally prescribe medications: 

Clinical Psychologist – A psychologist with a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited/designated program in psychology. Psychologists are trained to make diagnoses and provide individual and group therapy. 

School Psychologist – A psychologist with an advanced degree in psychology from an accredited/designated program in School Psychology. School Psychologists are trained to make diagnoses, provide individual and group therapy, and work with school staff to maximize efficiency in the schools setting. 

The following mental health professionals can provide counseling and with proper training, assessments; however, cannot prescribe medication: 

Clinical Social Worker – A counselor with a master’s degree in social work from an accredited graduate program. Trained to make diagnoses, provide individual and group counseling, and provide case management and advocacy; usually found in the hospital setting. 
Licensed Professional Counselor – A counselor with a master’s degree in psychology, counseling or a related field. Trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. 
Mental Health Counselor – A counselor with a master’s degree and several years of supervised clinical work experience. Trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. 
Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor – Counselor with specific clinical training in alcohol and drug abuse. Trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. 
Nurse Psychotherapist – registered nurse who is trained in the practice of psychiatric and mental health nursing. Trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. 
Marital and Family Therapist – counselor with a master’s degree, with special education and training in marital and family therapy. Trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. 
Pastoral Counselor – clergy with training in clinical pastoral education. Trained to diagnose and provide individual and group counseling. 
Peer Specialist – counselor with lived experience with mental health or substance use conditions. Assists clients with recovery by recognizing and developing strengths, and setting goals. Many peer support programs require several hours of training. 
Other Therapists – therapist with an advance degree trained in specialized forms of therapy. Examples include art therapist, music therapist. 

The following mental health professionals can prescribe medication; however, they may not provide therapy: 

Psychiatrist – A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illnesses. A psychiatrist can prescribe medication, but they often do not counsel patients. 
Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist – A medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and behavioral problems in children. Child and Adolescent psychiatrists can also prescribe medication; however, they may not provide psychotherapy. 
Psychiatric or Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – A registered nurse practitioner with a graduate degree and specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional illness. 

Additionally, your Primary Care Physician, Physician’s Assistant or Nurse Practitioner (depending on your state) are often qualified to provide medication. 

Naturopathic medicine is a distinct health care profession that combines the wisdom of nature with the rigors of modern science. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are trained as primary care providers who diagnose, treat and manage patients with acute and chronic conditions, while addressing disease and dysfunction at the level of body, mind and spirit. 
NDs concentrate on whole patient wellness through health promotion and disease prevention, while addressing the underlying cause of the patient’s condition. Naturopathic physicians care for patients of all ages and genders, and practice in settings ranging from private clinics to integrative medical centers, urgent care clinics and hospitals. NDs are clinicians, authors, scholars, researchers and entrepreneurs, and are increasingly in demand across numerous industries. They provide individualized, evidence-informed therapies that balance the least harmful and most effective approaches in order to help facilitate the body’s inherent ability to restore and maintain optimal health. Naturopathic doctors are experts in natural medicine, and naturopathic medical education is the most efficient and direct way to train as a primary care doctor who specializes in natural medicine. 

Naturopathic medicine is based upon six fundamental principles: 
The 6 Principles of Naturopathic Medicine 

• First, do no harm: Utilize the most natural, least invasive and least toxic therapies. 
• The healing power of nature: Trust in the body’s inherent wisdom to heal itself. 
• Identify and treat the causes: Look beyond the symptoms to the underlying cause. 
• Physician as teacher: Educate patients in the steps to achieving and maintaining health. 
• Treat the whole person: View the body as an integrated whole in all its physical and spiritual dimensions. 
• Prevention: Focus on overall health, wellness and disease prevention. 

Naturopathic Education 

Naturopathic medical education is extremely comprehensive and trains graduates for primary care delivery. New doctors may choose to develop an interest in a specific area of medicine, or maintain a broad practice, seeing a variety of patients and conditions. 

For those NDs who graduate with a passion for a particular area of focus, there are many options to pursue that interest. Some naturopathic doctors seek out internships and residencies in a specific field. Others begin practicing as generalists and naturally gravitate toward continuing education and patients with similar health journeys. The naturopathic profession offers career path flexibility that can grow and mature with a doctor’s clinical skill and professional trajectory. 

Myths about Naturopathic Medicine according to the AANMC: 

Myth #1: You may complete your naturopathic medical degree online. 
While some prerequisites may be taken online, the degree itself is hands-on training to become a doctor. Completion of any fully online naturopathic medical program does not confer eligibility for licensure as a naturopathic doctor in any jurisdiction that formally recognizes naturopathic doctors. Graduates of online programs are neither qualified nor eligible to sit for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), the passage of which is also a requirement for regulation. 

Myth #2: Naturopathic medicine is not scientific or evidenced-based. 
Regulated naturopathic doctors go through rigorous four-year, science-based medical education at an accredited or candidate school of the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (the only naturopathic programmatic accreditation agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education). A minimum of two years is spent studying the same biomedical sciences that prepare medical students to be doctors. 

Myth #3: Naturopathic doctors are anti-drug/anti-pharmaceuticals. 
Naturopathic doctors are not anti-drug/anti-pharmaceuticals. The ND curriculum includes the study of pharmaceuticals as well as the biochemical pathways and mechanisms of actions, indications, and adverse effects of drugs. As an addendum to conventional pharmacology, NDs study the intersection and efficacy of conventional medications with supplements and herbs and drug/herb, drug/nutrient interactions. 

Myth #4: Naturopaths and naturopathic doctors are the same. 
In jurisdictions that do not regulate the naturopathic profession, individuals without accredited training sometimes use the title naturopath or naturopathic doctor. These individuals should not be confused with graduates from CNME recognized four-year programs and do not complete the standardized education of an accredited program. 

Myth #5: You need to choose between naturopathic medicine and conventional medicine. 
Naturopathic physicians are an integral component of the health care team and work alongside conventional physicians in academia, clinical settings and research. Naturopathic doctors provide patient care based on a foundation of conventional and integrative medicine. As such there is growing demand for NDs in integrative settings. 

Myth #6: Naturopathic medicine is only for wealthy patients. 
There is growing insurance coverage for naturopathic medicine in a number of states in the US, which helps make naturopathic care more accessible. For patients who may be unable to afford care, NDs often offer income-based sliding scales. 

Myth #7: Naturopathic doctors are the same as homeopaths. 
Naturopathic doctors and homeopaths are not the same. Homeopathy is one of many tools in a naturopathic doctor’s therapeutic toolbox. It is one of many therapies available and only one component of a diverse curriculum. 

Myth #8: Naturopathic doctors are not trained as primary care doctors. 
Licensed naturopathic doctors work in primary care settings across North America and are able to manage most outpatient concerns typically seen in primary care practices. Naturopathic doctors learn to treat all aspects of family health and wellness, from pediatrics to geriatrics, and acute colds and flus, to chronic aches and pains. 

Find programs here: https://aanmc.org/naturopathic-schools/ 

Accredited Programs: Naturopathic medicine programs of the member schools have been accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), the recognized accreditor for naturopathic medical programs in North America. Graduation from a naturopathic medicine program that is accredited or is a candidate for accreditation guarantees eligibility to sit for the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX), the passage of which is required to obtain licensure. 

Current Specialty Associations affiliated with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians: 
American Association of Naturopathic Midwives 
Endocrinology Association of Naturopathic Physicians 
Gastroenterology Association of Naturopathic Physicians 
Homeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians 
Naturopathic Association of Environmental Medicine 
Naturopathic Medicine Institute 
Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians 
Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians 
Psychiatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians 
Homoeopathic Academy of Naturopathic Physicians 

Learn more: 
American Association of Naturopathic Medicine  https://aanmc.org/ 
American Assoc. of Naturopathic Physicians https://naturopathic.org/ 

ACEND: Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics 
 
Distinguishing the Difference Between a Dietitian vs Nutritionist  

Many people mistakenly use the terms “dietitian” and “nutritionist” interchangeably. Although these two professions are undoubtedly related, they maintain distinctive qualities. The biggest difference between dietitians and nutritionists lies in the legal restrictions that each title carries. Although dietitians and nutritionists both help people find the best diets and foods to meet their health needs, they have different qualifications. In the United States, dietitians are certified to treat clinical conditions, whereas nutritionists are not always certified. 

Only nutritionists that become registered with Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) may legally declare themselves as dietitians or more precisely, registered dietitians (RDs). 

Unlike dietitians, the nutritionist profession is much less protected under the law. In fact, nutritionists that do not intend to use the titles of “dietitian” or “registered dietitian” are often free from government regulation. Some states may require nutritionists to obtain an occupational license from a Board of Nutrition, while other states allow individuals to practice as nutritionists without any previous education, training or work experience. 

Dietitians and Nutritionists Career Outlook  

There is a valid reason why so many health care advocates are pursuing careers as dietitians and nutritionists: the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates a positive occupational outlook for both professions. In 2012, the government reported the employment of 67,400 dietitians and nutritionists across the country. By 2022, this figure is expected to climb to 81,600. This addition of 14,200 jobs over a ten-year period equates to 21% employment growth change, which is a faster growth rate than the average for all other occupations. 
 
Education Difference between Dietitians and Nutritionists  

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, registered dietitians are required to complete a formal education program that results in at least a baccalaureate degree. This program must be approved by the Dietetics’ Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) and include a practical component performed in a career-related site. In addition, the program must provide coursework that covers subjects in: 

• Food service systems management 
• Food and nutrition sciences 
• Computer science 
• Chemistry 
• Business 
• Microbiology 
• Sociology 
• Biochemistry 
• Physiology 
• Economics 

Although some nutritionists may not need any educational background to practice in their state, they will likely need to complete some formal coursework in nutrition-related subjects to qualify for employment. Nutritionists that seek the certified nutrition specialist (CNS) credential are required to complete a baccalaureate or advanced nutritionist degree in a nutrition discipline to qualify for the certification examination. 

Credentials for Dietitians and Nutritionists  

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers dieticians the opportunity to earn the registered dietitian (RD) credential. To become a RD, dietitians must: complete a baccalaureate degree from an ACEND-approved program; complete an ACEND-approved supervised clinical program; successfully pass the CDR registration examination; complete continuing professional education credits needed to maintain registration. 

The Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (CBNS) offers nutritionists the opportunity to earn the certified nutrition specialist (CNS) credential. To become a CNS, nutritionists must: complete a master’s or doctoral degree in a field-related discipline; complete 1,000 hours of supervised practical experience; successfully pass the CBNS certification examination; complete continuing professional education needed to maintain certification. 

Other nutrition services include nutrition coaches, health coaches, and fitness instructors in gyms. The level of training required among professionals with these job titles can vary. 

In order to use titles such as RDN or CCN, a person must have proper certification. It is important to thoroughly check a practitioner’s qualifications and experience before working with them, as their expertise may vary. 
In the U.S., dietitians must receive certification from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in order to practice. Dietitians can treat specific health conditions, such as eating disorders, by providing food recommendations. 
Some organizations also certify nutritionists, such as the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS). However, nutritionist training can vary. Some states do not require certification, so it is possible for anyone in those states to offer nutrition advice. 

Nutritionists may also have different areas of focus to dietitians. For example, nutritionists can pursue advanced qualifications in specific health areas, such as sports nutrition, digestive disorders, and autoimmune conditions. The BCNS also offer Certified Ketogenic Nutrition Specialist qualifications for those who want to understand the keto diet in more detail. However, some nutritionists provide more general advice on healthful eating, weight loss, and reducing tiredness. 

Registered dietitian nutritionists  

Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to people with certain health conditions. 
This could be in a hospital setting or in a private practice. Sometimes, RDNs also provide nutritional education and expertise to schools, nursing homes, food-related businesses, or public health offices. 
To become an RDN, a person must receive certification from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. To earn this certification, they need to: 

• have a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification at a regionally accredited university or college in the U.S. 
• have the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics accredit or approve their coursework 
• complete 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited practice program 
• pass a national examination that the Commission on Dietetic Registration administer 
• complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration 

Certified clinical nutritionist  

A certified clinical nutritionist (CCN) is qualified to assess people’s nutritional needs based on their lifestyle and health goals. The Clinical Nutrition Certification Board offer this certification. 
A CCN can provide personalized recommendations for diet, exercise, supplements, and stress relief. To become a CCN, a person must have one of the following nutrition degrees in order to begin training: 

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) 
• Masters (M.S.) 
• Doctor of Philosophy 
• Doctor of Science (Sc.D.) 

Alternatively, they might have an advanced professional degree in another licensed healthcare field. 

The amount of training a person needs to become a certified CCN depends on their preexisting qualifications. For example, someone with a B.S. degree must spend a minimum of 3 course hours on a range of topics — such as human physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology — before they become certified. 
Someone with a more advanced degree, such as an Sc.D. or nursing degree, may not need to complete as much training. However, all CCNs must pass an exam and need to maintain their certification with ongoing training every 2 years. 

Certified nutrition specialist  

The certified nutrition specialist (CNS) credential is a qualification that a nutritionist can earn in the U.S. The BCNS certify all CNSs. 

People who apply for CNS training must have an M.S. or doctoral degree in nutrition or another related field. In addition to these degrees, all trainee CNSs must: 

• complete coursework from a regionally accredited institution 
• complete 1,000 hours of documented, supervised practice 
• pass an exam 
• recertify with continuing education credits every 5 years 

The minimum number of hours a CNS must spend learning about the life sciences is higher than that of CCNs. They may also study topics such as pharmacology, drug interactions, and nutritional disorders. 

Salary Expectations for Dietitians and Nutritionists  

As of May 2021, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an average salary of $65,620 for dietitians and nutritionists. The highest paying industries for dietitians and nutritionists during this time included: 
• Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing 
• Merchant wholesales of nondurable goods 
• Home healthcare services 
• Federal agencies (e.g., CDC, FDA, CMS) 
• Scientific research and development services 

The top-paying states for dietitians and nutritionists included: 
California 
Washington DC 
Hawaii 
New Jersey 
Rhode Island 

UCCS 

The UCCS Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics (MSc) is an integrated two-year graduate program designed to provide students with applied learning experience in preparation for a career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). The program curriculum is built on a competency-based education framework known as the Future Education Model. Students will have access to the Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center, containing expansive classrooms and a teaching kitchen. Our partnership with Centura Health will connect students with high quality preceptors; small student-to-preceptor ratios will continue a 40-year history of clinical teaching excellence. 

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences’ Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

Additional Program Information 

Students need to meet all academic requirements of the graduate program to earn a verification statement and Master of Sciences in Nutrition and Dietetics. 
As our program combines didactic and experiential learning, it is recommended students do not take on additional work commitments during the fall and spring semesters. Students may benefit from working during the summer between the 1st and 2nd year of the program. 

Upon completion of all program requirements of the UCCS Integrated Program in Nutrition and Dietetics, students will earn a verification statement resulting in eligibility to take the credentialing exam to become an RDN. Alternative pathways can be explored through the ACEND’s information for students page under “pathways to registration.” Currently, Colorado does not have licensure requirements for RDNs.