High paying medical jobs that don't require med school?

I'm interested in the healthcare field but not too keen on spending years in medical school. Are there medical jobs that pay well and don't require becoming a doctor? Any advice on certifications or pathways to consider?

There are indeed a number of high-paying roles in the healthcare sector that don't require a medical degree. Here are a few examples:

1. Nurse Practitioners: These professionals fill a crucial role in healthcare, providing services similar to primary care physicians, but at a master's level education requirement, rather than a medical degree.

2. Physician Assistants: Physician assistants perform similar duties to doctors, including diagnosing and treating illnesses, and even performing some minor surgeries. You would need to pursue a Master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from an accredited program.

3. Pharmacists: Pharmacists require a Doctor of Pharmacy, which is different from a medical degree. They focus on dispensing medications, counselling patients about their prescriptions, and in some cases acting as a primary care provider.

4. Occupational Therapists: They help people recover or develop the skills needed for daily living and working. This role requires a Master's degree in occupational therapy.

5. Radiation Therapists: Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other illnesses. This role could require a 12-month certification program or a 4-year degree, depending on the employer's requirements.

Certification or licensure required varies by state and profession, so please check with the respective regulatory agencies in your jurisdiction to ensure you meet the necessary requirements.

Another thing worth mentioning is that most of these jobs require clinical hours and passing a licensure exam before you can practice. So while you may not spend years in medical school, you'll still need to invest significant time in education and clinical experience. However, these jobs also come with rewarding pay and the opportunities to directly impact patients' wellbeing. Remember, healthcare is a field where continuous learning is important regardless of the specific career path you choose.