Believe it or not, there are medical careers that don't require contact with blood. Some of these careers require minimal training and education, while others require the full medical doctor training. If you're interested in helping others, but faint at the sight of blood, you might consider a career in nurse assisting, medical records, physical therapy, certain areas of research or psychiatry.
Nursing Aide Careers
While medical assisting careers may not allow you to avoid blood all together, blood is not involved in the normal job duties. Nursing aides, home health aides and orderlies provide basic patient care such as bathing, feeding and helping patient move about. Minimal education beyond high school is required for these occupations; most train on the job. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual income of $23,850 as of May 2008.
Medical Records Careers
A career dealing with medical billing, record keeping and health information technology steers clear of blood altogether. A medical records or health information technician compiles and maintains patient health care records according to policies and regulations. The median annual salary for careers in this area, according to the BLS, is $30,610 annually. A two-year associate's degree is the typical educational requirement for a career in medical records.
Physical Therapy Careers
Physical therapists and therapist assistants work with patients on physical mobility to reduce pain or improve range of movement. They work with patients suffering from disabilities due to illness or injury. But since their work is non-invasive, generally no blood is encountered. Physical therapists require a master's degree and can expect an annual salary of about $72,790. Therapist assistants need an associate's degree and earn an average of $46,140 annually, according to the BLS.
Research Careers
While many research careers may require sampling and analyzing blood, biostatisticians won't see a drop. Biostatisticians analyze statistical data and apply their findings to medical and public health research. They also design research programs aimed at analyzing a specific problem. The median annual salary for statisticians was $72,610 in May of 2008. While many biostatisticians hold a master's or doctorate degree, a bachelor's degree in biostatistics, statistics or mathematics might get you an entry-level position.
Psychiatry Careers
Psychiatrists work with patients suffering from mental illness. They conduct therapy sessions, either individually or in groups, to assess patients and plan a strategy for treatment, which may include psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, hospitalization or medication. Psychiatrists must complete medical school, serve a residency and pass a medical exam. The BLS reports a median annual salary of $154,200 as of May 2008.
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