Healthcare is the fastest growing industry in the U.S. and it’s not hard to see why. As the past year has shown us, people who work in the field are essential workers. They keep us safe in both the best and worst of times. Want to join their ranks? These are the top 5 reasons to go into healthcare:

1. You Can Make a Difference in Healthcare

If you want a career where you can help others, there’s no place better than healthcare. Whether you’re a nurse who cares for patients, a medical assistant who aides doctors during procedures or a medical office administrative assistant who ensures a facility runs smoothly behind the scenes, you’ll have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. And that means a lot for patients—and you! Helping others gives you purpose and studies show that when you find meaning in your work, you feel more satisfied with your job.

2. The Healthcare Industry Continues to Grow

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the fastest growing sector of the economy is healthcare and social assistance. In fact, five of the industries that will grow the most quickly over the next decade are in this sector. What does this mean for you? A better job outlook. With more positions available, you’ll have better chances to find a job and build a career.

3. There’s a Position for Everyone

You don’t need to spend years and years in medical school to work in healthcare. With nine to 15 months of training, you could be prepared for careers such as Medical Assistant, Dental Assistant, or Practical Nurse. There are also many different facilities, departments, and specialties where you might find work. Does blood make you queasy? There may still be a place for you. You could work in medical billing and coding, office management, or information technology, which are all important aspects of healthcare administration.

4. You Can Work in Different Locations

Hospitals and health facilities are located in every state, and many cities and towns. If you need to move, you can take your skills with you! You also have choices about the kinds of facilities. Hospitals are common sites for healthcare workers, but so are doctor’s offices, group practices, outpatient clinics, ambulatory surgical centers, and even health insurance agencies.

5. You’ll Always Be Busy with a Healthcare Career

No matter where you work or what your role is, you’ll have plenty to do. For example, if you work as a Medical Assistant, you may prepare exam rooms, greet patients, file paperwork, assist the physician during a procedure, and order new supplies all in one day! If you like to stay busy and handle a variety of tasks, healthcare may be the perfect field for you.

Are you ready to start a new career? At Porter and Chester Institute in Connecticut and Massachusetts, we offer training programs in Dental Assisting, Medical Assisting, and Practical Nursing. You’ll learn from industry professionals in labs that simulate a real-world setting, and you’ll get out in the real world through our externship program. Fill out the form to request more information.