Being an introvert doesn’t mean you can’t find a great career in healthcare. In fact, some introverts naturally excel at jobs that require meticulous attention to detail and an analytical approach. Introverts can also be extremely empathetic, making them great for positions in patient care.
If you’re an introvert looking for a career in healthcare, you may want to avoid any high-energy positions that require you to make quick decisions. For example, a position as a nurse in an emergency room may cause you to feel anxious and stressed, where you would thrive in a position as a school nurse at an elementary school.
If you identify as a highly sensitive person, you may want to avoid these jobs.
It is important to consider your unique personality and determine what environments will feel the most comfortable for you. That way, you can find a career that fits your personality and lifestyle needs.
Jobs for Introverts in the Healthcare Setting
If you’re an introvert curious about a career in healthcare, here are some great options to consider:
Radiologic technologist (x-ray tech)
Radiologic technologists use imaging equipment to help diagnose and treat diseases in patients. You’ll have the flexibility to work a variety of shifts and hours. Depending on the employer, you may be able to choose your own schedule. To work as a radiologic technologist, you will need a degree in radiologic technology. You’ll also need to complete an undergraduate program and you will most likely need to sit for the certification exam in your state.
Working as a “rad tech” can be an incredibly rewarding career. Typically, you won’t have to interact with large groups of people. Depending on the environment you choose to work in, you may even be able to work by yourself. You’ll still be expected to work with patients and provide good quality care. However, you’ll have less pressure on you to make quick decisions. You can work in a small hospital, an urgent care clinic, or an independent doctor’s office.
Why this career is great for introverts: Much of your day will involve working with patients, but you’ll have less pressure on you to make quick decisions. You can work in a small or large hospital setting. You can also structure your position in a way that works for you.
Radiation Therapist
A radiation therapist works with patients who are being treated for cancer, and they also work with other patients who require radiation treatments. Radiation therapists typically work in a healthcare setting, such as a hospital during regular business hours. In order to become a radiation therapist, you’ll need a minimum of an associate’s degree in radiologic technology, and you will need to pass the board exam.
Working as a radiation therapist requires great attention to detail. You will also need to be empathetic and compassionate towards patients, and you’ll need to be able to troubleshoot equipment when needed. In addition to treating patients, you may also be responsible for scheduling patients and performing clerical work. Shadowing an oncology clinic is a great way to observe the workflow and gain a more thorough understanding of this career.
Why this career is great for introverts: You can work during regular business hours and use innovative medical equipment.
Medical billing specialist
A medical billing specialist works in the healthcare industry by processing medical claims and sending invoices. They help patients gain maximum reimbursement for their healthcare expenses. To become a medical billing specialist, you’ll need a degree in healthcare or a related field. Some employers may also require you to be certified. You may also benefit from previous experience as a medical coder or office assistant. Some companies may even allow you to work remotely or from home.
Why this career is great for introverts: You may have the opportunity to work from home.
Home health aide
A home health aide provides personal and non-medical care to patients in their homes. They may also help with household tasks, such as cooking or cleaning. You’ll need to complete some training before you start working independently, but the education you’ll need is often minimal. You may even be able to get your training through an apprenticeship.
You’ll need to have compassion and empathy, but you won’t need to be highly skilled to become a home health aide. This means you’ll be able to work with different kinds of patients and it can also be a great job for those looking to work part-time.
The amount of stress that comes with working as a home health aide depends on who your patients are. Some patients may require more attention than others. In order to succeed as a home health aide, you’ll still need to stay organized and be able to work independently. This is a great job for people who prefer to work with patients one-on-one. You’ll be creating strong relationships with patients and making a difference in someone’s life who really needs it.
Why this career is great for introverts: You can work one-on-one with patients and make a difference in their lives. Minimal education is needed, making it a great entry-level job.
Dental assistant
A dental assistant helps the dentist perform basic tasks, such as taking x-rays and preparing treatment rooms for patients. This is a great entry-level career for someone looking to get their feet wet in healthcare. You can work in a private dental office or join the team at a chain company.
If you are looking for a more advanced career, you may also want to consider being a dental hygienist. Some employers and states require formal education to work as a dental assistant. You’ll want to check and see what the requirements are for the state you wish to work in.
Why this career is great for introverts: You can work at your own pace and there are great opportunities for advancement (continuing on to be a dental hygienist). You can also work in a private dental office.
Diagnostic medical sonographer
A diagnostic medical sonographer conducts patient examinations. You’ll work with patients before, during and after procedures, and you’ll also work with doctors, radiologists and other members of the medical team.
You can expect to complete a formal education in order to become a diagnostic medical sonographer. You’ll typically need to complete an associate’s degree program in sonography or diagnostic medical sonography, and you may also need to sit for certification in your state. This is a respectable career that will allow you to work in a variety of settings. You can work in a private doctor’s office or a larger medical center.
You’ll also need to have a compassionate and empathetic nature, as well as a high level of integrity. This is a job that demands strong communication skills on your part, as you’ll need to convey images and information to colleagues. Some diagnostic medical sonographers also need to be able to develop and maintain good relationships with patients.
Why this career is great for introverts: You can work independently and this career offers many opportunities for advancement.
Patient services representative
A patient services representative works in a hospital and offers assistance to patients and families. This is a good job for someone who is patient, empathetic, and good at listening and troubleshooting. To qualify for this job, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED. You may also need some on-the-job training.
Depending on the hospital, your tasks may vary. You’ll help patients with billing and insurance questions, as well as scheduling appointments. This is a job that requires a lot of patience and understanding. You’ll also need to be dependable and trustworthy, as you will have access to confidential information about patients.
This is another healthcare career that allows you to work one-on-one with patients and their families. With this job, you’ll also be able to work in different settings and you can choose where and when you want to work.
Why this career is great for introverts: It’s an entry-level job that allows you to work in a variety of settings with different schedule options. You can choose which hours will work best for you. You’ll also be able to get started quickly, and it doesn’t require much education.
Surgical technician
A surgical technician works in an operating room, assisting during surgeries. You’ll be responsible for getting equipment together and assisting the surgeon during procedures. Before you can start this job, you have to complete an associate’s degree program. You’ll also need to attend on-the-job training before you begin working independently.
This can be an exciting job as you will have the opportunity to witness procedures and surgeries in the hospital.
Why this career is great for introverts: Some people may prefer this type of work over working with patients directly. Patients are typically not awake, as they are undergoing surgery.
Medical transcriptionist
As a medical transcriptionist, you’ll listen to physician dictations and produce medical reports. You’ll be part of a team made up of physicians, medical assistants and other healthcare professionals. Typically, you will need formal education to work as a medical transcriptionist.
You will also need computer skills and an understanding of medical terminology. You should also have good English grammar skills. Many companies may also offer on-the-job training. This is a good option if you are interested in working in healthcare, but not directly with patients.
Why this career is great for introverts: You will be working primarily on the computer and you may be able to set your own schedule. There is no direct patient care involved.
Medical coder
A medical coder reviews patient charts and assigns a code for each procedure or visit to a physician. This code is used to determine what each patient visit or treatment will cost. You’ll likely need to complete an associate’s degree program to work as a medical coder. You may also need to take courses in anatomy and medical terminology as part of your degree program.
You’ll probably start out by working with a more experienced coder and attending training sessions. Then, you’ll work independently. This is a job that requires being detail-oriented and following strict guidelines for coding procedures and diagnoses. Medical coders work in hospitals, outpatient clinics and private doctor’s offices. You may also work in insurance companies or medical billing services.
Why this career is great for introverts: You can work independently at your own pace. You may also be able to set your own hours, depending on the job and employer. Most medical coding jobs are full-time positions.
Veterinary technician or assistant
A veterinary technician works in a vet’s office and helps care for animals who are sick, injured or undergoing surgery. You’ll need to complete an associate’s degree program before you start this job. You may also be required to sit for certification in your state, which typically involves taking classes and passing an exam.
In this job, you’ll need to have a high level of patience and understanding. You will also need physical strength and stamina, since you may need to restrain animals who are sick or injured.
Some veterinary technicians and assistants may also need to perform laboratory tests and prepare medications and other solutions. Many work full-time with some night or weekend hours. This is a good job for an introvert who may prefer to work with animals instead of people.
Why this career is great for introverts: You can work in several settings and with animals instead of people. Most veterinary positions are full-time positions; however, there may be some opportunities for part-time work.
Medical laboratory assistant
A medical lab assistant helps with the day-to-day operations of a medical laboratory. You’ll typically need to complete an associate’s degree program before you start working in this field. However, some companies may accept a high school diploma and provide training.
You’ll need to be detail-oriented and follow strict safety guidelines, such as those that involve using sterile techniques when collecting specimens. You may also need computer skills and knowledge of medical laboratory equipment.
Why this career is great for introverts: You can work independently in a laboratory instead of at the bedside caring for patients. Most positions are full-time with some day and night hours.
Pharmacy technician
A pharmacy technician typically works in a drug store. Depending on the employer, you’ll be responsible for filling prescriptions, billing, and providing customer service. You’ll need to complete an associate’s degree program before you can start this job. In addition, most states require you to become certified. This involves passing an exam. You’ll likely work in a team with pharmacy staff, pharmacists and other technicians.
While you may not be required to make decisions on-the-spot, this can still be a hectic job, as many of the prescriptions you fill need to be ready on time.
Why this career is great for introverts: Most positions are full-time with some day and night hours. You won’t be required to make quick decisions under pressure.
Dietitian
A dietitian works with people to improve their eating habits, typically in hospitals or health care clinics. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nutrition or food science. Working as a dietitian can be emotionally demanding, as you’ll have to deal with some complex health problems. You may also need to work with people who are suffering through stressful personal problems.
Why this career is great for introverts: You may be able to work independently in an office, or in a small hospital seeing patients one-on-one. You’ll be making a positive difference in people’s lives.
Licensed practical nurse
A licensed practical nurse, or LPN, provides hands-on care to patients. You’ll be responsible for monitoring patients’ conditions and doing basic procedures, such as taking patients’ blood pressure and giving out medication. Contrary to popular belief, introverts can be great nurses! It all depends on what environment you choose to work in. This is not a job for introverts who need to spend most of their time at home alone in peace.
You’ll need to complete an associate’s degree program. You’ll also need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN).
Why this career is great for introverts: Depending on where you want to work, you may be able to choose a position that fits your personal schedule. You can work in a small doctor’s office, a school, or even explore some home health options.
The medical field is always in need of compassionate, caring people who are willing to go the extra mile. If you like helping others and are seeking a stable career, then healthcare might be a great option for you.
Are you an introvert? Are there any other healthcare jobs for introverts that I missed? Let me know in the comments below! If you are looking to help boost your career search, check out these positive affirmations for landing your dream job.
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