Although the general consensus is that the medical profession is made up of only clinical career options, there are many jobs behind-the-scenes as well. With the healthcare industry being complex, there are numerous essential roles that bring cohesion to the field. By pursuing a Bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, there are many satisfying entry-level jobs available within the industry that are not necessarily clinical in nature.

Resource: Top 10 Best Online Healthcare Administration Degree Programs

Private Practice Office Manager

medical office manager is responsible for all operations in a doctor's office. This individual keeps everyday activities running proficiently and must uncover ways to decrease operational costs. The most important role of an office manager is supervising the staff, including the receptionist, medical biller, and nurses. This professional ensures top patient services as well.

This profession requires resourcefulness and efficiency. It is necessary to have knowledge in billing, coding, collections, maintenance of medical records, and appointment management. To keep the office organized, it is vital to have strong communication skills and always pay attention to details.

Nursing Home Administrative Assistant

As more and more of the "baby-boomer" generation requires care in nursing homes, there is a greater need for administrative assistants in these facilities. These individuals have operational duties around the office. They help plan and direct the administrative part of the facility's programs and act as liaisons between staff, patients, family members, and doctors.

Administrative assistants make sure all services are in compliance with state and federal guidelines and professional standards. They must keep track of inventory, order supplies, and distribute goods through the proper channels. These workers help the Administrator plan the budget and monitor staff operations. It is a smart entry-level job for anyone with a Bachelor's degree in healthcare administration.

Medical Reimbursement Specialist

medical reimbursement specialist works with other healthcare professionals to help patients schedule medical bill payments. They also help with the process of pharmaceutical reimbursements. These reimbursements include the money received by insured patients after buying particular prescriptions.

These specialists are commonly employed by healthcare organizations or insurance companies. They work beside doctors and nurses in a supportive administrative role. Their most important duties are working with insurance and billing companies to determine the payment methods of patients. Inside an office, they must manage financial and medical records, transcribe reports, greet patients, and schedule appointments.

Healthcare Consultant

healthcare consultant offers advice to businesses that provide medical services. This professional gathers and analyzes data and presents the findings to clients so that care can be prioritized. Besides giving advice regarding care delivery, this expert may help with insurance compliance and patient confidentiality. A consultant may suggest how to address malpractice cases as well.

A healthcare consultant must use strong communications skills to identify and resolve problems. He or she must comprehend industry-specific guidelines as well. Many doctors will hire a consultant when starting a new practice so that the process is completed efficiently and provides top patient satisfaction. This career is an excellent way to participate in the medical field without working directly with patients.

Healthcare Human Resource Manager

Every healthcare facility must be staffed with appropriate personnel. A healthcare HR manager selects specific candidates to fill all positions and advises management about pay and benefits for employees. When disputes arise, this professional addresses issues between management and staff and uncovers suitable solutions.

A human resource manager in this field must extend his or her duties to include researching rules and regulations regarding its employees. Oftentimes, this manager must work with attorneys who develop legal contracts. This professional must understand relevant statues, including The Medicare and Medicaid Patient Protection Act of 1987 so that a facility is not subjected to violation penalties or employee disputes. A bachelor's degree in healthcare administration will prepare a candidate for the skills necessary in this profession.

There are many fulfilling career opportunities open to candidates with degrees in healthcare administration. The above jobs are just a sampling of the choices individuals following this path of employment can select and enjoy future advancements. Although some require behind-the-scenes duties, they play vital roles in the medical industry.

Additional Resources: 

Top 20 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Informatics Degree Programs

Top 10 Online Master's in Public Health Administration (MPH) Degree Programs