Highest Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling: 2-year Degrees That Pay Well for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Time and financial constraints should not become barriers to a successful career in healthcare. In today's dynamic medical landscape, numerous specialized roles command excellent salaries with just a two-year investment in education.

This article explores some of the highest-paying medical jobs achievable with an associate's degree, demonstrating that impactful and well-compensated careers are within closer reach than you might think.

Key Things You Should Know About the Highest Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling

Many 2-year medical careers are in high demand, leading to job security and competitive salaries. These jobs often require specialized technical skills, making them valuable and well-compensated.
Most high-paying roles require an Associate of Science (AS) degree, particularly in fields like radiologic technology, respiratory therapy, and dental hygiene. Hands-on clinical experience is essential, so look for programs with strong clinical rotations.
Salaries vary by location, experience, and certifications. Research specific areas and roles. Certifications can significantly boost earning potential and demonstrate expertise to employers.
While some coursework may be online, clinical components usually require in-person training. Advancement is possible through specialization, certifications, and further education (bridge programs).
Healthcare careers generally have strong job outlooks due to the aging population and increased demand for medical services. Many of these jobs offer good benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

List of the Highest Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling for 2025
Can you work in the medical field without a bachelor’s degree?
What is the quickest way to get a high-paying job in the medical field?
Can you get a medical associate degree completely online?
Can you get financial aid for associate degrees in healthcare?
Which healthcare degrees can be completed in under 2 years?
Are online associate degrees in healthcare a good option?
What should you consider when choosing a 2-year healthcare education program?
Are online healthcare programs as effective as traditional programs?
Is Accreditation a Critical Factor in Selecting a 2-Year Healthcare Program?
Are affordable online public health degrees a viable pathway to enhance healthcare careers?
Which healthcare careers with little schooling will grow the fastest?
Can Interdisciplinary Insights Elevate 2-Year Healthcare Careers?
What are the best states for high-paying 2-year medical careers?
What certifications boost salaries for 2-year healthcare degrees?
Can a 2-Year Healthcare Degree Lead to Administration Roles?
Other Things You Should Know About the Highest Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling

List of the Highest Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling for 2025

The following high-paying medical careers are attainable with a two-year associate's degree or less, focusing on roles that offer substantial compensation and career growth. It aims to guide prospective students and career changers toward lucrative opportunities in the healthcare sector that require minimal educational investment.

1. Radiation Therapist

Annual Salary: $98,300

Radiation therapists administer targeted radiation treatments to patients with cancer and other diseases, working closely with oncologists and medical physicists. They ensure accurate positioning, operate radiation equipment, and monitor patients for side effects. Most radiation therapists work in hospitals, cancer treatment centers, or outpatient clinics. A common path to this career is earning an Associate of Science (AS) in Radiation Therapy, which typically takes two years to complete.

2. Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Annual Salary: $92,500

Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radioactive drugs for imaging and therapeutic procedures, helping diagnose and treat diseases like cancer and heart conditions. They operate imaging equipment such as PET and SPECT scanners to capture detailed images of organs and tissues. They typically work in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and imaging centers. A two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Nuclear Medicine Technology is the most common educational route.

3. Dental Hygienist

Annual Salary: $88,530

Dental hygienists perform preventive oral care, including cleaning teeth, examining patients for signs of oral diseases, and educating them on proper dental hygiene. They use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar while assisting dentists with patient care. Most dental hygienists work in private dental offices, although some work in public health clinics and educational institutions. The standard degree for entry into the field is an Associate of Science (AS) in Dental Hygiene, which takes about two years to complete. For comparison, this salary is slightly higher than a BSN salary at more than $86,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

4. Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Annual Salary: $84,470

Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of the body’s internal structures, aiding physicians in diagnosing conditions related to the heart, abdomen, pregnancy, and more. They operate imaging equipment and guide patients through procedures. Sonographers are commonly employed in hospitals, outpatient care centers, and diagnostic laboratories. A two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Diagnostic Medical Sonography is the typical educational requirement for this role.

5. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist

Annual Salary: $83,740

MRI technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging scanners to capture detailed images of a patient’s internal organs and tissues. They ensure patients are properly positioned, monitor safety procedures due to the powerful magnets, and assist radiologists in image interpretation. MRI technologists primarily work in hospitals, imaging centers, and outpatient care facilities. The standard educational path is earning an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, which takes approximately two years.

6. Respiratory Therapist

Annual Salary: $77,960

Respiratory therapists assess, diagnose, and treat patients with breathing disorders such as asthma, COPD, and pneumonia. They manage ventilators, administer oxygen therapy, and educate patients on respiratory care. Most work in hospitals, particularly in intensive care units, emergency rooms, and pulmonary departments, though some are employed in home healthcare settings and outpatient clinics. The typical educational path is an Associate of Science (AS) in Respiratory Therapy, which takes about two years to complete.

7. Radiologic Technologist and Technician

Annual Salary: $73,410

Radiologic technologists and technicians operate X-rays, CT scans, and other imaging equipment to assist physicians in diagnosing injuries and diseases. They position patients correctly, follow strict radiation safety protocols, and ensure high-quality imaging results. They primarily work in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and outpatient care facilities. A two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Radiologic Technology is the standard degree for entering this field.

8. Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA)

Annual Salary: $67,010

Occupational therapy assistants help patients regain mobility and independence by assisting with therapeutic exercises and daily living activities under the supervision of occupational therapists. They work with individuals recovering from injuries, disabilities, or developmental conditions. OTAs are commonly employed in rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and hospitals, as well as in home healthcare settings. The required education for this role is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Occupational Therapy Assistant, which takes about two years to complete.

9. Cardiovascular Technologist and Technician

Annual Salary: $66,170

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians assist physicians in diagnosing and treating heart and vascular conditions using specialized equipment such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), echocardiograms, and cardiac catheterization tools. They monitor patients during procedures and ensure accurate test results. Most work in hospitals, cardiac catheterization labs, and diagnostic imaging centers. The typical educational route is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Cardiovascular Technology, which usually takes two years to complete.

10. Hearing Aid Specialist

Annual Salary: $58,670

Hearing aid specialists assess patients with hearing loss, conduct basic hearing tests, and fit, program, and maintain hearing aids. They educate patients on device usage and adjustments to improve auditory function. Most work in hearing clinics, audiology offices, and retail hearing aid centers. While some states require additional licensing, the common educational path is an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Hearing Instrument Science, which takes about two years to complete.

Can you work in the medical field without a bachelor’s degree?

Yes, you can work in the medical field without a bachelor's degree. Many healthcare careers only require a high school diploma, a certification, or an associate degree, allowing individuals to enter the workforce quickly. Jobs such as medical assistants, phlebotomists, dental hygienists, and radiologic technologists typically require just a certification or a two-year associate degree. In 2023, there were 783,900 medical assistants in the U.S. healthcare workforce.

Some healthcare positions, like medical billing and coding specialists or pharmacy technicians, can be pursued through short-term training programs or online courses. Many of these roles offer pathways to advancement through additional certifications or on-the-job experience. For those looking to further their education while working, some employers provide tuition reimbursement programs—making it easier to transition into higher-paying roles. As you consider future growth, a healthcare management and healthcare administration programs comparison can help identify which advanced degree may align best with your long-term career goals.

How many medical assistants were employed in 2023?

What is the quickest way to get a high-paying job in the medical field?

The quickest way to get a high-paying job in the medical field is to pursue a short-term healthcare certification or a two-year associate degree in an in-demand profession. These are also known as short degrees that pay well.

Careers such as radiologic technologist, dental hygienist, respiratory therapist, and diagnostic medical sonographer can be completed in about two years and offer salaries well above the national average. Some certifications, like phlebotomy technician, medical coding specialist, or certified nursing assistant (CNA), can be earned in just a few months, allowing you to enter the workforce quickly and gain experience while potentially pursuing further education.

To maximize earning potential, consider fields with high demand and career advancement opportunities. For example, becoming a surgical technologist or an occupational therapy assistant requires only an associate degree but offers strong salaries and job security. In 2024, surgical technologists had one of the largest staffing market sizes at 13.2%.

Many healthcare facilities offer on-the-job training, tuition reimbursement, or accelerated certification programs to help individuals move into higher-paying roles without the need for a four-year degree.

The following chart presents a detailed analysis of the allied healthcare services sector, which indicate areas of highest demand and employment opportunities. These figures provide valuable insight into the current landscape of allied health professions and their relative market presence.

Can you get a medical associate degree completely online?

It is important to understand that while some degrees for medical jobs with little schooling can be completed largely online, truly 100% online programs are less common, especially for those involving hands-on clinical skills. This is because some associates degrees online require clinical experience.

Some courses that can be taken completely online include:

Medical Administration and Health Information: Associate degrees in fields like medical administration, medical billing and coding, and health information technology often have significant online components. In these programs, coursework related to medical terminology, office management, and coding can be delivered online.
Health Sciences Foundations: Some programs offer online associate degrees in health sciences, which provide a foundational knowledge of biology, anatomy, and physiology. These can serve as a stepping stone to further education.

It is also important to know that online learning in medical fields has limitations.

Clinical Requirements: Many medical careers, such as radiologic technology, respiratory therapy, and physical therapy assisting, require hands-on clinical experience. These programs typically involve in-person clinical rotations at hospitals or other healthcare facilities.
Lab Work: Medical laboratory technology programs often require in-person lab work to learn how to analyze samples and perform diagnostic tests.

You can find associate degree programs with substantial online components, particularly in administrative and foundational health science areas. However, programs requiring clinical skills or lab work will likely have in-person requirements.

Can you get financial aid for associate degrees in healthcare?

Yes, you can get financial aid for associate degrees in healthcare. While 95% of full-time certified medical assistants (CMAs) receive a benefits package from their employer, these packages typically do not include scholarships for further education. However, financial aid is more commonly available to those pursuing graduate programs—these include individuals following the MHA degree career path. Here are some avenues to explore for sourcing financial aid:

Federal Financial Aid

Federal Pell Grants: These are grants that don't need to be repaid.
Federal Direct Loans: These are student loans with relatively low interest rates.
Federal Work-Study: This program provides part-time jobs for students to earn money for education expenses.

State Financial Aid

Many states offer their financial aid programs, including grants and scholarships. Check with your state's higher education agency for available opportunities.

Institutional Aid

Colleges and universities often provide financial aid packages to students, including scholarships and grants. Contact the financial aid office of the schools you're interested in for more information.

Scholarships

Scholarships are available for students pursuing healthcare careers. Some may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria.

Do certified medical assistants get employment benefits?

Which healthcare degrees can be completed in less than 2 years?

Several healthcare degrees and certifications can be completed in less than two years, allowing you to enter the medical field quickly while earning a competitive salary. Some of the best associate degree in 6 months online include:

Medical Assisting: Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices. Some programs offer fast-track options that can be completed in 9 to 18 months.
Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in preparing medications and managing inventory. Many states allow certification through short-term programs, and online options are available.
Phlebotomy Technician: Phlebotomists draw blood for lab tests and medical procedures. Many programs can be completed in just a few months, making it one of the fastest entry-level medical careers.
Medical Billing and Coding: This field involves processing healthcare claims and managing patient records. Many programs are available online and can be completed in less than a year.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): EMTs provide life-saving care in emergency situations. Basic EMT certification can be earned in as little as six months, while advanced levels may take up to a year.

Are online associate degrees in healthcare a good option?

By 2037, the projected shortage for dental hygienists is 29,740. This outlook offers an opportunity for those who want to start their medical careers by getting involved in allied services. However, aside from securing a degree, pursuing certifications is equally important. In 2024, 56% of institutions reported increasing the pay of employees who have earned professional certification.

Online associate degrees in healthcare can be a good option for certain individuals and career paths, but it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Potential Benefits

Flexibility and Convenience: Online programs offer greater flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and on your own schedule. This is particularly beneficial for working professionals or those with family obligations.
Accessibility: Online programs can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need to commute to a physical campus.
Cost-Effectiveness: Online programs may be less expensive than traditional on-campus programs, as they often eliminate costs associated with commuting, housing, and campus fees.
Self-Paced Learning: Many online programs allow students to progress at their own pace.

Potential Drawbacks

Lack of Hands-On Experience: Many healthcare careers require hands-on clinical experience, which may be difficult to obtain through online programs. While some programs such as online sonography programs, offer clinical rotations or internships, these may be limited or require travel.
Self-Discipline and Motivation: Online learning requires self-discipline and motivation, as students are responsible for managing their own time and staying on track.
Limited Interaction: Online programs may offer limited interaction with instructors and classmates, which makes it difficult to establish networks.
Accreditation Concerns: Any online program must be properly accredited. Without accreditation, it is impossible to get licensed and certified.

The chart below illustrates the prevalence of certificate requirements among organizations hiring for allied healthcare professions. This data underscores the value employers place on standardized credentials and specialized training within the allied health sector.

What should you consider when choosing a 2-year healthcare education program?

When evaluating 2-year healthcare programs, review key factors such as accreditation, curriculum rigor, clinical practicum opportunities, and student success outcomes, including job placement rates. Consider the value of flexible learning options, up-to-date industry certifications, and partnerships with local healthcare facilities, which can enhance real-world exposure and career readiness. Additionally, assess the total investment by comparing tuition fees and associated costs with potential salary outcomes. For example, some programs offer a low-cost medical coding and billing online program that balances affordability with robust practical training.

Are online healthcare programs as effective as traditional programs?

Evaluating the effectiveness of online healthcare programs is essential for ensuring quality learning and career preparedness. Many accredited programs integrate virtual simulations, remote training modules, and structured clinical placements to maintain rigorous standards. Students should review these offerings by examining program completion rates, job placement statistics, and the extent of hands-on training provided through affiliated healthcare facilities. For example, comparing curriculum benchmarks and technical support services in institutions, such as the online ultrasound tech school, can help determine if the online modality aligns with professional competencies required in the field.

Is Accreditation a Critical Factor in Selecting a 2-Year Healthcare Program?

Accredited programs validate the quality and rigor of a healthcare education, ensuring that graduates meet industry standards and remain competitive in the job market. Evaluating accreditation helps confirm that a program offers comprehensive curriculum, reliable clinical training, and eligibility for financial aid and certification exams. When considering online options and specialized certifications, prospective students should verify institutional approval by recognized bodies. For instance, explore accredited medical billing and coding certification online to make an informed decision.

Are affordable online public health degrees a viable pathway to enhance healthcare careers?

Professionals seeking to diversify their credentials and broaden their impact in healthcare can consider specialized programs that focus on public health management and community health strategies. These programs are structured to complement technical skills acquired in a 2-year degree by delivering flexible, industry-relevant training. For individuals aiming to further accelerate their career progression or pivot into leadership roles within community health initiatives, gaining competencies through online public health degrees can be an effective strategy.

Which healthcare careers with little schooling will grow the fastest?

The need for healthcare support professionals is expected to significantly increase, with a projected 39% rise in full-time equivalent positions from 2.42 million in 2022 to 3.37 million by 2037. This surge is attributed to demographic shifts, specifically the growing elderly population and longer life expectancies.

When considering medical jobs with little schooling and rapid growth, look for roles with high demand and relatively short training periods. Here are some of the fastest-growing healthcare careers that don't require a four-year degree:

Medical Assistants: These professionals perform administrative and clinical tasks in physicians' offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. The demand for medical assistants is strong due to the increasing number of patients and the need for efficient healthcare delivery.
Medical Administrative Assistants: With the increase of medical records, and the need for people to manage them, this career is growing rapidly. They handle tasks like scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and handling insurance claims.
Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs): PTAs work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses. The aging population and increasing prevalence of chronic conditions are driving the demand for PTAs. Physical therapy assistant programs online are available for those who want to study while keeping their current jobs.
Home Health Aides: These professionals provide personal care and support to individuals in their homes. The growing elderly population and the preference for home-based care are fueling the demand for home health aides.
Phlebotomists: These medical professionals draw blood for tests, transfusions, research, or blood donations. With the constant need for blood testing, this career is consistently growing.

What is the outlook for full-time healthcare support professionals?

Can Interdisciplinary Insights Elevate 2-Year Healthcare Careers?

Integrating non-medical skills—such as strategic planning, digital analytics, or operational management—can broaden career opportunities in healthcare leadership and innovation. Supplementing a clinical focus with interdisciplinary training, including targeted courses in management or even niche areas like sports management, empowers professionals to drive operational excellence and enhance patient engagement. For example, obtaining an affordable sports management online degree may offer critical insights into effective team dynamics and marketing strategies that are transferable to healthcare administration.

What are the best states for high-paying 2-year medical careers?

It's important to understand that "best" can depend on individual priorities, such as cost of living versus salary. However, here's a general overview of states that offer higher pay for medical jobs with little schooling, along with factors to consider:

California: California consistently ranks among the highest-paying states for many healthcare professions, including registered nurses and radiologic technologists. However, the high cost of living should be factored in.
Hawaii: Similar to California, Hawaii offers high salaries, but also has a high cost of living.
Oregon: Oregon is another state that offers competitive salaries for healthcare professionals.
Washington: Washington state, particularly the Seattle area, has a strong healthcare sector and offers good pay.
Massachusetts: Massachusetts, with its concentration of prestigious medical institutions, often offers high salaries.
Alaska: Alaska can offer very high wages, to attract workers to remote areas.

Factors influencing pay:

Cost of Living: States with higher costs of living often pay higher salaries to compensate.
Demand: Areas with a high demand for specific healthcare professionals tend to offer better pay.
Urban vs. Rural: Metropolitan areas often have higher salaries than rural areas.

For those seeking faster entry into high-paying roles, 1 year accelerated online nursing degree programs can be an efficient pathway, especially in states where demand and pay are high.

What certifications boost salaries for 2-year healthcare degrees?

It is true that certifications can significantly enhance earning potential in healthcare careers, especially for those with medical jobs with little schooling. Here's a breakdown of certifications that can boost salaries:

Certified Professional Coder (CPC): This certification for medical coding from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) is highly valued. It demonstrates expertise in medical coding, which is crucial for accurate billing and reimbursement. This certification can drastically increase earning potential.
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA): This certification for medical assisting from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) validates clinical skills and knowledge.
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA): Also from the NHA, this certification for medical administration focuses on administrative skills, which are essential in healthcare settings.
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST): This certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is highly regarded among surgical technologists.
Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS): This certification demonstrates proficiency in managing electronic health records, which is increasingly important in healthcare.
Certifications from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT): While an associate's degree such as online radiology tech programs is typically required, additional certifications in specific imaging modalities (e.g., MRI, CT) can lead to higher pay.
Certifications from the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI): Offers relevant certifications for cardiovascular technologists. Certifications in areas like echocardiography or vascular technology can significantly boost earning potential.

Can a 2-Year Healthcare Degree Lead to Administration Roles?

Healthcare positions earned with a 2-year degree can serve as a foundation for transitioning into administrative functions within healthcare organizations. Targeted training, on-the-job leadership experiences, and supplemental certifications may enable professionals to move beyond clinical roles into supervisory or managerial capacities. This pathway often involves developing skills in operations, team coordination, and workflow optimization. For further insights on compensation trends and career progression, review whether does healthcare administration pay well.

Here’s What Healthcare Professionals Have to Say About Their 2-Year Degrees

I never thought a two-year degree could lead to such a rewarding career. As a radiological technologist, I'm not only financially secure, but I also play a crucial role in patient care every day. Seeing the relief on a patient's face after a successful scan makes all the hard work worthwhile. Sandra

The market demand for surgical technologists is real! I quickly found a high-paying position after graduating. What surprised me most was the sense of teamwork and the immediate impact I have in the operating room. It's exhilarating and fulfilling to be part of such a vital process. Michael

Choosing a career in dental hygiene was the best decision I made. The flexibility and earning potential are fantastic, and I love helping people achieve healthy smiles. Knowing I'm making a tangible difference in someone's life is incredibly satisfying, and I'm so grateful for the opportunities this allied health path has given me. Analin

Key Findings

Healthcare support professional roles are projected to increase by 39%, from 2.42 million full-time equivalents in 2022 to 3.37 million by 2037.
A projected shortage of 29,740 dental hygienists by 2037 presents significant career opportunities in allied health.
Professional certifications are increasingly valued, with 56% of institutions reporting pay increases for certified employees in 2024.
95% of full-time Certified Medical Assistants receive benefits, but these typically do not include educational scholarships.
While some medical associate degrees offer online components, fully online programs are rare, especially for roles requiring practical clinical training.
Surgical technologists and radiological/MRI/CT technologists show strong market demand, with market sizes of 13.2% and 18.2% respectively in 2024.
The U.S. healthcare workforce included 783,900 medical assistants in 2023.

Other Things You Should Know About the Highest Paying Medical Jobs with Little Schooling

Are there any high-paying medical jobs without licensing requirements?

Yes, there are several high-paying medical jobs that do not require a state license. Careers such as medical billing and coding specialists, healthcare administrators, and medical equipment sales representatives offer competitive salaries without the need for state-mandated licensing. While some employers may prefer certifications—such as the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) for medical coding or Certified Medical Reimbursement Specialist (CMRS)—these are typically optional and not required by law. Additionally, roles like clinical research coordinators and pharmaceutical sales representatives can provide high earnings without requiring a medical license, though some may require industry-specific training or certification for career advancement.

Can you advance in the medical field with only a 2-year degree?

Yes, you can advance in the medical field with only a 2-year degree by gaining experience, obtaining specialized certifications, or pursuing higher-level roles within your field. Many associate degree holders, such as radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, and dental hygienists, can increase their earning potential through advanced certifications or by specializing in high-demand areas. Some healthcare professionals with an associate degree can move into supervisory, management, or training roles with additional on-the-job experience. Additionally, many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs that allow workers to pursue further education, such as bridging an associate degree into a bachelor’s for greater career advancement opportunities.

What are the best career advancement options for 2-year healthcare degrees?

Career advancement for 2-year healthcare degrees often hinges on specialization and continuous learning. Obtaining advanced certifications in niche areas, like MRI for radiologic technologists or critical care for respiratory therapists, significantly boosts earning potential and opens doors to higher-level roles. Gaining extensive experience allows progression into supervisory or management positions, such as lead technician or department supervisor. Furthermore, incremental education through bridge programs, online courses, or part-time studies enables individuals to pursue bachelor's degrees or higher, expanding their career trajectory. Coupled with networking and professional development, these strategies provide a clear path for advancement beyond the initial 2-year degree.

Do 2-year healthcare degrees lead to jobs with good benefits?

Yes, 2-year healthcare degrees often lead to jobs with good benefits, particularly in stable institutions like hospitals and established clinics. Common benefits include comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), paid time off (vacation, sick leave), retirement plans (401(k) or similar), and sometimes tuition reimbursement for further education. Roles like radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, and dental hygienists, which typically require associate's degrees, are often found in environments offering these robust benefit packages, reflecting the essential nature of their work and the competitive healthcare job market.