Health Care Careers

Listed below are some of the careers available in health care today, along with the average salary ranges (July 2005 figures), the type of educational requirements and the list of Oklahoma schools that provide a certification or degree for that particular career. In addition to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, and Workforce Oklahoma Occupational Outlook 2008, (Click on LMI Publications and go to Workforce OK Occupational Outlook) the following books are recommended as additional resources: "270 Ways To Put Your Talent to Work in the Health Field," published by the National Health Council; and Health Care Job Explosion! High Growth Health Care Careers and Job Locator, 3rd edition revised 2001", by Dennis V. Damp.

To explore resources for funding your health care education, click this link. To connect with hospitals that support health career development, click here.

Clinic and Laboratory


Cytotechnologist

Cytology is the study of the structure and the function of cells. Performs technical and analytical tests consisting of microscopic examination of body tissue directed at early detection of cancer cells and other diseases.


Salary Range
: Minimum - $23,712.00 ($11.40/hr); maximum - $56,908.80 ($27.36/hr)

Training: 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s): See your counselor regarding available programs.

Histotechnologist

Prepares microscope slides of human tissue for pathological examination.


Salary Range
: Minimum - $25,188.80 ($12.11/hr); maximum - $38,792.00 ($18.65/hr)

Training: 2-year program

School(s): Rose State College, Midwest City


Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

Conducts routine tests in clinical laboratories for use in treatment and diagnosis of disease and performs related duties; urinalysis, complete blood counts, prepares media, some microbiology, prepares formulas and processes; may also perform venipuncture on patients of all ages. Requires certification by ASCP or AMT.


Salary Range:
Minimum - $26,561.60 ($12.77/hr); maximum - $40,164.80 ($19.31/hr)

Training: 2-year associate degree

School(s): Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, Miami; Rose State College, Midwest City; Seminole State College, Seminole; Southwestern Oklahoma State Univ., Sayre Campus; Tulsa Community College, Tulsa

Medical Technologist

Performs skilled, specialized work in the conduct of all phases of clinical laboratory technology, including hematology, chemistry, bacteriology and blood banking. Makes analytical diagnoses and prepares reports to aid in the treatment of disease. Requires technologist designation by ASCP, AMT, HHS or ISCLT.


Salary Range:
Minimum - $31,636.80 ($15.21/hr); maximum - $48,984.00 ($23.55/hr)

Training: 96 college credit hours (including 16 hrs in chemistry; 16 hrs in biology, and 4 hrs in college algebra) and complete hospital internship. (Student will end up with a baccalaureate degree.)

Hospitals offering internship: Comanche County, Lawton; Muskogee Regional Medical Center, Muskogee; Saint Francis Hospital, Tulsa; Valley View Regional Hospital, Ada.


Phlebotomist

Collects blood specimens and body fluids according to assignment and requisition. Performs some technical and clerical duties as assigned. High school graduate with formal technical training.

Salary Range: Minimum - $16,660.80 ($8.01/hr); maximum - $25,542.40 ($12.28/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Diagnostic Care

Cardiac Monitor Technician

Primary duty is the cardiac monitoring of patients on a telemetry unit. Works under the direction of an RN.


Starting Salary Range:
Minimum - $16,556.80 ($7.96/hr); maximum - $24,564.80 ($11.81/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Ultrasound Technologist

(Diagnostic Medical Sonographer) Performs ultrasound procedures at a technical level not requiring constant supervision. Performs a variety of examinations to produce ultrasound tracings; applies prescribed methods of ultrasound energy. Training as a registered technologist or a registered diagnostic medical sonographer.


Salary Range:
Minimum - $41,849.60 ($20.12/hr); maximum - $64.604.80 ($31.06/hr) (Salary listed for 4-year baccalaureate degree.)

Training: 1-year certificate program or 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s):Consult your local technology center. Tulsa Community College, Tulsa (1 year; )University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City (4 years)


EKG Technician

(Electrocardiographic Technician, ECG Technician) Performs technical work in the operation of electrocardiography equipment. Takes tracing, cleans equipment, and mounts and files reports.

Salary Range: Minimum - $17,638.40 ($8.48/hr); maximum - $26,915.20 ($12.94/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Francis Tuttle Technology Center, OKC


Electroencephalographic Technician

(EEG Technician)Measures differences in electrical potential between various areas of the brain by means of an electroencephalograph impulse frequency.


Salary Range:
Minimum - $21,278.40 ($10.23/hr); maximum - $34,236.80 ($16.46/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Francis Tuttle Tech. Center, OKC

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Performs technical work in diagnostic test involving radioisotope material. Assists physicians in preparing therapeutic dosage; and instructs medical radiological students. Requirements: A.R.R.T. registered and completion of one-year course in Nuclear Medicine Technology.

Salary Range: Minimum - $41,475.20 ($19.94/hr); maximum - $64,396.80 ($30.96/hr)

Training: 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s): University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, OKC

Radiographer

Operates and maintains equipment and takes radiographs of various portions of the body to assist radiologist in detection of foreign bodies and diagnosis of disease and injuries. Positions patients under machine and regulates controls. May perform x-ray examinations under sterile, surgical conditions. May also process exposed film by automatic developer or hand tank solution.


Salary Range:
Minimum - $30,326.40 ($14.58/hr); maximum - $45,905.60 ($22.07/hr)

Training: Technology centers; 2-year accreditedprograms where academic course work and clinical experience are combined.

School(s): Technology Centers: Autry Tech. Center, Enid; Great Plains Tech. Center, Lawton; Meridian Tech. Center, Stillwater; Metro Tech. Center - South Bryant Campus, OKC; Tulsa Tech. Center - Lemley Campus. Colleges: Bacone College, Muskogee; Rose State College, Midwest City; Tulsa Community College. Tulsa Universities: 4-year program Univ. of Okla. College of Allied Health, OKC; Southwestern Oklahoma State Univ., Sayre Campus.

CT Technologist

(C.T. Scanner, Radiologic Special Procedures Technologist, MRI Technician) Performs computerized tomographic procedures for the diagnosis of disease and injury using a CT scanning device according to protocols established by radiologists. Must be registered by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists (ARRT).

Salary Range: Minimum - $35,464.00 ($17.05/hr); maximum - $55,016.00 ($26.45/hr)

Training: Radiographer, plus additional on-the job training for a registered radiographer.

School(s): Western Oklahoma State College, Altus

Dietetic Care

Dietitian

Directs, supervises and coordinates the functions and activities of the dietary office. Responsible for coordinating diet adaptions with house menus and conducts diet consultations with patients, nursing and medical personnel. Requires completion of ADA dietetics internship. Bachelor's degree from an accredited school with a major in nutrition preferred.

Salary Range: Minimum - $33,196.80 ($15.96); maximum - $51,916.80 ($23.15/hr)

Training: 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s): Langston University, Langston; Oklahoma State University, Stillwater; University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, OKC

Dietetic Technician

Provides services in assigned areas of food service management, teaches principles of food and nutrition, and provides dietary consultation, under the direction of the dietitian.

Salary Range: N/A

Training: 2-year associate degree

Schools: University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond; Langston University, Langston; University of Okla. Health Sciences Ctr., OKC; Oklahoma State University, Stillwater; Northeastern State University, Tahlequah

Food Service Supervisor

Supervises and coordinates activities of kitchen workers who prepare and cook foods for patients, staff, and visitors.

Salary Range: Maximum - $21,028.80 ($10.11/hr); maximum - $32,531.20 ($15.64/hr)

Training: Technology center programs in supervision of food service operations.

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Direct Care

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - Basic

Assists professional emergency room personnel in the administration of emergency room treatment. Administers first aid treatment and transports patients.

Salary Range: Minimum - $16,660.80 ($8.01/hr); maximum - $25,500.80 ($12.26/hr)

Training: Certified after passing the National Registry Exam for EMT Basic

Consult your local technology center or community college, or try this helpful link: http://www.oemta.com/emslinks.htm

Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic

Administers initial emergency treatment at emergency scene. Takes and records patient's vital signs. Transports sick or injured patients to the emergency room. Observes and records patient's condition and reactions to drugs and/or treatment while on route to the emergency room. Requirements: Certified after passing the National Registry Exam or E.M.T. Paramedic.

Salary Range: Minimum - $22,817.60 ($10.97/hr); maximum - $34,340.80 ($16.51/hr)

Training: Certification

Consult your local technology center or community college.
http://www.oemta.com/emslinks.htm

Licensed Practical Nurse

Under the direction of a registered nurse or team leader, provides general nursing care to patients. Attends to the general health care and comfort of the patient; observes and records treatment and patient progress and reports to supervisor patient's condition or reaction. Administers prescribed medications. Requirements: Licensed Practical Nurse in the State of Oklahoma.

Salary Range: Minimum - $22,713.60 ($10.92/hr); maximum - $33,779.20 ($16.24/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Nurse Assistant - Advanced Unlicensed Assistant

(Created by Oklahoma Law in 2000.) Under the supervision of the registered nurse, performs direct patient care to include activities of daily living. Conducts basic diagnostic testing. Performs selected sterile collection and procedures.

Salary Range: Minimum - $17,7784.00 ($8.55/hr); maximum - $25,833.60 ($12.42/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Metro-Tech, OKC; Francis Tuttle Tech. Center, OKC

Home Health Aide

Provides personal care, observation and reporting of health condition. Assists patients in all activities of daily living/personal care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.

Salary Range: Minimum - $14,892.80 ($7.16/hr); maximum - $21,403.20 ($10.29/hr)

Training: Certification

Consult your local technology center.

Nursing Assistant

Responsible for performing simple specified nursing duties related to patient care, such as bathing, vital signs, enemas, non-sterile surgical dressings, and patient observation. Assists in preparation of supplies and helps maintain cleanliness and order on the nursing unit. Entry level job requiring some formal training or related experience.

Salary Range: Minimum - $15,392.00 ($7.40/hr); maximum - $22,838.00 ($10.98/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Registered Nurse

Provides professional nursing care by utilizing the nursing process to care for patients within an assigned unit. Coordinates care planning with other disciplines. Requirements: Registered Nurse in the State of Oklahoma.

Salary Range: Minimum - $34,756.80 ($16.71/hr); maximum - $53,310.40 ($25.63/hr)

Training: 2-year associate degree (4 semesters); or 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s): Consult the college or university of your choice for information.

Surgical Technician, Certified

(Operating Room Technician, Scrub Technician) Under supervision of the operating room staff nurse: works with the surgeon, in preparing the operating room, sterilizing supplies and equipment, preparing the operative site and draping the patient. Handles instruments, sponges, sutures, catheters, drains and dressings to insure asepsis and safety to the patient. Requirements: Certified as a Surgical Technologist by the Association of Surgical Technologists, Inc.

Salary Range: Minimum - $23,857.60 ($11.47/hr); maximum - $36,108.80 ($17.36/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center. Autry Tech. Center, Enid; Canadian Valley Tech. Center, Chickasha; Great Plains Tech. Center, Lawton; Metro Tech - Springlake, OKC; Moore-Norman Tech. Center, Norman; Red River Tech. Center, Duncan; Southern Oklahoma Tech. Center, Ardmore; Wes Watkins Tech. Center, Wetumka; Tulsa Tech. Center - Lemley Campus, Tulsa

Health Information Management


Head of Health Information Management

Supervises departmental personnel involved in maintaining permanent medical records of all provider organization patients. Primarily responsible for coding and abstracting diagnoses, treatments and other information from patient records. Ensures that the provider organization's medical records are maintained in compliance with all accreditation and governmental regulatory agencies. Assists provider organization staff by providing recorded medical information upon request. Typically reports to President/CEO or VP level.

Salary Range: Minimum - $20,000.00; maximum, $125,000.00

Training: Bachelor's degree in Health Information Management; Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) credential

Schools: East Central University, Ada; Southwestern Oklahoma State University, Weatherford

American Health Information Management Association Web site: http://www.ahima.org


Medical Librarian

Performs professional reference services through on-line computer software and manual searches. Ensures that multiple medical databases are correct and operational. Requires a Master's Degree in Library Science.

Salary Range: Minimum - $32,281.60 ($15.52/hr); maximum - $50,128.00 ($24.10/hr)

Training: Master's degree in library science

School(s): University of Oklahoma, Norman

Coder

Using ICD-9-CM standards, codes and abstracts medical records for reimbursement purposes.

Salary Range: $24,107.20 ($11.59hr); $37,232.00 ($17.90/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Business programs at Technology Centers, Business Colleges (1-year certificate program)

Registered Health Information Technician

Assists in the supervision of the medical records office and participates in the compilation and maintenance of hospital medical records; assists in preparing statistical reports; codes diseases and operations; maintains indices and takes records to court; prepares reports and correspondence.

Salary Range: N/A

Training: 2-year program

Schools: Rose State College, Midwest City; Tulsa Community College, Tulsa


Medical Transcriptionist

Using transcribing machine and keyboard, transcribes medical, technical, and personal patient information, including admitting notes, history and physical examinations, operative notes, cystoscopic reports, discharge summaries and consultation reports. Checks and distributes reports to physicians and patient records.

Salary Range: Minimum - $18,158.40 ($8.73/hr); maximum - $27,705.60 ($13.32/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Medical Secretarial

Admitting Clerk

Interviews incoming patients; types information on admitting forms; may prepare identification bracelets for patients; explains hospital regulations; and assigns patients to rooms based on the nature of the illness and the type of accommodations available. May assist in insurance matters.

Salary Range: Minimum - $16,640.00 ($8.00/hr); maximum - $25,126.40 ($12.08/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Medical Assistant

Provides a basic level of care and treatment to patients. Assists with vitals, patient history, charting and simple patient procedures.

Salary Range: Minimum $17,430.40 ($8.38/hr); maximum $25,729.60 ($12.37/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center. Autry Tech. Center, Enid; Central Tech, Drumright; Francis Tuttle Tech. Center, OKC; Metro Tech. – Springlake, OKC; Moore-Norman Tech. Center, Norman; Pioneer Tech. Center, Ponca City; Tulsa Tech. Center – Lemley Campus, Tulsa; Western Tech. Center, Sayre

Colleges: Tulsa Community College (Certification and 2-year associate degree available.)

Medical Staff Coordinator

Serves as the liaison between the medical staff and all hospital departments to coordinate and provide overall continuity of medical staff activities. Also responsible for the process of medical staff credentialling, and maintenance of all records related to credentialling.

Salary Range: Minimum $28,392.00 ($13.65/hr); maximum $43,846.40 ($21.08/hr)

Training: 2-year associate degree

School(s): Oklahoma City Community College, OKC

Unit Secretary

Contributes to patient care through the coordination of clerical and hospital functions on each patient care unit. Receives admitted patients, initiates patient files, takes action on doctors' orders, processes discharges, transfers and expirations, and prepares hospital statistical reports. Maintains supply levels for unit and reports unit needs to Housekeeping, Maintenance, etc.

Salary Range: Minimum $15,849.60 ($7.62/hr); maximum $23,566.40 ($11.33/hr)

Training: Certification

School(s): Consult your local technology center.

Mental Health Technician

Observes, assesses, counsels, and cares for patients with mental problems. Provides therapeutic intervention when indicated. Provides individual, family and group therapy. Position does not require formal education.

Salary Range: Minimum - $17,180.80 ($8.26/hr); maximum - $25,875.20 ($12.44/hr)

Training: Most hospitals hire psychology students.

Health Care Facility Administrator

Plans, organizes, directs, and coordinates administrative activities for a hospital, medical facility, or major medical service.

Salary Range: N/A

Training: Most hospitals hire candidates with a bachelor of science degree and/or master’s degree in public health, business administration or health administration.

Head of MIS

Responsible for all provider organization information systems activities, including: systems analysis, programming, and computer and auxiliary operations. Sets policies and procedures, technical standards and methods, and priorities. Acts as liaison between information systems and other functions in the provider organization. This is the top information systems officer. Typically reports to the President/CEO or VP level.

Salary Range: N/A

Training: 4-year baccalaureate degree

Schools: Consult the college/university of your choice

Community/School Health Educator

Teaches positive development of one’s knowledge, attitude, and practice concerning personal, family, and community health.

Salary Range: Minimum - $40,809.60 ($19.62/hr); maximum - $49,504.00 ($23.80/hr)

Training: Most schools and hospitals hire registered nurses.

Biomedical Engineer

Performs engineering work in a hospital or health care setting. Makes inspections, performs surveys, compiles and studies data and systems. Requires an engineering degree with a medical emphasis.

Salary Range: Minimum - $31,012.80 ($14.91/hr); maximum - $47,008.00 ($22.60/hr)

Training: 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s): Oklahoma State University, Stillwater

Biomedical Electronics Technician

Responsible for the maintenance and repair of a variety of diagnostic, analytic, and patient monitoring equipment such as x-ray equipment and patient vital signs or cardiac monitors, auto-analyzers, external pacemakers, electrosurgical cauterizers, EKG and EEG machines. Tests all equipment for calibration and electrical safety prior to patient's use. Requires training in electronics with major emphasis on biomedical electronics. AAMI certification preferred but not required.

Salary Range: Minimum - $31,366.40 ($15.08/hr); maximum - $49,670.40 ($23.88/hr)

Training: 2-year program

School(s): Tulsa Community College, Tulsa; Texas State Technical College, Harlingen, Texas

Social Service Worker, MSW

Secures background information from patient and his family for social evaluation of his environment and family relationships. Discusses information obtained in patient and family interviews with physicians, nursing staff and other hospital and community personnel. Assists patient in finding resources he will need in his home following discharge. Acts in a liaison role between hospital and family when patient is transferred to other hospital facilities. Requires masters degree in social work (MSW).

Salary Range: Minimum - $30,264.00 ($14.55/hr); maximum $46,716.80 ($22.46/hr)

Training: 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s): University of Oklahoma, Norman; Southwestern Oklahoma State Univ., Weatherford

Audiologist

Develops and administers programs for the evaluation and treatment of persons with communication disorders directly associated with hearing loss.

Salary Range: Minimum - $42,910.40 ($20.63/hr); $53,040.00 ($25.50/hr)

Training: 8-year doctorate degree

School(s): Univ. of Okla. Health Sciences Center, OKC, http://www.ouhsc.edu/ahealth

Occupational Therapist (Registered)

Evaluates patients and selects appropriate adaptive equipment and assistive devices. Works with physicians, social service, nursing and others to coordinate patients' treatment plans. Requirements: Registered by the American Occupational Therapy Association and licensed by the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners.

Salary Range: Minimum - $45,136.00 ($21.70/hr); maximum - $72,779.20 ($34.99/hr)

Training: 6-year master's degree

School(s): Univ. of Okla. Health Sciences Center, OKC, http://www.ouhsc.edu/ahealth

Occupational Therapy Assistant (Certified)

Uses selected therapeutic occupational therapy activities to instruct patients in the activities of daily living. Requirements: Graduate of a two-year occupational therapy program and licensed or eligible for licensure in the State of Oklahoma.

Salary Range: Minimum - $29,910.040 ($14.38/hr); maximum - $45,801.60 ($22.02/hr)

Training: 2-year associate degree

School(s): Southwestern Oklahoma State Univ., Weatherford; Caddo-Kiowa Tech. Center, Fort Cobb; Oklahoma City Community College, OKC; Tulsa Community College, Tulsa

Orthotist, Prosthetist

Works from physician’s prescription to provide devices for the orthopedically disabled; takes measurements for, designs and fits artificial limbs and braces; a bench technician fabricates and repairs the devices. Orthotists make and fit orthopedic braces. Prosthetists make and fit artificial limbs.

Salary Range: N/A

Training: 2-year associate degree

School(s): Francis Tuttle Tech. Center, OKC

Pharmacist (Registered)

Performs those duties associated with the manufacture, preparation, inspection and distribution of drugs, chemicals, antibiotics, biological and pharmaceutical preparations used in the treatment of patients. Prepares and maintains those records, reports, etc., required in the preparation, dispensing and storage of medications. Requires state licensure.

Salary Range: Minimum - $65,228.80 ($31.36/hr); maximum - $98,342.40 ($47.28/hr)

Training: 6-year program/doctor of pharmacy

School(s): Univ. of Okla. Health Sciences Center, OKC; Southwestern Oklahoma State Univ., Weatherford

Pharmacy Technician

Assists Pharmacist in processing prescriptions and other drug orders. Enters information on patient drug profiles, pulls prescribed medication from shelf, enters medication charges into the computer, restocks shelves, and handles telephone inquiries. Requires one year of comparable experience in a hospital pharmacy or commercial drug store. Requirements: Pharmacy Technician Permit issued by the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy.

Starting Salary Range: Minimum - $18,449.60 ($8.87/hr); maximum - $27,601.60 ($13.27/hr)

Training: Certification, pharmacy students

School(s): Oklahoma City Community College, OKC

Physical Therapist (Registered)

Treats patients by administration of physical therapy procedures and modalities such as exercise, heat, electrical devices and massage. Follows prescription by a physician. Evaluates and recommends additional modification of treatment, and is responsible for safety of patients. Designs and uses adaptive exercise equipment. Registration and state license required.

Salary Range: Minimum - $47,444.80 ($22.81/hr); maximum - $73,153.60 ($35.17/hr)

Training: 6-year master's degree

School(s): Langston University, Langston; Univ. of Okla. Health Sciences Center (MS), OKC, http://www.ouhsc.edu/ahealth

Physical Therapy Aide

Assists physical therapist and physical therapy assistant in preparing patients and equipment for treatment; transports patients to and from physical therapy department.

Salary Range: Minimum - $16,473.60 ($7.92/hr); maximum - $24,460.80 ($11.76/hr)

Training: Physical therapy students

School(s): Carl Albert State College, Poteau; Murray State College, Tishomingo

Physical Therapist Assistant

Administers patient treatment in accordance with physician referral and treatment plan. Provides supervision to physical therapy technicians/aides. Requires graduation from an APTA approved program.

Salary Range: Minimum - $30,950.40 ($14.88/hr); maximum - $46,612.80 ($22.41/hr)

Training: 2-year licensed program

School(s): Carl Albert State College, Poteau; Murray State College, Tishomingo; Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, Miami; Oklahoma City Community College, OKC; Rose State College, Midwest City; Eastern Oklahoma County Tech. Center, Choctaw; Southwestern Oklahoma State Univ., Weatherford; Caddo-Kiowa Tech. Center, Fort Cobb; Tulsa Community College, Tulsa

Radiation Therapy Technologist ARRT

Performs radiation therapy and radiographic procedures involving radioactive substances using specialized X-ray equipment and hyper baric chambers. Responsible for equipment operation, maintenance, ordering, storage and use of supplies. Maintains treatment records and prepares operational reports as required.

Salary Range: Minimum - $43,638.40 ($20.98/hr); maximum - $66,747 20 ($32.09/hr)

Training: 4-year baccalaureate degree

School(s): Univ. of Okla. Health Sciences Center, OKC

Recreation Therapist

Establishes, evaluates and coordinates therapeutic recreation program throughout the hospital for hospitalized patients and outpatients in accordance with patients' physical, social and emotional needs. Functions as a resource person for this specialty. Develops and writes patient progress and assessment reports, and treatment plans. Consults and assists recreation therapy coordinator on designing new and therapeutic programs and projects.

Salary Range: Minimum - $28,059.20 ($13.49/hr); maximum - $42,099.20 ($20.24/hr)

Training: Most hospitals hire college students pursuing a degree in physical education.

Respiratory Therapist, Registered (RRT)

Administers oxygen and other nonanesthetic gases to patients by various methods, including intermittent positive pressure; administers aerosol medications; may conduct pulmonary function tests, may do arterial punctures and conduct blood gas determinations. Instructs patients and others in proper use of equipment and may teach maintenance. Keeps records of treatments and patient charges. Requirements: Registered by the National Board of Respiratory Therapy. Licensed by the State of Oklahoma.

Salary Range: Minimum - $32,094.40 ($15.43/hr); maximum - $49,504.00 ($23.80/hr)

Training: 2-year associate degree and successfully pass certification in registry exams

School(s): Francis Tuttle Tech. Center, OKC; Rose State College, Midwest City

Respiratory Therapist, Certified (C.R.T.)

Administers all inhalation and resuscitation procedures. Makes periodic oxygen rounds to check patients and resuscitation equipment. Performs a variety of procedures relating to the operation, maintenance and storage of resuscitation equipment. Requirements: Must be a Certified Respiratory Therapist and licensed by the State of Oklahoma.

Salary Range: Minimum - $28,038.40 ($13.48/hr); maximum - $42,619.20 ($20.49/hr)

Training: 2-year associate degree and successfully pass certification exam

School(s): Francis Tuttle Tech. Center, OKC; Great Plains Tech. Center, Lawton; Pioneer Tech. Center, Ponca City; Rose State College, Midwest City

Speech Pathologist

Diagnoses, treats, and performs research related to speech and language problems. Requirements: License in speech-language pathology from the Oklahoma State Board of Examiners.

Salary Range: Minimum - $42,744.00 ($20.55/hr); maximum - $63,668.80 ($30.61/hr)

Training: 6-year master's degree

School(s): University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond; Univ. of Okla. Health Sciences Center, OKC, http://www.ouhsc.edu/ahealth; Oklahoma State University, Stillwater; Northeastern State University, Tahlequah; University of Tulsa

Clinic and Laboratory Diagnostic Care Dietetic Care Direct Care Health Information Management Medical Secretarial Mental Health Other Professional PositionsSupportive CareTherapeutic Care