Allied Health Manual

This manual is not intended to be a detailed guide to all of these professions, but rather a starting point. Consequently, an effort was made to be brief and concise, so that students could learn about these career possibilities in a relatively short time. In perusing it, you will get an idea of which careers you want to learn more about, and which ones don't interest you. From there it will be your task to seek more details.

Most of the information contained in this manual was taken from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' on-line version of the Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Once you have an idea of which professions you're most interested in, research them in more detail. You can learn more by talking to the campus advisor listed at the end of each entry, meeting with a career counselor, writing to the occupation's national organization or to schools that offer programs you're interested in, and examining other printed or Internet sources.

Career Development Exploring your interests is probably the best place to begin your career development. This manual is one resource you can use for that project. You might also take a career test, such as the Strong-Campbell Interest Inventory, to see how closely your interests match those of various kinds of health care professionals. After you've narrowed the field some, one of the best ways to find out if you would like to work in a particular profession is to spend some time around it, either working or observing.

It's exciting and necessary to explore your interests, but keep in mind that interest is only one part of the equation. You must also be suited to a profession's educational requirements and work. For example, if you don't like math and science, you should probably rule out medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and some others, because of their curricula. Similarly, if you are impatient and like to see immediate results from your work, physical and occupational therapy are probably not careers you would enjoy.

Because many of these professions are so attractive, they are pursued by large numbers of students. As a result, the number of spots available in the most popular professional programs (for example, medicine and physical therapy) is much smaller than the number of applicants. Many qualified applicants aren't accepted simply because there are too many of them. Any student preparing to apply to a competitive program should have an alternate plan in case she isn't accepted into her first choice. Maybe your first choice is physical therapy, but because it's so competitive, you might make physical therapy assisting your back-up plan. It's important to be realistic about both your abilities and the extent of the competition. Set reasonable goals and you'll have a much better chance of achieving them.

The more exploration and research you do, the less likely you are to commit to something prematurely, only to find out later that it's not for you. Don't fix on one particular career path until you've thoroughly researched it. Be open and flexible while you're exploring. If you are in a rush to decide, you may make a bad decision. It's simply not true that there's only one job out there for you; there are probably lots of things you would be happy doing, so don't limit yourself.

We hope that you will find the Health Professions Manual helpful in your on-going career development. Any comments or suggestions are welcome. Contact: Trevor Francis at Old Main 518. Or call the Fulbright Advising Center at (479) 575-3307.

ATHLETIC TRAINER

What do they do? Athletic trainers help athletes achieve and maintain fitness and flexibility by prescribing proper exercise, diet and healthy lifestyle habits. During practices and competitions, trainers work to prevent injuries to athletes through taping, bandaging and bracing. When injuries do occur, they give immediate care and determine whether or not a physician should be consulted. They are often involved in the rehabilitation process following injury. Some college and high school trainers may also teach.

Most athletic trainers work in high schools, colleges, and sports medicine clinics. Some work in health clubs, and a few work for professional sports teams. There are about 13,000 athletic trainers currently employed in the U.S.

How much do they make? Beginning salaries range from $16,000 to $27,000 for non-teaching positions in schools and colleges; many receive additional pay for extra duties. Trainers with teaching positions in academic athletic training programs will make $27,000 to $30,000, and those who work in sports medicine clinics and industry can expect a starting salary in that same range. Head trainers and those working for professional sports teams can earn significantly more.

What's the job outlook? The employment outlook for athletic trainers is fair to good. There are likely to be more jobs for athletic trainers in sports medicine clinics and hospitals over the next few years. Competition for jobs with major college and professional teams will continue to be very tough.

What personal qualities are required for athletic training? Those with a keen interest in sports, athletes and health care are best suited to this job. Athletic trainers should be committed to personal fitness and have a lot of energy and stamina. Good communication skills are necessary for dealing with coaches, athletes and parents under stressful conditions.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to the athletic training program? The University of Arkansas offers a Master of Science degree in Exercise Science with a specialization in Athletic Training. The graduate program has received candidacy status for accreditation by the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Athletic Training. Students completing the graduate program are qualified to take the national certification exam in Athletic Training.

Students applying to the athletic training program at the U of A must have an undergraduate degree in Kinesiology or a related field. The following courses must be completed prior to admission:

The University of Arkansas offers a pre-athletic training emphasis under the Exercise Science option of the Bachelor of Science in Education degree. Undergraduate students interested in becoming certified athletic trainers may complete the pre-athletic training curriculum to meet entrance requirements for the graduate program at the U of A.

What GPA is required for admission into the program? Students must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.00 or a cumulative undergraduate GPA between 2.70 and 2.99 and a 3.00 GPA on the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework OR a GRE score of 1000 on the verbal and quantitative parts of the general test.

How long does it take to become a certified athletic trainer? The graduate program is approximately 2 ½ years and consists of 51 semester hours of graduate work and an independent research project or thesis. The Athletic Training program also includes a clinical component. Students will complete most of their clinical hours as part of their course work, but additional hours will be required to complete educational competencies and qualify for the National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification examination.

Other Programs

CHIROPRACTOR

What do they do? Chiropractors diagnose and treat problems associated with the body's muscular, nervous, and skeletal systems, especially the spine. They use a variety of nonsurgical, drugless techniques to treat patients, including spinal manipulation and massage, electric, water, heat, and light therapies. The chiropractic emphasis is holistic, so practitioners often recommend lifestyle changes in addition to more specific treatments.

Almost all chiropractors either own their own practice or are part of a group practice. The average work week is about 42 hours, although longer hours are not uncommon. Chiropractors sometimes work evenings and weekends to accommodate patients' schedules.

How much do they make? According to information from the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median income for salaried chiropractors was approximately $70,000. Self-employed chiropractors typically earn more that salaried chiropractors.

What's the job outlook? Employment prospects are good, and the occupation is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

What personal qualities are required for chiropractic? Chiropractic requires excellent manual dexterity to perform complex manipulations, but not unusual strength. Empathy, understanding, and the desire to help others are important for dealing effectively with patients. In addition, an aptitude for business and good management skills are needed for running a successful private practice.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a chiropractic college? The following is the general pre-professional course work for several regional chiropractic colleges. Though the pre-professional curriculum is similar for all programs, there are variations between schools. A minimum of 90 semester hours to include 30 hours of upper division courses and the following:

8 hours of biology
12 hours of chemistry*
7 hours of physics**
6 hours of English composition
3 hours of psychology
15 hours of social sciences or humanities

*At least 3 semester hours must be general or inorganic, and at least 6 semester hours must be organic chemistry and/or biochemistry. Six semester hours of the chemistry courses must include related labs.

** At least one physics course with corresponding lab is required. A second physics course or one course in biomechanics, kinesiology, statistics or exercise physiology will meet the remaining requirement.

What is the GPA requirement for chiropractic school? Students must have at least a 2.50 cumulative grade point average on a 4.00 scale and a grade point average of 2.50 for prerequisite course work.

Are there other requirements for admission to chiropractic school? Some schools require a letter of recommendation from a practicing chiropractor. Shadowing would be a good way to make this contact. There is no admissions test.

How long does chiropractic school last? The professional curriculum for most colleges is 10 trimesters. Each trimester is approximately four months long and most students complete the curriculum in three and one-third years.

What is chiropractic school like? Generally, students take courses and labs in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, biochemistry, and other sciences for the first 2 years. After that the focus shifts to learning chiropractic techniques and gaining clinical experience.

Who advises for pre-chiropractic at the U of A?

Fulbright College Advising Center
Old Main 518
(479) 575-3307

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What do they do? Cytotechnologists assist physicians in diagnosing cancer by preparing slides of tissue samples and examining them under a microscope. They use a variety of techniques in slide preparation and examination, and they are able to diagnose a variety of conditions. The cytotechnologist works closely with a pathologist to arrive at a diagnosis to report to the physician working with the patient. Cytotechnologists may also assist in obtaining specimen tissue from patients. Cytotechnologists work in hospitals, private laboratories, universities, government facilities and private industry.

How much do they make? According to UAMS, entry-level starting salaries are around $35,000.

What's the job outlook? Employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2010. Technological developments may simplify some tests and allow fewer lab workers to perform more tests, which may slow growth; however, with the development of more and better tests, additional testing may be encouraged, spurring growth. Independent medical laboratories are expected to be the fastest growing employers of lab workers as hospitals increasingly use them.

What personal qualities are required for cytotechnology? Being detail-oriented and skilled at analysis is important. Excellent manual dexterity and normal color vision are also necessary for the meticulous tasks and careful observations required of a cytotechnologist. The ability to maintain concentration is essential.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a program in cytotechnology? UAMS requires 84 hours of pre-professional course work to include the following:

20 hours of biological science
8 hours of chemistry
3 hours of college algebra or a higher math
3 hours of communication
6 hours of English composition
6 hours of Western civilization
3 hours of American history or government
3 hours of fine arts
6 hours of social science
3 hours of humanities

How long would a program last? At UAMS students complete 40 semester credits over 12 months of full-time study.

Department of Cytotechnology, College of Health Related Professions, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., #517, Little Rock, AR 72205. (501) 686-5618.
Program Director, Department of Cytotechnology, College of Allied Health Sciences, UT Memphis, 800 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163. (901) 448-6304.

What do they do? Dental hygienists clean patients' teeth, removing plaque, tartar and stains. They also inspect teeth and gums for cavities and other problems. Hygienists also take and develop x-rays, apply cavity preventive agents to teeth, remove stitches, etc., using a variety of instruments. They may also assist dentists in filling cavities, extracting teeth and performing root canals.

Dental hygienists typically work in dental clinics with one or several dentists. Full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend work is widely available, offering hygienists great flexibility in their work schedule. It is not uncommon for a hygienist to work part-time in more than one dental office. Because there is risk of exposure to radiation and infectious diseases, hygienists must adhere to strict safety guidelines, including wearing protective gloves and face cover.

How much do they make? According to the American Dental Association, dental hygienists who work 32 hours a week or more average $759 a week.

What's the job outlook? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of dental hygienists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2010. It is projected to be one of the 30 fastest growing occupations. Job prospects are expected to remain very good unless the number of dental hygienist program graduates grows much faster than during the last decade.

What personal qualities are required for dental hygiene? Patients are often in pain and/or stressed out by dental work, so a soothing manner and good people skills are needed. Because dentistry is "up close and personal," the hygienist must be comfortable being in close proximity to a variety of people. Excellent manual dexterity is also necessary for performing precision work in the small space of the human mouth. If you're "all thumbs," you should probably look at other careers.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a dental hygiene program? The following information is for the Dental Hygiene program at the UAMS. Requirements vary some from program to program. The Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene requires 34 hours of pre-professional course work and 67 hours of professional course work. The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene requires 46 hours of pre-professional course work, 69 hours of professional course work, and a sufficient number of additional hours to complete a minimum of 124 hours. The following courses are required for candidates of both the Associate's and Bachelor's degrees:

4 hours of biology
4 hours of microbiology
4-5 hours of chemistry
3 hours of mathematics
3 hours of computer science
6 hours of English
3 hours of sociology
3 hours of psychology
3 hours of communication
3 hours of U.S. History or political science
Total: 36-37 hours

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree must meet these additional requirements, but they may be completed after application:

3 hours of fine arts
3 hours of humanities
6 hours of Western civilization
11 hours of upper level electives (junior/senior level)

What's the average GPA accepted? The following information refers to the 2002 admitted students for dental hygiene at UAMS.

Average cumulative GPA: 3.78
Average prerequisite GPA: 3.72
Average ACT score: 25

Are there other requirements for admission? At UAMS: One reference form is required from a person qualified to judge the applicant's promise of success in the program. It must reflect evidence of previous exposure (at least 20 hours of observation) to the profession of dentistry. ACT scores are also required. Students scoring below 20 on the ACT should retake the test before applying.

How long does the program last? The UAMS program lasts 2 years (five semesters, including 1 summer semester).

What is the program like? Students take courses in chemistry, anatomy, radiography, dental hygiene theory and other sciences for the first 4 semesters. Clinical practice begins in the second semester and continues through the final semester. Students take an average of 16-17 hours per semester.

Department of Dental Hygiene
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham #609, Little Rock, AR 72205. (501) 686-5733.

Baylor College of Dentistry
Caruth School of Dental Hygiene, 3302 Gaston Ave., Dallas, TX 75246. (214) 828-8100.

What do they do? Dentists prevent, diagnose, and treat problems with teeth, gums and the bones supporting the mouth. Most are general practitioners, performing a variety of dental services, but some specialize in straightening teeth, performing oral surgery, making artificial teeth, or one of several other specialties. In addition to treating patients, dentists in private practice must manage employees and oversee the tasks of running a business, such as keeping books and ordering supplies.

Most dentists own their own businesses and work alone or with a small staff. Some have
partners, and a few work for other dentists as associate dentists. Dentists typically work four or five days a week for an average of 40 hours.

How much do they make? According to the American Dental Association, the average net income for dentists in general practice was about $125,000 a year, and for those in speciality practice, about $195,000 a year.

What's the job outlook? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of dentists is expected to change or grow more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2006. Job prospects should continue to be good if the number of graduates from dental schools does not grow significantly.

What personal qualities are required for dentistry? Excellent manual dexterity and a feel for visual details are necessary for performing the precision tasks of dentistry. In addition, an aptitude for business and good communication skills are needed for running a successful private practice.

8 hours of general chemistry
8 hours of organic chemistry
8 hours of general biology
8 hours of physics

Several advanced biology courses (e.g., anatomy, physiology, microbiology) and Dental Science are strongly recommended. Any major is ok.

Are there other requirements for admission to dental school? All schools require students to take the Dental Admission Test (D.A.T.).

What should I major in? Most applicants major in a science such as biology or chemistry, but any major is ok as long as students complete the required pre-professional courses. Majoring in a science does not give an applicant any advantage over non-science majors.

What is dental school like? The first two years consist of courses in anatomy, microbiology, biochemistry and laboratory techniques. Students take lots of hours and are expected to learn a tremendous amount of information in a short time. During the third and fourth years, students learn the practical skills of dentistry by treating patients under the supervision of licensed dentists.

Addresses and phone numbers of selected dental schools The State of Arkansas has tuition agreements with these and several other dental schools to waive out-of-state fees.

What do they do? The diagnostic medical sonographer uses as non-invasive technique that utilizes high-frequency sound waves along with detectors and computer programs to produce cross-sectional images of internal organs and structures. The diagnostic medical sonographer uses medical ultrasound equipment to help physicians diagnose conditions related to the abdomen, pelvis, heart and vascular system. After completing a diagnostic medical sonography program, students can take national certification exams to specialize in abdominal, obstetrics and gynecology, cardiac or vascular sonography.

How much do they make? In 2000, the median annual salary for diagnostic medical sonographers was close to $45,000.

What's the job outlook? The national demand for sonographers greatly exceeds the number of graduates, so growth is much faster than average for the field. Educators, researchers, and administrators in the field are also needed.

What personal qualities are required for diagnostic medical sonography? Sonographers must demonstrate a high degree of motivation and good judgment, in addition to having the ability to work independently. Patience, empathy, and highly ethical behavior are hallmark qualities in this profession.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a diagnostic medical sonography program? Applicants for admission must present a minimum of 63 semester hours. These must include:

6 hours of English composition
4 hours of human anatomy
4 hours of human physiology
4 hours of introductory physics
3 hours of communication (speech)
3 hours of college algebra
3 hours of U.S. History
6 hours of history of civilization
3 hours of sociology
3 hours of psychology
3 hours of fine arts
3 hours of humanities
3 hours of computer fundamentals/applications
15 hours of electives

How long would a program last? The program at UAMS generally lasts approximately 2 years.

DIETITIAN

What do they do? Dietitians plan nutrition programs and supervise the preparation and serving of meals. They help prevent and treat illnesses by promoting healthy eating habits, scientifically evaluating clients' diets, and suggesting diet modifications. Dietitians run food service systems for institutions such as hospitals and schools, promote sound eating habits through education, and conduct research. Major areas of practice are clinical, community, management, and consultant dietetics.

How much do they make? According to a Hay Group survey of acute care hospitals, the median annual base salary of full-time staff dietitians was $34,400 in January 1997. The middle 50 percent earned between $31,300 and $37,200. Salaries also vary by years in practice, education level, geographic region, and size of community.

What's the job outlook? Dietitians held about 58,000 jobs in 1996. Over half were in hospitals, nursing homes, or offices and clinics of physicians. The job outlook for dietitians is average to good through the year 2006. Employment of dietitians in hospitals is expected to decline because of lower numbers of inpatients, however, faster than average growth in employment is expected in nursing homes as the number of elderly people rises sharply. Opportunities for dietitians may be constrained due to some employers substituting other workers such as nurses, health educators, food service managers, and dietetic technicians, and also because there are limitations on insurance reimbursement for dietetic services.

What personal qualities are required for dietitians? Dietitians work with people of all ages and backgrounds, so good communication and people skills are a must. Organization skills are essential for filling food service orders and when recording patients' meal plans, creating new foods, or calculating food content for labels.

Which courses are required for a degree in dietetics? The basic educational requirement for dietitians and nutritionists is a bachelor's degree with a major in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area. Students take courses in foods, nutrition, institution management, chemistry, biology, microbiology, and physiology. Other
suggested courses include business, mathematics, statistics, computer science, psychology, sociology, and economics.

What is the dietetic program at the U of A like? At the U of A, students are required to complete their four year B.S. degree in Dietetics, and an additional one year internship is required for eligibility to take the national registration examination and for eligibility for licensure. Students who complete the four year program with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 may apply for an internship. Students with lower GPAs may apply for supervised practice programs leading to the Dietitic Technician Registered (DTR).

School of Human Environmental Sciences
118 Home Economics Building
575-4305

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What do they do? The Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) is a physician licensed to diagnose and treat illnesses using all of the techniques available to modern medicine. D.O.'s may prescribe medication and perform surgery, and they are recognized by the federal government, all 50 states, and the American Medical Association as the equals of Doctors of Allopathic Medicine (M.D.'s). What differentiates the D.O. from the M.D. is philosophy. The D.O.'s approach is holistic, viewing the human body as a single organism composed of interdependent systems and parts. D.O.'s strive to treat the whole patient rather than just the afflicted area. They are especially attentive to problems stemming from the musculoskeletal system, which they believe reflects and influences the whole body.

Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine work in the entire range of health care settings, including hospitals, clinics, private offices, and nursing homes, and they can be found in all medical specialties. Many become family practitioners due to their interest in full patient treatment. Work hours are often long and irregular. Many doctors work 60 hours per week or more.

How much do they make? According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, average salaries of medical residents ranged from $32,789 in 1996/97 for those in their first year of residency to $40,849 for those in their sixth year. According to the American Medical Association, median income, after expenses, for physicians was about $160,000 in 1998. The middle 50 percent earned between $120,000 and $240,000.

What's the job outlook? Employment of physicians is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2010. Job prospects will be best for primary care physicians such as general and family practitioners, general pediatricians, and general internists; and for geriatric and preventive care specialists. Job opportunities should be particularly good for those willing to work in rural and low-income areas.

What personal qualities are required for osteopathy? Compassion, empathy and a genuine concern for people are essential for becoming a doctor of osteopathic medicine. An aptitude for science and math combined with long-term stamina are required for getting into and getting through medical school. One must also be willing to work long, irregular hours under stressful conditions. Doctors are often required to make life and death decisions in emergencies, so if you're the kind of person who falls apart under stress, medicine is not for you.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to an osteopathic medical college? To be considered for admission to any of the nation's osteopathic medical schools, applicants typically have a bachelor's degree, with undergraduate studies that include:

6 hours of English
8 hours of biological sciences
8 hours of general chemistry
8 hours of organic chemistry
8 hours of physics
Other requirements may include genetics, mathematics, and psychology.

Are there other requirements for admission to osteopathic school? Applicants must also take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT).

What's the average GPA accepted? Average for the 2001 Entering Class of Oklahoma State University, College of Osteopathic Medicine:

What should I major in? Most applicants major in a science such as biology or chemistry, but any major is acceptable as long as students complete the required pre-professional courses. Majoring in a science does not give an applicant any advantage over non-science majors.

What is osteopathic college like? The first two years focus on basic sciences such as anatomy and biochemistry. Students take heavy loads and are expected to learn a tremendous amount of information in a short time. The third and fourth years emphasize clinical work, with much of the teaching in community hospitals, major medical centers and doctors' offices. During the clinical years, students study general medicine and are involved in research. They rotate through urban, suburban and rural settings, gaining exposure to all areas of medicine. Osteopathic principles and practices are integrated into the four-year curriculum.

Following graduation, D.O.'s complete an approved 12-month internship. Interns rotate through hospital departments including internal medicine, family practice, and surgery. Many may then choose to complete a residency program in a specialty area, requiring two to six years of additional training. The average medical student is $50,000 - $100,000 in debt upon graduation from medical school.

Freshmen and sophomores 
Dr. Jeanne McMachlin 
Dept. of Biological Sciences
SCEN 625
(479) 575-5348
jeannem@uark.edu

Juniors and seniors
Dr. Neil Allison
Liebolt Chair of Premedical Sciences
Dept. of Chemistry
PHNX F05
(479) 575-5179
nallison@uark.edu

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What do they do? Podiatrists, also known as Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.'s), diagnose and treat disorders, diseases and injuries of the foot and lower leg. These include problems ranging from the relatively minor, such as bunions and ingrown toenails, to the serious, such as deformities and those resulting from diabetes. Podiatrists may prescribe drugs, order physical therapy, set fractures, and perform surgery. They also fit corrective inserts called orthotics, design plaster casts and strappings to correct deformities, and design custom-made shoes.

Most podiatrists have a general practice, but some specialize in surgery, orthopedics, or public health. Besides these certified specialties, podiatrists may practice a subspecialty such as sports medicine, pediatrics, dermatology, radiology, geriatrics, or diabetic foot care. Podiatrists in private practice must attend to the duties of running a business, including hiring and supervising employees, ordering supplies, and keeping records.

How much do they make? According to a survey by Podiatry Management, median net income of podiatrists in solo practice was about $89,681 in 2000. Podiatrists in partnerships or group practices earned a median net income of $96,200 in 2000.

What's the job outlook? Employment of podiatrists is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2006. More people will turn to podiatrists for foot care as the elderly population grows. However, podiatry depends on disposable income more than some other specialties, because many of its services are not covered by insurance policies. It is, therefore, more sensitive to fluctuations in the economy than most other health professions.

What personal qualities are required for podiatry? It requires a great deal of stamina and science and math aptitude to make it through podiatry school and the rigors of a residency. As with all direct care medical practitioners, podiatrists should be compassionate, empathetic and understanding.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a college of podiatry? Required for admission to a college of podiatric medicine is the completion of at least 90 semester hours of undergraduate study to include the following courses:

8 hours of biology
8 hours of general chemistry
8 hours of organic chemistry
8 hours of physics
6 hours of English
Over 95 percent of successful applicants have a bachelor's degree.

Science GPA: 3.0
Non-science GPA: 3.3
MCAT: 20

Are there other requirements for admission to podiatric college? Applicants are required to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).

How long does podiatric college last? 4 years of school + 1-3 years of residency.

What is podiatric college like? The first 2 years focus on classroom instruction in the basic sciences, including anatomy, chemistry and pharmacology. Students take lots of hours and are expected to learn a tremendous amount of information in a short time. Students have clinical rotations in private practices, hospitals, and clinics for the last 2 years. During these rotations, they learn how to take general and podiatric histories, perform routine physical examinations, interpret tests and findings, make diagnoses, and perform therapeutic procedures. Graduates receive the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) degree.

Most graduates complete a hospital residency program after receiving a D.P.M. Residents receive advanced training in podiatric medicine and surgery and serve clinical rotations in anesthesiology, internal medicine, pathology, radiology, and surgery.

Freshmen and sophomores 
Dr. Jeanne McMachlin 
Dept. of Biological Sciences
SCEN 625
(479) 575-5348
jeannem@uark.edu

Juniors and seniors
Dr. Neil Allison
Liebolt Chair of Premedical Sciences
Dept. of Chemistry
PHNX F05
(479) 575-5179
nallison@uark.edu

What do they do? Emergency medical technicians (EMT's) rush to the aid of people who have been badly injured or have fallen seriously ill. They determine the nature and severity of patients' health problems, give immediate care at the scene, and then transport patients to hospitals when necessary for further care. They usually work in teams of two. One drives the ambulance while the other attends to the patient/s in the back.

There are three levels of EMT's: EMT-Basic, EMT-Intermediate, and EMT-Paramedic. An EMT's level reflects her experience and education. The higher the level, the more advanced kinds of treatments the EMT is licensed to perform.

EMT's work both indoors and outdoors, in all kinds of weather. The work is stressful and physically demanding. Most work more than 40 hours per week, and hours tend to be irregular.

How much do they make? Earnings of EMTs depend on the employment setting and geographic location as well as the individual's training and experience. The median annual salary for EMTs in 2000 was $22,460 with the middle 50 percent earning between $17,930 and $29,270.

What's the job outlook? Employment of EMTs is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2010. Most job openings result from turnover, which is largely due to working conditions and limited opportunity for advancement. Population growth and aging baby boomers will increase the demand for full time EMTs and paramedics. EMTs held about 172,000 jobs in 2000. About 40 percent were employed by private ambulance services; 30 percent were in municipal fire, police, or rescue squad departments; and 20 percent were in hospitals.

What personal qualities are required for this job? EMT's should be emotionally stable, have good dexterity, agility, and physical coordination, and be able to lift and carry heavy loads. EMT's need good eyesight (corrective lenses may be used) with accurate color vision.

What kind of education is required to become an EMT? To become an EMT-Basic, you must be 18, hold a current American Heart Association CPR card for Modules 1-4, and take a course in Emergency Medicine. You must also pass the EMT certification exam.

EMT-Intermediate requires that you are already certified as an EMT-Basic. You must take a second course in emergency medicine and pass a certification exam. Those certified in EMT-Basic or EMT-Intermediate may apply to an EMT-Paramedic program. A student may choose to pursue either an Associate's degree or certification.

National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians
102 W. Leake St., Clinton, MS 39056.
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
P.O. Box 29233, Columbus, OH 43229.
National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians
http://www.naemt.org/
National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
http://www.nremt.org/

HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNICIAN

What do they do? Health Information Technicians, also known as Medical Records Technicians, organize and evaluate patient information. This information includes that provided by the patient, observations recorded by physicians, the results of lab tests and x-rays, diagnoses, and treatments. Technicians make sure charts contain all necessary information and that everything has been correctly presented and signed by the appropriate people. Technicians may specialize in coding patients according to the information in the charts for insurance reimbursement purposes, or they may analyze data for institutional purposes, or they may process particular kinds of data to be used in research.

Most health information technicians work 40 hours per week. Those in hospitals may have to rotate between day, evening, and night shifts. They have little or no contact with patients and work in offices. About one-half of the jobs are in hospitals. Most of the remainder are in nursing homes, medical group practices, health maintenance organizations, and clinics. A few work in insurance, accounting, or law firms that specialize in health matters.

How much do they make? UAMS reports starting salaries ranging from $22,000 to $30,000 for credentialed Health Information Technicians. In 2000, the national median annual salary for technicians was $22,750 with the middle 50 percent making from $18,700 to $28,590. The average annual salary for health information technicians employed by the Federal Government was $25,570 in early 1997.

What's the job outlook? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, health information technicians are projected to be one of the 20 fastest growing occupations; therefore, job prospects should be very good.

What personal qualities are required for health information technology? Health information technologists should be attentive to detail and have excellent concentration. If you're easily bored by repetitive tasks, or if you require a lot of human interaction at work, this is probably not the profession for you.

What kind of training is required to become a health information technician? Programs generally last 2 years and offer an associate's degree. Some of the courses typically included are statistics, medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, medical record documentation systems and medical law. Programs also include directed clinical practice. Upon completion of a program, students take an accreditation exam to become Accredited Record Technicians (ART's).

National Park Community College
Health Information Technology Program, 101 College Dr., Hot Springs, AR 71913-9174. (501) 767-9371.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Department of Health Information Management, UAMS, #733, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205. (501) 686-7790.
Penn Valley Community College
Health Information Technology Program, 3201 SW Trafficway, Kansas City, MO 64111. (816) 759-4245.
Louisiana Tech University
Health Information Technology Program, P.O. Box 3171, Ruston, LA 71272. (318) 257-2854.
Hinds Community College District
Health Information Technology Program, 1750 Chadwick Dr., Jackson, MS 39204. (601) 372-6507.

Where can I find out more? Information on careers in health information technology, including the Independent Study Program, and a list of CAAHEP-accredited programs is available from:

American Health Information Management Association
919 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1400, Chicago, IL 60611
American Health Information Management Association
http://www.ahima.org/
Medical Records Institute
http://www.medrecinst.com/

What do they do? Licensed practical nurses (L.P.N.'s) care for the sick, injured, and disabled under the direction of physicians and registered nurses. Most L.P.N.'s provide basic bedside care. They take vital signs such as temperature, blood pressure, and pulse. They also treat bedsores, give injections and enemas, apply dressings, give alcohol rubs and massages, apply ice packs and hot water bottles, and insert catheters. L.P.N.'s observe patients and report adverse reactions to medications or treatments. They help patients with bathing, dressing, and personal hygiene, and they feed them, keep them comfortable, and care for their emotional needs.

Most licensed practical nurses in hospitals and nursing homes work a 40?hour week. Work hours often include nights, weekends and holidays. LPNs held about 700,000 jobs in 2000. Over half of all LPNs work in hospitals and nursing homes, less than fifteen percent work in physicians' offices and clinics, and the rest work for home healthcare, residential care facilities, schools or government agencies.

How much do they make? Median annual earnings of licensed practical nurses were $29,440 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $24,920 and $34,800. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,520; the top 10 percent, more than $41,800.

What's the job outlook? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of LPNs is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2010 in response to an aging population of baby boomers and the long-term care needs of the elderly. Employment of LPNs in nursing homes and home healthcare is expected to grow faster than the average due to the increased need of these services for the elderly.

What personal qualities are required for nursing? L.P.N.'s should be caring and empathetic. They need emotional stability because work with the sick and injured can be stressful, and they often have heavy workloads. They must be able to follow orders and work under close supervision. Because they often stand for long periods and help patients move, stand, or walk, the strength and stamina to perform these tasks is necessary.

What are the requirements for applying to a practical nursing program? High school diploma or equivalent.

How long would a program last? Full-time programs are approximately 12-18 months long.

What would a program be like? Students take courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, etc., and they participate in several internships in clinical settings.

What do they do? Doctors of Medicine (M.D.'s), also known as allopathic physicians, work to prevent, diagnose, and treat illnesses and injuries. They examine patients; obtain medical histories; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They may prescribe medicines and perform surgery. In addition, they counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive health care. Doctors may specialize in one of a wide range of areas, or they may choose to be general practitioners, treating a variety of conditions.

Many doctors work long, irregular hours. Almost one-third of all full-time doctors worked 60 hours a week or more in 2000. Those who are on-call may make emergency visits to hospitals. About seventy percent of doctors work in office-based practices, and twenty percent work in hospitals.

How much do they make? Physicians have among the highest earnings of any occupation. According to the American Medical Association, median income, after expenses, for physicians was about $160,000 in 1998. The middle 50 percent earned between $120,000 and $240,000. Self-employed physicians report higher earnings than salaried physicians, and earnings also vary based upon geographic region, years in practice, specialty and professional reputation.

What's the job outlook? Employment of physicians is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2010. While job prospects are better for primary care physicians, jobs for specialists are being created in response to patient demand for specialty care. Job opportunities should be particularly good for those willing to work in rural and low-income areas.

What personal qualities are required for medicine? Compassion, empathy and a genuine concern for people are essential for being a good doctor. An aptitude for science and math combined with long-term stamina are required for getting into and getting through medical school. One must also be willing to work long, irregular hours under stressful conditions. Doctors are often required to make life and death decisions in emergencies, so if you're the kind of person who falls apart under stress, medicine is probably not for you.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to medical school? To be considered for admission to any of the nation's medical schools,
you'll need a bachelor's degree with undergraduate studies that include:

8 hours of biological sciences
8 hours of physics
8 hours of general chemistry
8 hours of organic chemistry
6 hours of English
Math through Calculus I, biochemistry and several upper level biology classes are recommended.

Are there other requirements for admission to medical school? Medical school admission is very competitive. In addition to college course work, applicants must also take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and submit letters of recommendation. Medical schools also screen qualified applicants based on personality, leadership ability, community service and extracurricular activities.

What should I major in? Most applicants major in a science such as biology or chemistry, but any major is okay as long as students complete the required pre-professional courses. Majoring in a science does not give an applicant any advantage over non-science majors.

What's the average GPA accepted? For the 2001 entering class, UAMS received approximately 350 resident applications for 150 positions. Successful applicants had a bachelor's degree, an average MCAT score of 25.7, and an average undergraduate GPA of 3.6. National Averages for U.S. Medical Schools for 2001 Entering Class:

How long does medical school last? Medical school is four years in length. A residency after graduation may last up to seven years.

What is medical school like? The first 2 years of medical school are spent in science courses, including anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, etc. During this time, students take heavy loads, and they are expected to learn tremendous amounts of information. The last 2 years students work with patients in a variety of settings under the supervision of experienced physicians to learn hands-on medical skills.

Following medical school, almost all M.D.'s go directly on to graduate medical education, called a residency. To qualify for a residency, students must pass a standardized test.

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
4301 West Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205. (501) 686-5000.
University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
Dotty Shaw Killam College of Medicine, P.O. Box 26901, Oklahoma City, OK . (405) 271-2331.
University of Tennessee College of Medicine
790 Madison Avenue, Memphis, TN 38163-2166. (901) 448-5559.
Vanderbilt School of Medicine
Office of Admissions, 209 Light Hall Nashville, TN 37232-0685. (615) 322-2145.
Baylor College of Medicine
Office of Admissions, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030. (713) 798-4842.
Texas A & M University
College of Medicine, Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions, College Station, TX 77843-1114. (409) 845-7744.
Texas Tech University
School of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, Office of Admissions, Lubbock, TX 79430. (806) 743-2297.
University of Texas, Galveston
Medical School at Galveston, Office of Admissions, G.210, Ashbel Smith Bldg., Galveston, TX 77555-1317. (409) 772-3517.
University of Texas, Houston
Medical School at Houston, Office of Admissions, Room G-024, P.O. Box 20708, Houston, TX 77225. (713) 792-4711.
University of Texas, San Antonio
Medical School at San Antonio, Medical School Admissions, Health Science Center, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78284-7701. (210) 567-2665.
University of Texas, Southwestern,
Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Office of the Registrar, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX 75235-9096. (214) 648-2670.
University of Missouri
Columbia, School of Medicine, Office of Admissions, MA202 Medical Sciences Bldg., One Hospital Drive, Columbia, MO 65212. (314) 882-2923.
University of Missouri - Kansas City
School of Medicine, Council on Selection, 2411 Holmes, Kansas City, MO 64108. (816) 235-1870.
St. Louis University, School of Medicine
Admissions Committee, 1402 South Grand Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63104. (314) 577-8205.
Washington University,
School of Medicine, Office of Admissions, 660 South Euclid Avenue, #8107, St. Louis, MO 63110. (314) 362-6857.
University of Mississippi
School of Medicine, Chair, Admissions Committee, 2500 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39216-4505. (601) 984-5010.
LSU-New Orleans, School of Medicine
Admissions Office, 1901 Perdido Street, Box P3-4, New Orleans, LA 70112-1393. (504) 568-6262.
LSU-Shreveport, School of Medicine
Office of Student Admissions, P.O. Box 33932, Shreveport, LA 71130-3932. (318) 675-5190.
Tulane University, School of Medicine
Office of Admissions, 1430 Tulane Ave, SL67, New Orleans, LA 70112-2699. (504) 588-5187.

American Medical Association
515 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60610.
Association of American Medical Colleges
Section for Student Services, 2450 N St. NW.
Washington, DC 20037-1131
Association of American Medical Colleges
http://www.aamc.org/start.htm
American Medical Association Homepage
http://www.ama-assn.org/

Freshmen and sophomores 
Dr. Jeanne McMachlin 
Dept. of Biological Sciences
SCEN 625
(479) 575-5348
jeannem@uark.edu

Juniors and seniors
Dr. Neil Allison
Liebolt Chair of Premedical Sciences
Dept. of Chemistry
PHNX F05
(479) 575-5179
nallison@uark.edu

What do medical technologists do? Medical technologists perform analyses on blood, serum, urine, and other body fluids. Information from these procedures aids in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of patients. In addition to performing a variety of laboratory tests and reporting results, medical technologists maintain laboratory supplies and equipment and in some settings supervise other lab personnel. Med techs work in laboratories in a variety of settings ranging from hospitals to research centers to crime labs.

How much do they make? UAMS reports that the average starting salaries in 2001 ranged from $28,000 - $32,000. The national median annual earnings of medical technologists were $40,510 in 2000, with the middle 50 percent earning between $34,220 and $47,460.

What's the job outlook? Medical technology will probably grow about as fast as the average for all professions through 2010. New technology is expected to have opposing effects on the field. More and better tests should encourage more testing, and thus create the need for more med techs to perform tests. On the other hand, new developments may result in faster and easier tests which can be performed by fewer professionals. Many job openings in medical technology will result from turnover and retirement rather than from growth.

What personal qualities are required for medical technology? Would be med techs should be interested in science, computers, and math. They must be detail-oriented, patient and good at problem solving. Good communication and interpersonal skills are helpful, and manual dexterity is essential.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a medical technology program? The following information is for the Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology at UAMS. Requirements vary from school to school.

6 hours of English
6 hours of Western civilization
3 hours of history or American national government
6 hours of social science
3 hours of communication
3 hours of fine arts
3 hours of humanities
4 hours of biology
4 hours of biology electives
4 hours of physiology
4 hours of microbiology
8 hours of general chemistry
3 hours of mathematics
12 hours of electives
Total: 69

How long would a medical technology program last? The professional program at UAMS is 4 semesters (2 years) for full-time students and 6 semesters (3 years) for part-time students.

What would a medical technology program be like? The Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology requires a minimum of 69 hours of pre-professional course work and 55 hours of professional course work. The first two semesters consist of courses in hematology, biochemistry, microbiology and related subjects. The last two focus on laboratory management and internships in various settings.

What do nuclear medicine technologists do? Nuclear medicine technologists administer radioactive substances to patients and track and record their passage through the body. They perform a variety of these procedures to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating diseases. They explain procedures to patients, introduce the radioactive substances orally or by injection, and use special cameras and computer imaging systems to record their behavior. They may also perform similar tests on blood or serum samples. Because radioactive substances are dangerous, they must adhere to strict handling and disposal guidelines.

Almost all nuclear medicine techs work in hospitals, but a few are employed in private clinics. They generally work 40-hour weeks and sometimes have to be on call.

How much do they make? UAMS reports starting salaries of around $40,000. Average hourly salaries range from $16-23.

What's the job outlook? Employment of nuclear medicine technologists is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through the year 2010. Because the occupation is small the number of job openings each year will be low, but new technology may increase the uses for nuclear medicine in areas other than oncology.

What personal qualities are required for nuclear medicine? Because nuclear medicine technologists are on their feet much of the day, and may lift or turn disabled patients, physical stamina is important. Good communication skills, empathy and understanding are important for interacting with patients who are stressed out and afraid.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a nuclear medicine program? To apply to UAMS, students must complete 85 hours, including:

3 hours of anatomy and physiology
4 hours of physics
8 hours of general chemistry
3 hours of college algebra
3 hours of communications
6 hours of English composition
3 hours of American history or government
3 hours of fine arts
3 hours of humanities
6 hours of social sciences
Also recommended are additional courses in science, social science and health education.

How long does the program last? UAMS awards a Bachelor of Science degree in nuclear medicine technology which requires 3 years of pre-professional course work and 1 year of professional course work, including the summer following the senior year.

What would the program be like? Students take courses in nuclear physics, clinical procedures, radiopharmacy, etc., and they participate in three semesters of internships for a total of 39 hours.

The Society of Nuclear Medicine-Technologist Section
1850 Samuel Morse Dr., Reston, VA 22090

What do nurse anesthetists do? Nurse anesthesia is an advanced clinical nursing specialty. According to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) administer approximately two-thirds of anesthetics given to patients in the United States each year. CRNA's takes care of a patient's anesthesia needs before, during, and after surgery or the delivery of a baby by: performing a physical assessment, participating in preoperative teaching, preparing for anesthetic management, administering anesthesia to keep the patient pain free, maintaining anesthesia intraoperatively, overseeing recovery from anesthesia, and following the patient's postoperative course from recovery room to patient care unit. CRNAs work with surgeons, dentists, podiatrists, and anesthesiologists. CRNAs practice in hospital operating rooms, ambulatory surgery centers, pain clinics, and physician's offices. CRNAs take care of patients before, during, and after surgical or obstetrical procedures. CRNAs are with their patient during the entire procedure, constantly monitoring every important body function and individually modifying the anesthetic to ensure maximum safety and comfort.

How much do they make? According to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, the average annual salary in 2000 was approximately $105,000 annually. CRNAs are one of the best paid nursing specialties in the United States.

What's the job outlook? CRNAs are in high demand and have many opportunities to pursue general or specialty practice. The employment outlook is excellent.

What personal qualities are required for Nurse Anesthetists? Due to the critical nature of this profession, it is essential that nurse anesthetists be able to communicate clearly with their colleagues, make decisions often in a hurried manner, possess excellent analytical abilities, and have a caring, genuine personality.

Which courses would I have to take to apply to a Nurse Anesthetists program? Requirements for admission are a bachelor's of science in nursing or an appropriate degree (as determined by the prospective applicant's program), a license as a registered nurse, and a minimum of one year of acute care nursing experience.

How long does the program last? Typical programs last anywhere from 24 to 36 months of graduate course work, including classroom and clinical experiences. All programs in nurse anesthesia education offer a master's degree, which may be in nursing, allied health, or biological/clinical sciences, depending of the applicant's program.

What would the program be like? The classroom coursework includes studies in anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, and pharmacology. Clinical internship experiences provide students with a variety of anesthesia techniques and procedures for different types of surgery.

Southwest Missouri School of Anesthesia
1235 E. Cherokee, Springfield, MO 65804
Contacts: William O. Kirk, Program Director or Glenn A. Fromme, Medical Director (417) 885-6890.

Athletic Trainer	Emergency Medical Technician	Ophthalmic Medical Technologist	Radiologic Technologists
Chiropractor	Health Information Technician	Optometrist	Registered Nurse
Cytotechnologist	Licensed Practical Nurse	Orthotist/Prosthetist	Respiratory Therapist
Dental Hygienist	Medical Doctor	Pathologists' Assistant	Speech Pathologist
Dentist	Medical Technologist	Perfusionist	Surgical Technologist
Diagnostic Medical Sonography	Nuclear Medicine Technologist	Pharmacist	Sports Medicine
Dietitian	Nurse Anesthetist	Physical Therapist	Other Resources
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine	Occupational Therapist	Physical Therapists' Assistant
Doctor of Podiatric Medicine	Occupational Therapy Assistant	Physician Assistant

Nutrition in Health Wellness Concepts	Human Anatomy and Lab
Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries Exercise Physiology	Mechanics of Human Movement Human Physiology and Lab