Even during the current economic downturn, job experts point to the health care industry as the employment mother lode, offering careers with solid incomes and long-term promise.  With over 500K jobs added in this sector since the start of the recession, it is hard to disagree.  However, some recent findings from the U.S. Department of Labor indicate that even the world of health care isn’t completely recession-proof.

The over-all tightening of credit has had an impact on some hospitals and other medical facilities, especially because some patients are putting treatment plans on hold.  But even with these considerations, job experts see this as a “short term” slowdown and are still bullish on the health care industry.  Pointing to the wave of baby boomers beginning to hit retirement age, these gurus predict that the demand for health care services will remain strong regardless of the economy.

Here ten health care career choices that experts in the field consider to be recession-proof.  If you are considering a career in this booming field, take a look at these professions and then let Top Colleges help pair you with an education or training program that works for you.

Audiologist – Leave it to Bill Clinton to make hearing aides a hip accessory for aging baby boomers. Using breakthrough technologies, these new devices are revolutionizing the opportunites and options for the hearing-impaired.
Biomedical Equipment Technician Advances in medical science have brought about giant leaps in medical technology. Monitoring devices and diagnostic equipment like MRIs are a vital part of hospitals and medical centers. Keeping these amazing machines in tip-top shape is a full time business and a great career choice.
Genetic Counselor – Scientists are constantly unlocking the genetic code and discovering clues that can affect long-term health. Genetic counselors are trained professionals who help patients interpret genetic tests and make informed decisions.
Registered Nurses – The need is huge, the opportunities are endless, and the rewards are great. Is there anything left to say?
Occupational Therapist – Whether they are working in a rehabilitation facility or in the field, occupational therapists have a real, hands-on opportunity to make a difference the people’s lives.
Optometrist – Just about every vision center has in-house optometrists on staff, professionals who perform eye examinations and prescribe lens and contact lenses. With many health insurance plans covering yearly eye exams, these professionals are in demand.
Pharmacist – These pros don’t just fill prescriptions, they help educate the public about health screening and keep track of your medical history.
Physical Therapist – Sports teams, dance companies, small children, grandmas and grandpas — there isn’t a demographic group that doesn’t call on the skills of physical therapists and PT’s report great satisfaction with their career choice.
Physician Assistant – These highly-trained professionals are gaining recognition with patients and doctors. The rewards, both financial and personal, are excellent and projected to just get better.
Surgical Technologist – A great ‘earn while you learn’ job that requires a short training program. Working in the OR with surgeons and nurses offers surgical techs the opportunity to explore other facets of the health care profession.