A rising demand has been seen for specialised healthcare services, suggesting that as a support system for doctors, paramedics are making a significant difference in patients’ lives. Playing an important role in improving healthcare delivery, the paramedics ensure that the healthcare sector runs smoothly. As the healthcare business expands and evolves, there is a greater demand for trained workers to assist and complement physicians and doctors in not just hospitals but in small clinics too.

While the medical professionals determine the diagnosis and develop treatment plans, the paramedical professionals are in charge of administering therapies, providing patient care, and aiding medical professionals with their duties. They can evaluate and treat the patients in case of emergency in the designated department of the hospital. They consist of health care assistants, lab technicians, therapists, sanitarians, technologists, emergency assistants etc who often have a diploma or degree in relevant field.

Here are in-depth details shared by Mr Sukanta Parida, Director of Admission and Marketing, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Odisha & Andhra Pradesh on why it is wise to pursue a career in paramedics in India.

WHAT ALL IT OFFERS?

An allied health career in India offers a wide range of prospects. Such allied healthcare workers can pursue a variety of careers based on their interests and expertise, including working in hospitals and clinics, research institutions, and public health organisations.

Hospitals and clinics are the principal work settings for allied health workers. They work alongside doctors to provide patient care, perform specialised tests, interpret results, and ensure an accurate diagnosis.

They can also help with public health initiatives by working in community health centres, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and government organisations to promote preventative care, educate communities, and support public health campaigns.

Furthermore, research and innovation play an essential part in the healthcare industry. As a result, students of allied health sciences can participate to research projects, clinical trials, and technology innovations that will influence the future of healthcare delivery in India.

Specialised services are rapidly expanding in India’s healthcare sector, owing to advances in medical technology. Pursuing a career in Allied Health allows individuals to address the growing demand for specialised services while collaborating with other healthcare professionals.

THE STATISTICS

It is not surprising that in 2023, about 20.87 lakh students in India took the NEET exam, seeking to work in the healthcare and associated health industries. As there are only 1.01 lakh+ MBBS seats in India according to last year’s data, the allied health care industry gives an opportunity for these aspirants to pursue a career as second-line doctors.

Similarly, this year, 23 lakh + students have registered for NEET exam. The current demand and supply gap for doctors can only be filled by these paramedics. These allied health workers have an important role in diagnostics, patient care, and public health.