Out-of-box options in health care

The health care industry is not just about nurses and doctors, but offers opportunities for out-of-the-box specialisations which are picking up steam in today’s technologically advanced age.

Paramedicine
A lot of paramedical courses, like nursing, occupational therapy, physio-therapy among others, are on rise.  Private nursing too is a good option. Says counsellor RSS Mani, “Due to improved drugs, senior citizens have a longer life span but not necessarily a healthy life. Hence, the demand for private nurses or home nurses.’’

Also, nursing is no longer a female-only profession, says counsellor Suchitra Surve, adding that, “Though in India we tend to look at male nurses as ward boys, they are, in fact, quite popular abroad.’’

Radiation medicine
Given the increase in lifestyle-related diseases and also the growing number of cancer patients, doctors always prescribe a battery of tests for curing any disease.  Such professionals handle the X-Rays, CT-Scans, administer chemo-therapy, etc.  Institutes like Tata Memorial Hospital have a lot of diploma courses available for such specialisations.

Sport medicine
A perfect choice for those who want to mix medicine and sports. Sports medicine is picking up in India, Mani adds that there is a lot of money in sports medicine as players today, pay special attention to their fitness.  National Institutes like National Institute of Sports in Patiala and Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Sports Management in South India offer such specialisation.

Hospital administration
If you think that being a doctor could mean getting stuck in a rut, think again. After a few years in the field, many doctors are also pursuing a diploma or masters in management (MBA degrees) and taking on administration roles such as heads of hospitals or department. Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has some of the best courses for management in the health care industry. 

E-medical consultation
Like everybody else, even doctors are going online.  Doctors are providing online consultations which has turned into a lucrative business as many a time patients are not satisfied with their doctors and are constantly seeking second opinions.

Nutritionist
Nutritionists or diet consultants are a must in private hospitals and gyms. Many corporate houses, big restaurants devising a healthy menu have such professionals on their payrolls. Celebrities have a personal dietician or fitness expert to ensure that they are eating right.