2-Year Journey to Success Pre-Health Programs

Speech-language pathologists treat persons with speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders. They use specialized instruments as well as written or oral tests to determine the nature and extent of impairment, and to record and analyze speech irregularities. For individuals with little or no speech, speech-language pathologists choose alternative communication systems, including automated devices and sign language, and teach their use

Audiologists treat persons with hearing related disorders. They use audiometers and other testing devices to measure loudness and the level at which a person begins to hear sounds. They also measure the patient’s ability to distinguish between sounds and extent of their hearing loss. Audiologists can work in clinical settings or in the field where they can test noise levels in workplaces and conduct hearing protection programs.

Many speech pathologists are employed in public schools. Other speech pathologists and most audiologists work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, college or community speech and hearing clinics, or in private practice.

Dental Hygienists work in dental offices, school system, health-related or governmental agencies, or teach in schools of dental hygiene. The dental hygienist cleans teeth and provides other preventive dental care as well as teaches patients how to practice good oral hygiene. Hygienists examine patients’ teeth and gums, recording the presence of disease and/or abnormalities. They remove stains and plaque from teeth; take and develop dental x-rays; place temporary fillings and periodontal dressings; and smooth and polish metal restorations.

The Health Information Management manages health information systems that serve the needs of patients, the healthcare team, and the administration staff. These administrators have opportunities to assist in the development of health information systems for quality patient care, financial reimbursement, and healthcare quality evaluations.

One of the career options chosen by Health Information Managers is the management of a health information department. Here the manager will determine department policies, budget department resources and provide leadership in planning and organizing the department.

Many Health Information Administrators are employed by hospitals and medical centers in large urban areas. Others find employment opportunities within insurance companies, health management organizations, software vendors and in private facilities. 

Nurses are an integral part of the health care team. Nurses help patients cope with illness and provide the care needed for each patient. The BSN prepares students for professional nursing in acute and community settings. Nurses may also serve as advocates for patients, families and communities. Nurses may find employment in private and public health agencies, doctor’s offices, hospitals, rehabilitative centers, clinics, schools, industry, and nursing homes.

The Registered Dietitian (RD) is a supportive member of the professional health care team who directs nutritional care to achieve optimal health of individuals and groups. Dietitians and nutritionists promote healthy eating habits, evaluates clients’ diets, and suggests diet modifications to help prevent disease and treat illnesses. RDs who manage large scale food service systems for institutions such as hospitals, prison and schools are usually referred to as Management Dietitians. Consultant Dietitians, often work under contract with various entities such as with sport teams, extended health care facilities or in a group or private practice. Dietitians in Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) assess nutritional needs of patients, prescribe a therapeutic plan, and assess the results. Community Dietitians work in public health clinics, supermarkets and home health agencies. Within the last few years, interest in nutrition has led to opportunities in food manufacturing, advertising and marketing. Some dietitians engage in research activities to enhance the profession.

Orthotists design, make, and fit adaptive orthopedic braces, which are used to support weakened or defective body parts, such as the neck, back, and limbs. Prothetists design, make, and fit prostheses, which are artificial limbs or facial parts. These are used to replace body parts lost by injury or missing from birth. Professionals with this expertise are able to give new life and mobility to patients across the globe. Many of our Orthotics and Prosthetics pre-health students go on to further study at Loma Linda University, and become engaged in many aspects of national and international service. 

Most people take breathing for granted, but for thousands of people who suffer from breathing problems, each breath is a major accomplishment. Respiratory care practitioners treat patients of all ages from infants to adults. They provide relief, though temporary, to patients with chronic lung disease. They also provide emergency care to people who have suffered from heart attacks, strokes, drowning and shock. They teach patients and their families how to use breathing equipment and how to get the most out of their daily lives. Respiratory therapists mostly work in hospitals but they also work with home health agencies, respiratory therapy clinics, and extended care facilities.