4-Year Journey to Success Pre-Health Programs

Dentists diagnose, prevent, and treat issues related to the teeth, gums, and overall oral health. They perform routine examinations, fill cavities, extract teeth, and address oral diseases. Some dentists specialize in areas such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery. Most dentists work in private practice, while others are employed in hospitals, research institutions, public health agencies, or academic settings. They also educate patients on proper oral hygiene and may use advanced technologies such as digital imaging and laser dentistry. Licensing is required in all states, typically involving a dental degree and passing national and state exams.

Physicians diagnose and treat various medical conditions, with many specializing in specific areas like cardiology, neurology, or pediatrics. Depending on their specialty, they perform procedures, prescribe medications, and offer advice tailored to their field of expertise. Physicians may choose from a variety of settings such as working in a managed care system (HMO, PPO), a clinic, hospital, laboratory, industrial, or military venues, or in a combination of these.

Occupational therapists work with individuals who struggle with physical or psychological dysfunction. They help patients improve basic motor functions, enhance cognitive abilities, and adapt to permanent functional loss. Common conditions treated include stroke, paralysis, brain injuries, hand and arm trauma, arthritis, developmental disabilities, and mental health disorders. Occupational therapists assist patients with various activities, from using a computer to managing daily tasks such as dressing, cooking, and eating. They practice in diverse settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, geriatric homes, outpatient clinics, home-care programs, and private practice.

Optometrists provide essential vision care, diagnosing and managing eye conditions while prescribing glasses or contact lenses. They examine patients to detect vision problems, eye diseases, and issues related to depth perception, color vision, and eye coordination. While most work in general practice, some specialize in pediatric or geriatric eye care, low vision rehabilitation, contact lenses, or vision therapy. Others focus on occupational vision safety or research. In addition to clinical practice, optometrists may teach, conduct research, consult, or serve on health advisory committees.

Orthotists and prosthetists design, create, and fit custom orthopedic braces and prosthetic limbs to enhance mobility and quality of life for individuals with limb loss or musculoskeletal conditions. They collaborate with physicians and rehabilitation teams to assess patient needs and develop tailored solutions. Advances in technology, including 3D printing and AI-driven design, have improved the functionality and comfort of these devices. Professionals in this field work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and specialized clinics, with opportunities in research, device innovation, and international humanitarian efforts. Many orthotics and prosthetics professionals pursue certification through the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABCOP) and undergo extensive clinical training.

Pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare, working in hospitals, clinics, community pharmacies, and research institutions. Beyond dispensing medications, they ensure patient safety, provide counseling, and collaborate with healthcare teams to optimize treatment. Pharmacists can specialize in areas such as geriatric care, nuclear pharmacy, and sterile compounding. They contribute to public health through immunization programs, chronic disease management, and addressing medication safety concerns. Some work in policy development, academia, pharmaceutical research, or government agencies like the FDA and VA. With the rise of telehealth, pharmacists are increasingly involved in remote patient care and digital health solutions.

Physical therapists improve mobility, relieve pain, and prevent or limit permanent physical disabilities of patients suffering from injuries and disease. Treatment often includes exercise to improve strength, balance, coordination and endurance for patients who have been immobilized and lack flexibility. Physical therapists also use electrical stimulation, hot and/or cold compresses, and ultrasound to relieve pain, improve the condition of muscles and related tissues, and to reduce swelling. A physical therapist can specialize in different areas of the field such as fitness, wellness and sports medicine. They are qualified to work in clinics, rehabilitation centers, acute-care and general hospitals, private and governmental agencies, the school systems with handicapped children, or be self employed.

Physician Assistants (PAs) are highly trained medical professionals who collaborate with physicians while exercising autonomy in medical decision-making. They provide diagnostic, therapeutic, preventive, and health maintenance services across all medical specialties, including primary care, emergency medicine, and surgery. PAs assist in surgical procedures, provide pre- and post-operative care, and manage critical duties such as taking medical histories, performing exams, ordering tests, prescribing medications, and educating patients. By enhancing access to care and maintaining high-quality treatment, PAs play a vital role in the healthcare system.

Veterinarians are dedicated professionals who specialize in maintaining and improving the health of animals, including pets, livestock, and those in zoos or wildlife preserves. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of medical, surgical, dental, and rehabilitative care for sick or injured animals. Veterinarians diagnose diseases, prescribe medications, administer vaccinations, and educate pet owners on topics like weight management and senior pet care. Some contribute to public health by studying diseases that affect both animals and humans or by serving as food safety inspectors. Others engage in research to advance animal welfare and publish their findings in veterinary journals.