Women have come a long way in healthcare and make up at least 50% of the healthcare workforce today. Healthcare is also one profession with fewer gender-based inequalities in terms of opportunities and financial compensation. The one obstacle that women face in healthcare is advancement for senior positions, but this is also slowly changing. However, there is sufficient evidence to show that women report higher job satisfaction in healthcare than in other professions.

For women interested in relaunching their careers or those returning to the workforce, there is no better time than this to enter the healthcare profession. There are countless opportunities at every level and in most specialties that offer great pay, a good lifestyle, and in some cases, a remote working option.

Here is an overview of some of the most rewarding careers for women in healthcare: 

1. Dentist: Women make up at least 60% of the dental workforce. Many female dentists run their own practice. In addition, several universities employ female dentists as academics. The field of dentistry offers excellent pay and allows women to manage their workload and hours as per their needs. It has been shown that patients trust female dentists more than their male counterparts in honesty and thoroughness. Female dentists also tend to have more empathy and spend more time with their patients. As long as women complete their degree in dentistry, pass the national exam and have a license to practice, dentistry can be an excellent career. 

2. Dietician: With obesity consistently increasing worldwide, the role of dietitians has taken on more meaning. Dietitians play an important role in assessing the nutritional status of patients, promoting healthy eating in society, working with pharmaceutical companies and government health agencies to develop better food products, and educating the public about the importance of maintaining a healthy diet. Dietitians are well paid and often have the flexibility to work remotely and provide consultation through teleconferencing. 

3. Nurse practitioner: Another rewarding career for women in healthcare is nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners are very well respected in healthcare and are also in demand. In addition, the job is well paid. Registered Nurses can also become nurse practitioners by completing two years of full-time clinical practice experience after their RN degree. In addition, women can enroll in accelerated BSN to DNP programs online if they are interested in pursuing this career. 

4. Optometrist: Women make up a large proportion of optometrists in North America. Unlike medicine, the length of the program is shorter, and it offers a flexible career with the ability to work part-time. Women like this field as it is low stress, not procedure-based, and the hours are great. It also offers significant income potential. 

5. Paramedic: Women only make up about 20% of paramedics in North America. To become a paramedic, one needs to complete a 2-year paramedic course and pass the national exam. The profession pays well and is ideal for women who are just starting their careers in healthcare. Hours can be tough but it can be extremely rewarding for people interested in providing emergency care and helping people in need. 

6. Pediatrician: Women interested in engaging with children and providing care to a younger population can opt for a career in pediatrics. Interested candidates must complete a 4-year residency program, pass the national exam and obtain a license. Once this is completed, women can work in a hospital or establish their own private practice. There are many opportunities in this area, and the ability to choose your own hours. 

7. Pharmacist: Pharmacy is another interesting specialty in healthcare. Pharmacists can earn good money and have excellent work hours and opportunities to advance, do research or join academia. It is also considered a respectable and prestigious position, and women can enjoy a healthy and comfortable work environment. 

8. Physical therapist: Women can also work as physical therapists either in private practice or government rehabilitation clinics. A career in physical therapy offers excellent pay, good working hours, opportunities to advance or perform research. However, one must complete a degree in physical therapy and a year of internship. In addition, candidates must pass the national exam and be licensed to work as physical therapists.

9. Physician Assistant: This is another profession where women can do really well. Becoming a Physician Assistant is a great career for those who love to take care of patients, work independently, have autonomy, and earn excellent pay. Getting into PA school is not as competitive as a medical school, but the academic workload is demanding. After graduation, one has to pass the national exam and become licensed.

10. Surgeon: Women only make up about 5-10% of surgeons in the country, so there is a great deal of opportunity and excellent income potential in this particular segment. This profession is well-suited for women willing to work hard and manage long and demanding shifts. The hours are long, weekend work and emergencies at night are common, and patients can be demanding. But for single women who like to work hard and make good money, becoming a surgeon can offer a very good income and lifestyle.

11. Veterinarian: Veterinarians make good money and have many opportunities to advance and work independently. However, one must complete a veterinary degree and have the required practical experience before working full-time. Candidates must also complete an internship, pass the national exam and become licensed.

Healthcare is a very lucrative profession. The COVID-19 pandemic has been very challenging for nurses and other essential healthcare workers, but at the same time, it has paved the way for many work-from-home opportunities. Many healthcare professionals like nutritionists, dieticians, general practitioners, physician assistants and pediatricians have been working from home during these challenging times. While teleconference is not a substitute for a physical exam, there are still more flexible opportunities in healthcare today than ever before.