The world of healthcare is demanding. Professionals working in this $6,263.7 billion industry have to give countless hours of dedication to improve patients’ lives.
However, many healthcare professionals are seeking side gigs to diversify their income streams, explore personal interests, or expand their professional expertise. These opportunities not only provide additional financial stability but also create a sense of fulfillment outside their primary roles.
From teaching to telehealth, there are numerous ways healthcare professionals can leverage their skills and passions.
#1 Teaching the Next Generation of Caregivers
Many healthcare professionals find immense satisfaction in sharing their knowledge with students eager to join the field. Teaching, whether in nursing schools, medical colleges, or community programs, allows professionals to mold the next generation of caregivers.
This side gig offers flexibility, as opportunities often include online lectures, workshops, or part-time faculty roles. By teaching, healthcare workers revisit foundational principles, stay updated on new developments, and contribute meaningfully to the profession’s future.
How much do medicine professors earn in the US?
In the US, a professor of medicine with a JD, MD, PhD, or equivalent degree can earn as little as $135,358 per year. This salary can be as high as $304,826 per year. The median salary of a medicine professor in the US is $178,518.
#2 Writing and Content Creation in the Medical Field
The healthcare sector relies heavily on accurate and reliable information, creating a demand for professionals who can articulate complex concepts clearly. Healthcare workers can venture into medical writing, whether through publishing blogs, contributing to journals, or developing patient education materials.
With a deep understanding of medical terminology and patient care, they can address topics ranging from disease prevention to healthcare policy.
Medical professionals can also explore podcasting or creating video content tailored to public health education. These creative endeavors not only amplify their voices but also empower communities with credible, actionable knowledge.
How much can a medical content writer make in the US?
The average hourly pay for a medical content writer in the US is $40.46. Hourly wages for medical content writers can be as high as $99.52 and as low as $13.70. It is important to note that medical professionals earn on the upper scale of this range.
#3 Embracing Telehealth for Flexible Patient Care
The surge in telehealth services has opened doors for healthcare professionals to provide remote care. A side gig in this $46.03 billion market is particularly appealing for those looking to practice medicine away from a traditional clinical setting.
Telehealth enables professionals to connect with patients, manage chronic conditions, or provide mental health counseling from the comfort of their homes. In addition to offering flexibility, telehealth enhances accessibility for patients in remote areas or those with limited mobility.
Healthcare providers who embrace this opportunity play a pivotal role in bridging gaps in healthcare delivery, making quality care more inclusive and widespread.
#4 Engaging in Social Work Professionally
For healthcare professionals drawn to the human aspect of care, pursuing social work as a side gig can be profoundly rewarding. The field of social work is deeply rooted in understanding human behavior within the context of the social environment.
With an online master’s in social work (MSW degree), professionals can expand their knowledge and explore new dimensions of helping others. Social workers address the needs of diverse populations, focusing on building stronger communities and improving individual well-being. This side gig allows healthcare professionals to work with patients outside the confines of traditional medical care.
Moreover, the flexibility of modern education makes it easier than ever to acquire the skills necessary for social work. As noted by St. Bonaventure University, online programs provide individuals the opportunity to earn a degree without disrupting their primary careers. This additional qualification opens doors to roles in counseling, advocacy, and community development.
#5 Research and Clinical Trials
For those intrigued by the investigative side of medicine, participating in or coordinating research and clinical trials can be an exciting avenue. Healthcare professionals are vital to advancing medical science, whether through conducting trials, collecting data, or ensuring ethical standards are met.
This work often complements their primary roles, as it draws on their clinical skills and expertise. Furthermore, research involvement keeps professionals at the forefront of medical advancements, enriching their knowledge while contributing to breakthroughs that can save lives.
The flexibility of this gig allows for varying levels of involvement, from part-time roles in large-scale studies to occasional consultation for smaller research initiatives. Regardless of the scale, the impact of their work resonates far beyond the laboratory, shaping the future of healthcare.
How do clinical trials work?
Clinical trials test new medical treatments, drugs, or procedures for safety and effectiveness in humans. They follow a structured process, starting with small groups to assess safety, and then larger groups to evaluate effectiveness and side effects. Participants are often randomly assigned to receive the treatment or a placebo. The data gathered helps determine if the treatment can be approved for widespread use.
Side gigs provide healthcare professionals with more than just financial rewards. They offer avenues for personal growth, professional development, and meaningful impact.
While the demands of the healthcare profession are significant, these side gigs remind professionals of the breadth of their capabilities. Balancing these roles with their primary responsibilities may require careful planning, but the rewards – both tangible and intangible – make the effort worthwhile.
