Students may be wondering how to become a community health manager as more people are paying attention to their overall health these days. Not only do folks want to be fit and look good, they’re interested in preventative healthcare that will enable them to live long and productive lives. Jobs in community health can assist the public in achieving their health goals and staying on top of their needs. Take a look below to discover more about this career field.
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What Is a Community Health Manager?
Community health managers develop and execute health programs within their neighborhoods, towns and cities to educate and serve the public. Such programs may cover a variety of health topics meant to impact the overall wellness of participants. These professionals can work in a number of institutions such as government agencies, schools and nonprofit organizations. They can be administrators or coordinators of any type of facility that provides preventative or clinical health-related services to the community. Such programs may cover issues like STD prevention, healthy eating, disease mitigation and more. They are often responsible for managing and obtaining funding for their organizations, developing programming and hiring staff.
How to Become a Community Health Manager
In order to become a community health manager, students must attain at least a bachelor’s level degree in a health or science major. Areas to consider include biological sciences, health education, community health or health promotion. Often, a master’s degree in a specialization like epidemiology, healthcare administration or public health is preferred. The skills and information learned in this advanced degree can provide individuals with the specialized knowledge they need in particular aspects of health and wellness, along with practical knowledge of such things as leadership, fundraising and administration.
Why Gain Certifications and Experience
Along with particular specializations, candidates wanting to become a community health manager might wish to pursue particular certifications and gain hands-on experience. These types of credentials will make them more valuable in the job market and more desirable to prospective organizations. There are a variety of industry certifications to consider such as in the areas of healthcare finance, informatics or access. Not only do such certifications show employers great aptitude in these specific areas, it also demonstrates career dedication and interest in achieving excellence. Finally, there are various ways professionals can gain experience that will make them desirable candidates for community health positions. Joining professional organizations and becoming involved is a great way to learn and to network. As is attending industry conferences and events. Taking continuing education coursework is yet another avenue to pursue in order to gain knowledge in an area of specialization. A practicum or internship can provide needed hands-on experience also.
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The healthcare field is a broad one. There are a variety of ways to get involved. Becoming a community health manager is one avenue that many may not have considered before, but it can provide individuals with a rewarding career in health that allows them to utilize their leadership and educational skills.