7 Different Ways To Start A Medical Career As A Single Mother

Last Updated on October 20, 2023 by Lori Pace

There is no overestimating how difficult being a single parent is, especially when you are also juggling a full-time job. However, with the right tips and a strong support system, there are ways to take the first step up the career ladder and secure your dream in medical career. 

Start with the tips below for single mothers who want to pursue career in medical field!

7 Ways For Single Moms To Start A Medical Career

Learn What To Expect From Your Education Journey In Medical Career

A career in healthcare can be an extremely exciting and rewarding one but it is certainly not an easy one. That is why before committing to a job in healthcare, it is crucial to understand what’s ahead – especially now that the global healthcare system is facing unprecedented pressure and nearly 1 in 5 healthcare workers have quit their jobs.

Learn What To Expect From Your Education Journey In Medical Career

If you are unsure what to expect, consider talking to other professionals in the industry and ask them to share their experience in terms of education costs, salary expectations, and time commitment. This simple strategy can help you prepare for the journey ahead!

Rely On A Strong Support System For Medical Career

Regardless of what your dream job is, it is important to take the time you need to build a strong support network and make long-lasting arrangements before committing to a career in healthcare. 

This preparatory period includes finding high-quality childcare, speaking to your family and friends, and making sure that you have a system in place you can rely on. 

Look Into Becoming A Medical Assistant

One of the best ways to access the healthcare industry is to become a medical assistant. MAs work in a wide range of clinical and administrative settings, and their responsibilities span from getting patients ready for their examinations to managing medical records. 

What’s more, while a career as an MA can be intense, these professionals rarely have to deal with emergency care and can rely on unparalleled job security. 

If you opt for this career choice and plan to gain your qualifications while being a full-time single mother, make sure to find a school that operates locally. For example, if your goal is to become an MA in Atlantic City, a top-rated medical assistant program in New Jersey can help you maintain your current lifestyle while studying. 

Learn How To Combine Your Job As A Nurse With Being A Single Mother

If you are on your way to becoming an RN, you should keep in mind some of the best tips on how single parents can manage their career in nursing:

Learn How To Combine Your Job As A Nurse With Being A Single Mother
  • Don’t discard night shifts, especially if you can leave your child with grandparents or a nanny overnight
  • If you prefer only working during the daytime, consider becoming a school nurse or a home care nurse
  • Consulting nurses and research nurses may benefit from more stable work schedules that make it easier to plan for childcare and support
  • Avoid working in emergency care, as this role might lead to unpredictable work schedules and long shifts

Become A Specialist, i.e.: Speech-Language Pathologist Or Physical Therapist

Becoming a specialist will involve a significant commitment of time and effort while you finish your studies and gain the needed qualifications. However, if you are able to manage the challenges of a long academic journey, becoming a specialist can help you unlock unlimited earning potential and stable work schedules. 

Some great options for single mothers include becoming speech-language pathologists, dental hygienists, or physical therapists. 

Find An Office-Based or Remote Job In Healthcare, i.e.: Medical Writer

Although doctors and nurses cover critical roles in delivering high-quality care to patients, administrative roles are the true backbone of the sector! If you have experience in administration, management, or accountancy, you might consider these office-based or home-based jobs in healthcare:

  • Medical writer
  • Clinical manager or administrator
  • Nursing home manager or administrator
  • Pharmaceutical project manager
  • Medical administrative assistant
  • Medical HR professional or manager

Commit To Becoming A Doctor To Start Medical Career

Lastly, if your dream is to become a doctor, you might look into what it takes to become a physician. This might be a great alternative if you are able to juggle the academic load that comes from enrolling in medical school and are aware of the investment of time it requires to pursue a career as a doctor. 

However, if this option is accessible to you, there are benefits worth considering. For example, by the time you’ll start practicing as a fully licensed doctor, your little ones will be more independent, thus making it easier for you to pursue your career goals while juggling other duties!

What Is The Easiest Job In The Medical Field?

Many people usually have a misconception that landing a medical job requires a huge sacrifice of time for schooling. However, there are different routes that single moms can take to achieve their career in healthcare, with little schooling required. Especially, many positions don’t even require a bachelor’s degree to start with. Here are 12 jobs in medical field that are considered the easiest.

  1. Medical Office Secretary Jobs 
  2. Pharmacist Technician Jobs 
  3. Phlebotomist Jobs 
  4. Medical Transcriptionist Jobs 
  5. Phlebotomy Technician Jobs
  6. Physical Therapist Assistant Jobs 
  7. Surgical Technician Jobs
  8. Registered Nurse Jobs
  9. Ultrasound Technologist Jobs
  10. Healthcare Administrator Jobs
  11. Dental Hygienist Jobs 
  12. Radiation Therapist Jobs 
Lori Pace
Lori Pace

Lori Pace is a single mother of three daughters ages 7 and under. As a working mom from home, she balances kids, work and two crazy dogs with humor and love. Follow Lori as she honestly gives tips and advice based on her own experiences as a single mom!