L.A.'s Job Outlook For Health Educators Is Bright-Eyed
U.S. employers are still on a winning streak by hiring 295,000 new workers in February, indicating the economy is rejuvenating. One field of interest that remains robust is health education, with California reigning supreme in the number of professionals now helping patients and families maintain fine-feathered lifestyles.
In Los Angeles, health educators earn an average annual salary of nearly $65,000, with top specialists achieving yearly wages greater than $83,000, according to current employment data.
"This is an exciting time, because the Affordable Care Act has brought health education to the forefront," said Elvira Garay, a certified health educator at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. "It is a fun, rewarding and versatile position. You can provide direct patient education or work at the community level, helping people become healthier."
What distinguishes L.A.'s health educators?
"Because of Los Angeles' growing diverse population, health educators who can provide a service that is both culturally and linguistically appropriate are the ones most employers seek."
What defines a competent health educator?
"To be an effective health educator, you have to be passionate about improving the health of others. Health educators are also committed to living the healthiest lifestyle possible for themselves."
How will a health educator's role change by 2022?
"Health educators will need to think more outside the box to deliver service in new ways, such as utilizing available technology."
What is the best way to plan for a lasting vocation?
"To prepare for a sustainable career as a health educator, a person should get an undergraduate degree in health education and a master's degree in public health. Furthermore, participating in a public health internship program and engaging in volunteer work at a clinic or hospital will help provide a solid foundation."
What is your message to aspiring health educators?
"My advice to those interested in pursuing a career as a health educator is to become a certified health education specialist, and stay on top of your game by expanding your skills with additional training. I also encourage striving health educators to participate in health conferences and maintain affiliations with public health organizations."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
