Health authorization: what to do if your degree is not in healthcare - practical psychology

Do you dream of working in the health sector but your university degree is not directly related to healthcare? Don’t worry, not all is lost! Health authorization is the process that allows you, in certain circumstances, to access jobs in the health field, even if your initial training is not strictly healthcare-related. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about health authorization if your degree is not in health, the requirements, alternatives and tips to achieve your professional goal.

What Is Health Authorization and Why Is It Necessary?

Health authorization is, in essence, an administrative authorization that allows you to practice a health profession in Spain. It is crucial to understand that not all jobs in the health sector require a specific health degree. For example, quality management in a hospital, the administration of a clinic or research in a laboratory can be accessible with non-health degrees, provided that certain requirements are met and the corresponding authorization is obtained.

The need for health authorization arises to guarantee the safety and quality of the care offered to patients. By regulating access to certain positions, health authorities ensure that professionals working in the sector have the necessary training and competencies to perform their duties effectively and safely.

General Requirements for Health Authorization with a Non-Health Degree

The specific requirements to obtain health authorization with a non-health degree vary depending on the position you aspire to and the autonomous community in which you wish to practice. However, there are some general requirements that are usually common:

• University Degree: You must hold an official university degree, even if it is not in health. The relevance of your degree to the position you are applying for will be a key factor.
• Complementary Training: In most cases, specific complementary training related to the healthcare field is required. This may include courses, master’s degrees or specialization programs.
• Work Experience: Some calls require prior work experience in the health sector, even if not in a position directly related to your degree.
• Passing Examinations: In some cases, it is necessary to pass theoretical or practical examinations to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the healthcare field.
• Registration in the Professional Registry: Once the authorization is obtained, it is necessary to register in the corresponding professional registry of the autonomous community in which you will practice.

Alternatives and Complementary Training for Non-Health Degrees

If your degree is not in health, don’t be discouraged. There are numerous alternatives and options for complementary training that will allow you to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to obtain health authorization and work in the health sector:

• Master’s Degrees in Healthcare Management: These master’s programs provide a global view of the healthcare system and prepare you for management and administrative positions in hospitals, clinics and health centers.
• Specialization Courses in Healthcare Quality: If you are interested in continuous quality improvement in the healthcare field, these courses will provide you with the necessary tools and techniques.
• Training in Occupational Risk Prevention in the Healthcare Sector: This training is fundamental to guarantee the safety and health of workers in the health sector.
• Patient Care Courses: If you are interested in direct patient contact, these courses will teach you the communication and empathy skills required.
• Postgraduate Degrees in Bioethics: If you are interested in the ethical dilemmas related to medical care and biomedical research, a postgraduate degree in bioethics can open doors in ethics committees and in complex decision-making processes.

Examples of Health Professions Accessible with Non-Health Degrees

Although most health professions require a specific degree from the health sector, there are some areas in which a non-health degree, combined with appropriate complementary training, can open doors:

• Quality Manager in a Hospital: A graduate in Business Administration or Industrial Engineering, with a master’s in healthcare management, can be responsible for implementing quality and safety management systems in a hospital.
• Administrative Officer in a Clinic: A graduate in Law or Economics can work as an administrative officer in a clinic, managing billing, accounting and human resources.
• Researcher in a Laboratory: A graduate in Biology or Chemistry can work as a researcher in a laboratory, performing analyses and experiments.
• Occupational Risk Prevention Technician at a Health Center: A graduate in Engineering or Environmental Sciences can be in charge of occupational risk prevention at a health center.
• Communications Manager at a Healthcare Foundation: A graduate in Journalism or Marketing can manage the communication and image of a healthcare foundation.

Key Tips for Obtaining Health Authorization

Obtaining health authorization with a non-health degree can be a complex process, but with proper planning and strategy, you can achieve your goal:

• Research Thoroughly: Find out about the specific requirements for the position you are applying for in the autonomous community where you wish to practice.
• Choose the Appropriate Complementary Training: Select courses, master’s programs or specialization programs that are relevant to the position you are aiming for and that are recognized by the health authorities.
• Gain Work Experience: Look for opportunities to gain work experience in the health sector, even as a volunteer or in positions not directly related to your degree.
• Prepare a Solid Application: Submit a complete and well-documented application, highlighting your relevant skills, knowledge and experience.
• Stay Updated: The health sector is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay updated on the latest trends and developments.

Useful Resources for Health Authorization

Here are some useful resources that will help you obtain health authorization:

• Ministry of Health: The Ministry of Health website offers general information about health authorization and the requirements to practice health professions in Spain.
• Health Departments of the Autonomous Communities: The health departments of each autonomous community are responsible for regulating health authorization in their territory.
• Professional Associations: The professional associations of each health profession offer information and advice on authorization and professional practice.
• Job Platforms Specialized in the Health Sector: These platforms will help you find job offers in the health sector that match your profile.