5 questions to consider when studying Allied Health Sciences

Despite popular belief, you can work in the healthcare industry without being a doctor. In fact, six out of ten health professionals are doing that through Allied Health Sciences.

Here's what to look for when considering an institution for this field.

Healthcare cannot stand alone without the skilled professionals trained in providing services to other professionals and patients. That's why Allied Health Sciences is a great sector to pursue.

We asked Director Lee Wee Loong of Vision College these 5 crucial questions you need to consider before deciding on an Allied Health Sciences programme:

1. Will it build your skill and experience?

Learn the tools of your trade - and be ready to spend lots of time with it.

This field requires exposure and practical experience with equipment related to your choice of course.

Find an institution that focuses their courses on offering healthcare facilities for students to build practical experience and entrepreneurial attitude.

For example, Vision College has an in-house diagnostic centre in Tawau, Sabah; the first private institution (IPTS) in Malaysia to have one.

2. Will you have good career options?

In Malaysia, such training are increasing in demand with a high employment rate.

Based on the National Healthcare Establishment and Workforce Statistics Hospital 2012-2013 by the Malaysia Ministry of Health (MOH), the higher density of mammogram machines influenced the increase in the screening for breast cancer detection. The ability to operate these machines are thus being sought for the improvement of diagnostics and detection in Malaysia.

Because courses like Medical Imaging within Allied Health Sciences are niched areas, institutions look for graduates with a strong knowledge in the field who can do this.

3. Will you have a supportive study environment?

Look for a campus with a good student-teacher environment to work with to help you in your studies as well as to build a sense of community.

Allied health professions involve working in a team as you will assist others in healthcare services. So expect to work closely with other professionals in the healthcare team, as this is your general job description.

At the same time, look for inspiring and supportive professionals and faculty members who will help in building a positive study and work environment. A passionate team marks an enriching experience in your course and field. Often times, as in the case for Vision College, your faculty members are health professionals themselves who will guide you and oversee your work.

4. Will your training be recognised?

Gaining recognition locally and worldwide means that you are getting the quality of training required in your field. You will also have the ability to conduct your practice anywhere.

Vision College’s courses, for example, are recognised worldwide and they have graduates working in Australia.

5. Will it help you communicate your skills better?

You will have to assist patients, so learning to speak good and basic English cannot be overlooked.

Communication also means being able to express empathy and extend kindness to gain patients' trust.

Look for a college that emphasises a good English programme. This shows that they aspire for better quality and care for their students' interests. This especially includes institutions that base their English classes on recognised certificates such as the MUET, iELTS and TOEFL.

You may find these articles helpful:

Clear comparison between MUET, IELTS and TOEFL

Six ways to secure Band 6 in MUET your teacher won’t tell you

3 Steps to jumpstart your MUET preparations

5 pro tips to ace ANY English tests (including MUET!)

Remember to choose a course that you find purposeful to your life goals and to the people around you.

For more information on Allied Health Science courses, look to institutions such as Vision College that offers programs in Biomedical Technology, Health Science, Medical Imaging, Opticianry and Physiotherapy as well as Nursing.

For details on the institution, staff and courses, please visit their website as well as their staff blog.