ALLIED MEDICINE


What is Allied Medicine?   What do you call the allied medical professionals?

Allied medicine, also known as allied health or paramedical sciences, comprises a wide range of healthcare professions that work alongside doctors and nurses to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive services. These professionals contribute significantly to patient care and rehabilitation in India.

Professionals in Allied Medicine careers in India are often referred to as "allied health professionals"


Duties or Role of Allied Health Professionals in India
  • Assessment and Diagnosis: Evaluate and diagnose patients' medical conditions.
  • Treatment Planning: Develop customized treatment plans and interventions.
  • Therapeutic Interventions: Administer treatments and therapies.
  • Patient Education: Educate patients about conditions and preventive measures.
  • Diagnostic Procedures: Conduct tests and interpret results.
  • Rehabilitation and Recovery: Help patients regain functional independence.
  • Preventive Care: Promote health and disease prevention.
  • Patient Advocacy: Advocate for patients' rights and concerns.
  • Safety and Infection Control: Ensure patient and staff safety.
  • Research and Development: Contribute to healthcare research.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate patient records.
  • Professional Development: Stay updated with industry advancements.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work in healthcare teams.
  • Community Outreach: Engage in health education and awareness.
  • Quality Improvement: Enhance patient care and safety through best practices.

How to become an Allied Health Professional in India?

Step 1:  Choose a Specialization

Step 2:  Educational Qualifications:  For most allied health professions, you'll need to complete a Bachelor's degree program in the respective field. Some programs may also offer integrated Master's degrees.  Ensure that the program you choose is recognized by the respective regulatory body or council for that profession in India.

Step 3:  Internship or Clinical Training: Many allied health programs include mandatory internships or clinical rotations where you gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting. This practical training is essential for your professional development.

Step 4:  Licensing and Registration: After completing your education and internship, you may need to register with the appropriate state or national council for your profession. For example, physiotherapists may need to register with the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP) or the respective state physiotherapy council.


Types of Jobs:
  1. Physiotherapist: Physiotherapists help patients manage physical disabilities and improve mobility. They work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, sports clinics, and private practices.
  2.  Occupational Therapist: Occupational therapists assist individuals in developing or regaining skills necessary for daily life and work activities. They work in hospitals, schools, mental health facilities, and rehabilitation centers.
  3.  Speech Therapist: Speech therapists diagnose and treat speech and language disorders in children and adults. They can work in schools, hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
  4.  Clinical Psychologist: Clinical psychologists provide therapy and counseling to individuals with mental health disorders. They work in hospitals, mental health centers, and private practice.
  5.  Radiologic Technologist: Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment like X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRIs. They are employed in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and clinics.
  6.  Medical Laboratory Technologist: Medical lab technologists perform diagnostic tests on patient samples in laboratories. They work in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and research institutions.
  7.  Dietitian/Nutritionist: Dietitians and nutritionists provide dietary advice and counseling to promote health and manage medical conditions. They work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and wellness centers.
  8.  Respiratory Therapist: Respiratory therapists specialize in treating patients with breathing disorders. They work in hospitals, respiratory care units, and home healthcare settings.
  9. Cardiovascular Technologist: Cardiovascular technologists assist in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions. They are employed in hospitals and cardiac care centers.
  10.  Dental Hygienist: Dental hygienists provide oral health care services, including teeth cleaning and education on oral hygiene. They work in dental clinics and offices.
  11.  Prosthetist and Orthotist: Prosthetists and orthotists design and fit artificial limbs (prostheses) and orthopedic devices (orthoses). They work in orthopedic clinics and rehabilitation centers.

Employment sector or industry for Allied Medicine professionals in India
  •     Hospitals (Government, Private, Specialty)
  •     Rehabilitation Centers
  •     Clinics and Private Practices
  •     Educational Institutions
  •     Research and Development
  •     Government Health Programs
  •     Home Healthcare
  •     Sports and Fitness
  •     Aged Care Facilities
  •     Pharmaceutical Industry
  •     Telehealth and Telemedicine
  •     Medical Equipment and Device Companies
  •     Medical Tourism
  •     Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
  •     Schools and Special Education Centers