HEALTH EDUCATOR
WHAT IS A HEALTH EDUCATOR?
Health educators provide information and knowledge on health issues and concerns to the public. They address lifestyle and health issues such as nutrition, diabetes, HIV, STDs, substance abuse, and pregnancy. Professionals in this field work with a variety of topics including both lifestyle issues and general health concerns. They may be involved in conducting either community or individual needs assessments. The assessment is followed by planning, implementing, disseminating, and evaluating educational programs to meet the identified needs of the individual or community. In addition, educators develop and evaluate educational materials to be used by the educator or to be distributed to the general public. Health educators may also participate in research projects throughout the health care industry. The goal of health educators is to prevent disease and promote health through knowledge and behavior change.
HOW DO I BECOME A HEALTH EDUCATOR?
A four-year bachelor’s degree in health studies and/or community health is required. Graduate and doctoral degrees are also available within the field. Health Educators may be certified as health education specialists through the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing. To receive this certification, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and pass a comprehensive written exam.
AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION
Areas of specialization for health educators vary, depending on the type of employment. Some may work in a specific area of health care and focus on a limited number of health concerns, such as diabetes prevention, HIV, STDs, and cancer. Others may work in general health care and deal with a spectrum of health care issues.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Health educators work in a variety of areas. Many work for local health departments, schools, and colleges, community and volunteer organizations, and corporations.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The job outlook for this profession is very good. The need for health educators will increase with the shifting focus on preventative health care by the medical and corporate community.
PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES:
American Public Health Association
800 I street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 777-2742
www.apha.org