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Benefits analysts plan and coordinate compensation and benefits activities for organizations, ensuring that policies and programs are competitive and in compliance with legal requirements. They may identify and implement benefits with the aim of increasing the quality of life for employees by working with brokers and researching benefits issues. They communicate with employees about their benefits and compensation, assist them in benefits selections, and administer benefit programs.

VCU’s B.S. in Health Services prepares students for a wide range of careers in health care and lays the groundwork for those who seek graduate or other advanced education programs. One example for students to explore is the accelerated program from B.S. to M.S in Gerontology at VCU College of Health Professions.

Clinical managers plan, direct or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, and other health care organizations. They may supervise a range of personnel, develop and maintain records management systems, and implement and administer programs and services. They may also oversee fiscal operations, including accounting, budgeting, and reporting.

Community health specialists promote public health by helping individuals adopt healthy behaviors. They advocate for the needs of individuals by communicating with health care providers and social service agencies, and support the implementation of programs that promote, maintain, and improve individual and overall community health. They deliver preventive services such as blood pressure, glaucoma, and hearing screenings, and collect data to help identify community health needs.

Mental health technicians provide care for individuals with mental or emotional conditions or disabilities, following the instructions of physicians or other health practitioners. They monitor patients’ physical and emotional well-being and provide reports to medical staff. They may participate in rehabilitation and treatment programs, help with personal hygiene, and administer oral or injectable medications.

Patient access representatives support patients’ arrival, intake and discharge at hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities. They are the first point of contact for patients and their families, and answer questions and address concerns. They are responsible for processing information, such as a patient’s reason for seeking treatment and insurance, and entering it into patient records and databases. They may also prepare discharge paperwork and documentation, provide guidance for follow-ups, and other administrative tasks.

Patient navigators assist patients in obtaining services, understanding policies and making health care decisions. They coordinate communication between patients, family members, and health care staff, and explain procedures and services in easy-to-understand language. They may also refer patients to community services and resources. 

Research assistants support scientists in laboratory, survey, and clinical research projects. They support and direct the activities of team members to ensure compliance with protocols and objects, and may evaluate and analyze data. They may also assess the eligibility of potential subjects, conduct screening interviews and medical records reviews, schedule appointments and procedures, take vital signs and interview subjects.

Revenue cycle managers ensure a healthcare provider's billing practices align with federal and state regulations and insurance company policies. This includes overseeing the use of healthcare coding systems to ensure insurance claims and payments are processed accurately and in a timely manner. Revenue cycle managers may also lead a team of medical billers, coders, and financial analysts.