High-Paying Medical Careers with Shorter Training

* Medical assistant (MA): MAs perform various administrative and clinical tasks in a doctor's office or hospital, such as taking patient vital signs, administering medications, and scheduling appointments. They typically require a one- to two-year associate degree and earn a median annual salary of $32,610.

* Licensed practical nurse (LPN): LPNs provide basic nursing care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. They typically require a one- to two-year diploma program and earn a median annual salary of $46,240.

* Pharmacy technician: Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists with dispensing medications and performing other pharmacy-related tasks. They typically require a two-year associate degree or a one-year certificate program and earn a median annual salary of $32,760.

* Health information technician: Health information technicians manage patient health records and medical data. They typically require a two-year associate degree and earn a median annual salary of $43,300.

* Dental hygienist: Dental hygienists clean teeth, perform oral exams, and provide other preventive dental care. They typically require a two- to three-year associate degree and earn a median annual salary of $76,220.