Health Care Schools in South Dakota

The healthcare industry is one of the fastest growing job markets in South Dakota and throughout the United States. A large number of those employed in the healthcare sector are approaching retirement precisely when the aging baby boomer population will begin to need more medical care and assistance. This translates to enormous job opportunity for those interested in stable careers that involve helping people and improving lives.

• Find Schools that offer Health Care Related Degrees in South Dakota
• What are the fastest growing Health Care Careers in South Dakota?
• Who are South Dakota's largest health care employers?

Fastest Growing Health Care Jobs in South Dakota

Some of the fastest growing jobs in healthcare in South Dakota are home and health care aides, diagnostic medical sonographers, medical assistants, physician assistants, dental hygienists, and physical therapist assistants. In fact, half of the top ten fastest growing professions in the state are healthcare related, according to the South Dakota Dept. of Labor. According to the South Dakota Department of Health, between the years of 2004 and 2014, there is an estimated increase in healthcare employees needed of almost 30%.

South Dakota's Largest Health Care Employers

Hospitals provide many but not all of the jobs in healthcare. There are 63 hospitals in South Dakota. Fifty of them are in rural areas, and the largest is in Sioux Falls. Below is a list of a few of the largest.

• Sanford USD Medical Center: Located in Sioux Falls, this acclaimed hospital is the largest in the region and employs nearly 4,000 people.
• Avera McKennan Hospital: Located in Sioux Falls, this hospital is a member of Avera Health, a system with over 200 facilities. Its employs 4,600 people.
• Rapid City Regional Hospital: This non-profit, acclaimed medical center was founded in 1973 and employs 4,200 people in Rapid City.
• Avera St. Luke’s Hospital: In Aberdeen, this Christian hospital was founded in 1901 and has grown to serve people in the surrounding ten counties, with 1,400 employees.

State facilities, universities, and government agencies are working to address the potential shortages and striving to bring an influx of younger workers into the field. Take advantage of this opportunity and find a stable career in healthcare that is suited to you. Most careers require varying levels of training and education. Check the schools below and find the educational program that can help you reach your career goals.

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