[jcwilcox]

I am looking to switch careers. I live in Grand Rapids and am interested in getting into the health care field as I know it offers good wages and long term stability. Unfortunately I do not know many people in the field and would like to know the best way to get into the industry. I have a BS in Business Admin and am willing to continue my education, but unsure what avenue to pursue. Any body out there willing to offer insight?

[Meg Lesher]

You are correct; the medical field is a sure bet. There are plenty of programs out there; some taking shorter times of preparation, such as surgical technician (the keeper of the scalpels) and phlebotomist (blood drawer). It depends on what interests you. I'd suggest going to your library and looking at the Occupational Outlook Handbook, put out by the U.S.D.L. It's a wealth of information, and always a reference book, not one you can check out. I'd also suggest going to your community college and asking questions in the guidance office. They'll steer you straight. You might also just try to ask people in the field how they got there and what you need to know. People are always ready to talk about their jobs.