A career as a Health Service Assistant in Australia not only provides job stability but also brings immense satisfaction from making a meaningful impact on people’s lives.  

According to data from www.jobsandskills.gov.au, employment opportunities in the Health Care and Social Assistance sector are projected to increase by 301,000 (or 15.8%) in the coming 5 years.  Accounting for 27.9% of employment, hospitals make up the biggest part of the industry’s workforce.   

When considering healthcare, we often picture doctors and nurses carrying out their duties within hospital walls.  However, there is a huge array of job prospects beyond these roles, that fall under the umbrella of healthcare. What’s more exciting is that some of these career paths don’t require university degrees. In a stable field like healthcare, there are endless possibilities for your professional career. 

Who is a Health Services Assistant? 

If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in the healthcare field, becoming a Health Services Assistant could be the best choice for you. Assistants work closely with healthcare professionals, like doctors and nurses in settings such as hospitals, private clinics or community facilities. Depending on your interests and career goals, there are different specialisations that you can pursue.  

A Range of Career Opportunities for Health Services Assistants 

1. Patient Services Assistant 

If you choose to work as a Patient Services Assistant in a hospital, you will be under the guidance of nursing staff.  Your responsibilities in this role will be, moving patients between multiple wards, helping with meal services and managing duties like discharge procedures.  You will also help in maintaining cleanliness and sterility in the facilities.  

It’s worth noting that this position isn’t restricted to hospitals; you could also explore opportunities in care facilities. If you possess communication skills and have a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, pursuing this career path could be an excellent decision for you. 

2. Theatre Orderly 

As a Theatre Orderly you’ll be in charge of escorting patients to the operating theatre during surgeries. In addition, you will also be responsible for maintaining cleanliness in the area, sterilising equipment and offering assistance to multiple wards.  If you are interested in working in the healthcare industry and possess attention to detail and excellent interpersonal skills this job is for you.  

It’s important to remember that assisting patients before surgery can be an anxiety inducing experience for them; therefore, having a friendly and positive demeanour is fundamental. 

3. Nursing Assistant 

If you decide to pursue a career as a Nursing Assistant, your direct supervisor will be a Registered Nurse. You will help patients with tasks like maintaining patient hygiene, offer support during meals and check vital signs of patients.  You will also effectively communicate essential health information to the nursing team. To take up this, you should be able to handle pressure, maintain a good attitude at all times and actively contribute as a member of the team. 

Essential Skills That You Should Possess to Be Successful 

Different healthcare positions have responsibilities that vary and can be found in various healthcare settings. A healthcare assistant should have the following abilities and skills: 

• Being able to communicate is vital in the field. It’s essential to follow instructions from healthcare professionals and genuinely listen to patient’s needs and concerns. 
• It’s important to maintain cleanliness and sterilisation of areas and equipment. Having an attention to detail is important. 
• Possessing patience and empathy are essential qualities. Dealing with patients who have different health conditions requires understanding, compassion and being able to put yourself in their shoes. 
• Organisational skills play an important part in your job as a health assistant. You’ll often have tasks that require organisation, such as managing supplies, keeping records updated and scheduling appointments. Strong organisational skills are essential for handling tasks, managing time effectively and maintaining a healthcare environment that is efficient. 
• Working in a team environment under high pressure calls for a positive spirit always. 

Aside from these attributes practical skills are also vital for success in these roles. 

What’s the Next Step? 

IHNA in Australia offers the HLT33115 Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, a program that equips you with the knowledge and skills you’ll need in your career as a Health Services Assistant.  

During the study period, you will develop a profound understanding of the human body. You will gain knowledge in recognising body systems and will get acquainted with the medical terminologies that you will often encounter in your day-to-day responsibilities. Additionally, you will develop the abilities to ensure a sterile environment for patients. You will also learn to effectively work together with other healthcare professionals, which is a very important skill. 

If a career as a Health Services Assistant aligns with your aspirations, we at IHNA encourage you to visit our course page for further details. This is a Blended learning program that can be completed in just 642 hours. So, turn your plans into reality and take the first step towards an enriching career in the world of healthcare!