According to the United States Department of Labor and the Bureau of Labor Statistics list of occupations with the most job growth, five of the top twenty are in the medical field. As technology advances and healthcare improves, people are living longer and longer. This also requires more care, however, which in turn translates into more opportunities as far as healthcare jobs.  These are also jobs that don't require much education, which means you can get started earning money in a growing field that pays well and has awesome job security. Here's a look at the top five.

Personal Care Aids/Home Health Aides

Coming in at number one and three respectively, these jobs are quite similar in their duties, so they have been combined. Personal care aides work primarily in nursing homes, assisting the elderly with tasks, such as making their bed, cooking meals, assisting dressing, and other tasks, like writing a letter, they may need a little help with. Home health aides provide the same level of care, but in the client's home rather than an institution. They may also do more general chores, such as running errands, escorting to doctor's appointments, and doing the dishes or laundry. Some clients may not be elderly; some may have just had a knee replacement or other surgery that makes getting around a bit more difficult while they recover. Most opportunities don't require any formalized training, with each agency offering on-the-job training. There may also be opportunities for certification.

Registered Nurse

An R.N. comes in at number two on the list. While this does require a two-year degree, many people start out with get their Licensed Practical Nursing (L.P.N.) certification first, and then attending classes towards their R.N as they are able.  Once they have the associate degree-level R.N. designation, many continue towards their Baccalaureate degree.

Certified Nursing Assistant

To become a CNA, most states require short, intensive training, generally taking only 2-3 months to complete. Some facilities, especially in areas where CNAs are in short supply, provide on-the-job training and facilitate the exams required for certification with their local college or a proctor. A CNA provides more personalized care for patients. This is primarily focused on assisting them with the activities of daily living, such as toileting, bathing, and taking their vital signs. They also communicate with nurses and doctors anything they should be made aware of.

Medical Assistant

A medical assistant usually works in a clinical setting, assisting physicians tend to the pre-appointment screenings. This can include getting vital signs, taking their weight, and charting the purpose for their visit as well as scheduling follow-up appointments. The skills needed for a career as a medical assistant can usually be gained from a one-year vocational program at your local community college.

Medical Secretary

Number 20 on the list, a career as a medical secretary is ideal for those who prefer less direct patient interaction and have good clerical skills. While a formalized training program is available, usually taking one-year or less, some enter the field having only had a few classes, such as medical terminology and medical transcription, in additional to their proven clerical expertise.