Book excerpt: The health care industry offers many opportunities for a challenging and fulfilling career with only two years of post-high school education. Workers in the hospital and home health fields provide essential care around the clock to some of the most vulnerable patients and the elderly. Readers explore a range of career options within these fields, including practical or visiting nurse, social service aide, home health aide, and medical equipment technician, among others. Clear, accessible text and evocative photos give a sense of each job's responsibilities and work environment. Useful information about training requirements, certification and licensing tests, and paths to advancement empower readers to pursue their goals.