Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
Introduction to Health Science
1
To the Student
Welcome to the fi eld of health science!
We hope you will enjoy learning from the experiences and insights
of healthcare workers as you read about the wide variety of careers in
healthcare. You will study the fi ve health science career pathways and will
learn professional skills and standards of behavior used by workers in
each pathway.
As you use the reading supports provided in this text, including
professional vocabulary, mapping your reading, connecting with and
refl ecting on your reading, you will improve your understanding of
health science content. At the same time, you will strengthen your reading
and comprehension skills.
Whether you have a specifi c career in mind or are just beginning your
search, you will be excited to know that there are literally hundreds of
healthcare occupations from which to choose. When you read about work
personalities, leadership styles, and preferences for data, people, things, or
ideas, take time to consider your own personal preferences, and you will
discover satisfying career options for your future. Practicing the technical
skills associated with each pathway will provide additional clues to your
preferred career pathway.
Prepare for challenging health science coursework by sharpening
your study skills. Use the memory techniques for learning vocabulary,
try different methods for taking notes, and assess your personal learning
style to improve your study habits. If you develop a plan for managing
your time and learn skills for taking exams now, you will see the benefi ts
throughout your school and work life.
Above all, we hope you will be excited to learn about the amazing
variety of healthcare careers and will feel prepared to discover the
pathway to your future career!
Dottie Winger
Sue Blahnik