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Resources > Clinical Experience  >  Healthcare Experience

Healthcare Experience

What is Healthcare Experience?

Healthcare Experience (HCE) includes roles where you work in a healthcare setting but may not be directly providing hands-on care to patients. These positions often involve administrative support, clinical coordination, or assisting licensed providers in indirect ways. While many PA programs prioritize PCE, HCE can still strengthen your application by showing familiarity with healthcare systems, workflows, and patient interactions.

Why HCE Matters

  • Demonstrates your understanding of healthcare operations and teamwork

  • Builds familiarity with medical terminology, documentation, and patient flow

  • Provides valuable context for your future role as a PA

  • Shows commitment to working in healthcare

Common HCE Roles

  • Medical scribe

  • Unit clerk or ward clerk

  • Patient transporter

  • Pharmacy technician

  • Medical receptionist

  • Medical records clerk

Finding HCE Roles

Online Job Boards

  • Start by checking job search platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter. 

  • Search HCE role titles or use terms like "medical," "clerk" or "support."

Local Hospitals/Clinics

  • Visit the websites of local hospitals, clinics, urgent care centers, and specialty offices. Check their Careers, Employment, or Work With Us pages regularly.

  • If there are no openings listed, look for a general contact email and send a resume and short message expressing interest.

Getting a Job Without Prior Experience

Many ​HCE roles, especially administrative or entry-level support jobs, do not require formal certifications. Employers often value dependability, communication skills, and the ability to learn quickly.

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Tips for getting hired without prior experience:

  • Look for listings that say "entry-level," "training provided," "on-the-job training," and "no experience necessary."

  • Don't be discouraged by listings that say "1 year experience preferred" - many are flexible.

  • Write a strong resume (ADD LINK) that highlights transferable skills, such as customer service, organization, and technology.

  • Follow up after applying to express interest and enthusiasm.

FINDING A ROLE

Getting a HCE Job with a Certification

While most HCE positions don't require certifications, certain credentials - like Medical Terminology, HIPAA training, or EHR (Electronic Health Record) system training - can make your application more competitive.​

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Tips for getting certified and using your certifications:

  • Explore local community colleges, vocational schools, or online platforms for short healthcare admin courses.

  • ​List certifications prominently on your resume and in cover letters.

CERTIFICATIONS

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