What is a Patient Educator?

A Patient Educator is someone who promotes the health and wellness of patients by providing them with information. By improving the public's knowledge of various health-related issues and by promoting positive habits of healthy living, patient educators help patients improve their attitudes towards medicine and their own lifestyles. This can prevent disease, disability, and premature death by encouraging patients to take an active hand in making their life a healthy one. Patient educators cover topics like exercise, healthy eating habits, sexual health and healthy sleep practices.

Types of Work Environments

  • Hospitals
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Schools
  • Private business
  • Private practices
  • The government

Education and Training Requirements

A bachelor's degree in health education and promotion is required for most entry-level positions and some employers prefer to hire candidates who are Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES).

Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the median salary for patient educators is approximately $46,910 per year.

Professional Organization

The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing

Learn More