<p>I've read all kinds of horror stories about young lawyers not being able to find a job and having ungodly amounts of debt, but I still have my heart set on going to law school. I am considering studying healthcare law and maybe specializing in neuroscience/mental health, and I was wondering, are the job prospects better for healthcare lawyers than other types of lawyers?</p>
<p>Specifically, what do you mean by “healthcare law?”</p>
<p>Right now, there is tremendous demand for seasoned attorneys with experience working in pharma and medical devices companies, as well as hospitals and other healthcare providers. This is a very, very heavily regulated industry, and there is also a tremendous need for compliance professionals, not all of whom are attorneys. </p>
<p>I suspect that the need for young attorneys who wish to practice in this area is tempered by demand. That said, as new regulations and laws are passed frequently in this area, and as penalties for non-compliance grow, companies/healthcare providers do have an increasing need to seek legal advice to navigate through the challenges they face.</p>
<p>The problem is on the pharma and device end, certain new regulations are causing them significant difficulties and they are laying off or cutting back. Many companies are taking compliance in-house or have already done so, so that is a good option if a lawyer can support his or her debt on the smaller salary. Of course, in-house positions are often not entry level. I still think it’s a mistake to go to law school if significant debt is necessary. However, for someone who doesn’t incur significant debt, it’s a fantastic choice.</p>
<p>So… Do you think a masters in public health or healthcare administration would be more useful than a law degree?</p>
<p>What exactly do you want to do? Influence policy? Lobby for businesses?</p>
<p>I was hoping to work for a private healthcare company in their legal department…I am only a senior in high school so I am not exactly sure yet, but I would love to somehow combine legal studies and healthcare administration. I’m just worried about the employment outlook though…</p>
<p>You have plenty of time before you need to worry about law school or employment. When you go to college, keep your GPA up, study what interests you and live in the moment. The future will come soon enough. Good luck to you!</p>