Compare roles in health

Not sure where to start with the hundreds of NHS careers? Use our compare roles section to get bite-size information on the entry requirements and training, pay and conditions, prospects and skills needed of up to three roles. If there is something that you think you could do, then get more in-depth information on the role.

Don't forget, you can also save your role comparisons by registering with us.  

  1. Health psychologist

    Health psychologists use their skills and knowledge of psychology to promote wellbeing and healthy behaviours across the population. 

    You’ll need an honours degree in psychology to become a member of the Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society which allows you to apply for postgraduate courses in clinical psychology.
    Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. After completing their training, health psychologists will be paid at band 7. Psychologists in the NHS can work full or part time. Terms and conditions can vary for employers outside of the NHS.
    On a daily basis you will use a broad range of skills, including a thorough knowledge of psychological theory and practice, an interest in how people think and behave and the ability to relate to a wide range of people.You'll need to be a patient, sympathetic and the ability to work on your own and in consultation with others.
    Some psychologists decide to do into management and lead a team of professionals. You could decide to go into clinical academic research to support the development of the profession.You could also apply for a trainee high intensity therapist position, enabling you to work under the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies initiative.
  2. Hearing aid dispenser

    Hearing aid dispensers (HAD) are fully qualified clinicians who assess hearing and provide aftercare for hearing aids.  

    To become a hearing aid dispenser (HAD), you will need to successfully complete a course approved by the Health and Care Professions Council. Courses are available at a number of different levels, and so the entry requirements will vary depending on the level of course you’re applying for. Typically A levels or equivalent level 3 qualifications are required to get onto Foundation Degree, Dip HE and BSc (Hons) healthcare Science degrees. For entry onto the Masters level programmes, you’ll typically need an honours degree (minimum 2:1). It is essential to check entry requirements with each course provider as they set their own. Some courses are sponsored by industry as an ‘earn while you learn’ option, where you can work for a company as trainee who may sponsor the fees and expenses for the course.
    Staff in the NHS will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. They may work a shift pattern. Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. Associate practitioners in the NHS will typically be on band 4, healthcare scientists will start on band 5 and clinical scientists on band 7. Terms and conditions of service can vary for employers outside the NHS. In the private sector you could work as an independent, self-employed practitioner with your own hearing aid dispensing business or as a HAD for a high street or charity employer.
    Good interpersonal skills, an interest in science and technology, comfortable using modern technology and complex equipment, pay great attention to detail and the ability to work as part of a team.
    With further training and/or experience, you may be able to develop your career further and apply for vacancies in areas such as further specialisation, management, research, or teaching. You might develop a special interest and expertise in tinnitus, cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing devices or balance assessment and rehabilitation.
Make a comment or report a problem with this page

Help us improve

This form is for you to tell us about something that could be improved about the website or if there's anything wrong, incorrect or inaccurate with what you see. 

If you have a query about a career in the NHS, please visit our contact us page and call or email us.