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Rhode Island Healthcare Careers Guide

Explore healthcare career paths in Rhode Island — from entry-level CNA and caregiver roles to LPN and RN. Find your starting point and see the path forward.

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Healthcare Career Paths in Rhode Island

Salary estimates are general ranges. Verify current figures at BLS.gov or with RI employers.

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Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

⏱ 4–10 weeks training💰 $30,000–$42,000/yr

CNAs provide direct patient care in nursing homes, hospitals, and home health settings. CNA is one of the fastest paths into healthcare in Rhode Island.

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Home Health Aide / Caregiver

⏱ 75 hours training (varies)💰 $27,000–$36,000/yr

Home health aides and caregivers assist clients in their homes with daily living activities. Rhode Island has growing demand for in-home care workers due to its aging population.

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Medical Assistant (MA)

⏱ 9–12 months training💰 $34,000–$46,000/yr

Medical assistants work in physician offices and clinics, handling both administrative and clinical tasks — taking vitals, drawing blood, scheduling, and managing records.

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Phlebotomist

⏱ 4–8 months training💰 $30,000–$42,000/yr

Phlebotomists draw blood samples in hospitals, labs, blood donation centers, and clinics. Certification is available through NHA, ASCP, and AMT. RI does not require state licensure but employers typically require national certification.

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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

⏱ 12–18 months program💰 $48,000–$62,000/yr

LPNs provide direct patient care under RN supervision. In Rhode Island, LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN and obtain licensure through RICBN.

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Registered Nurse (RN)

⏱ 2–4 year nursing program💰 $65,000–$95,000+/yr

RNs are the backbone of healthcare delivery in Rhode Island. RNs can specialize in ICU, ER, pediatrics, and more. ADN or BSN required, followed by NCLEX-RN and RICBN licensure.

📈 The Rhode Island Healthcare Career Ladder

Most healthcare careers in Rhode Island are stackable — meaning you can start at one level and work your way up while employed. You do not need to start at the top.

Caregiver / HHA
→
CNA (4–10 wks)
CNA
→
LPN (12–18 mos)
LPN
→
RN (via bridge program) (1–2 yrs)
RN (ADN)
→
BSN (via RN-to-BSN program) (1–2 yrs)

Tools to help you get started

Checklists, trackers, and planners for every stage of your healthcare career in Rhode Island.

Browse All Tools →Free CNA Checklist