In the field of healthcare, there are various career paths one can choose from. Two popular options are becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or a Healthcare Documentation Specialist. While both professions are in the healthcare industry, there are notable differences in their job descriptions, education and training requirements, as well as career outlooks. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between CNAs and Healthcare Documentation Specialists to help you decide which path may be the best fit for you.

Introduction

The healthcare industry is experiencing rapid growth, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals. As a result, more and more individuals are considering a career in healthcare. However, it can be overwhelming to choose the right path, especially with the wide range of options available. CNAs and Healthcare Documentation Specialists are two professions that offer rewarding opportunities for those interested in the healthcare field.

What is a CNA and Healthcare Documentation Specialist?

• CNA: A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides basic nursing care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). They work directly with patients in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. CNAs assist patients with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and transferring.
• Healthcare Documentation Specialist: A Healthcare Documentation Specialist, also known as a Medical Transcriptionist, is responsible for transcribing and editing medical reports dictated by healthcare professionals. They convert voice recordings into written documents, ensuring accuracy and adherence to medical terminology and guidelines. Healthcare Documentation Specialists typically work in hospitals, clinics, or transcription service companies.

Difference between a CNA and Healthcare Documentation Specialist

While both CNAs and Healthcare Documentation Specialists work in the healthcare industry, there are several key differences between these two professions:

• Direct Patient Care vs. Indirect Patient Care: CNAs provide hands-on care and support to patients, assisting with their physical needs and daily activities. On the other hand, Healthcare Documentation Specialists work behind the scenes, focusing on transcribing and documenting medical reports. They do not have direct contact with patients.
• Work Environment: CNAs work in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities. They spend most of their time on their feet, providing care to patients. Healthcare Documentation Specialists, on the other hand, typically work in office settings or remotely from home, transcribing medical reports using specialized software.
• Level of Responsibility: CNAs have a higher level of responsibility as they directly care for patients' well-being. They monitor vital signs, assist with medication administration, and report any changes in patients' conditions to healthcare professionals. Healthcare Documentation Specialists focus on accurately transcribing medical reports, ensuring that the information is correctly documented.

CNA vs Healthcare Documentation Specialist: Job Description

• CNA: The primary job responsibility of a CNA is to provide basic nursing care to patients. This includes assisting with bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility. CNAs also take vital signs, record patient information, and report any changes in condition to healthcare professionals. They often act as a crucial link between patients and the healthcare team, providing emotional support and ensuring patients' comfort.
• Healthcare Documentation Specialist: The main job responsibility of a Healthcare Documentation Specialist is to transcribe and edit medical reports. They listen to voice recordings made by healthcare professionals and convert them into written documents. Accuracy and attention to detail are essential in this role to ensure that medical reports are correctly documented. Healthcare Documentation Specialists also review and edit transcriptions for grammar, punctuation, and medical terminology.

CNA vs Healthcare Documentation Specialist: Education and Training

• CNA: To become a CNA, individuals must complete a state-approved nursing assistant training program. These programs typically last a few weeks to a few months and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. After completing the program, aspiring CNAs must pass a competency exam to become certified. Each state has its own specific requirements for CNAs.
• Healthcare Documentation Specialist: Education and training requirements for Healthcare Documentation Specialists vary. Some employers may require a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree in medical transcription or a related field. Others may provide on-the-job training for individuals with a high school diploma or equivalent. Courses in medical terminology, anatomy, and transcription techniques are often beneficial for those pursuing a career as a Healthcare Documentation Specialist.

CNA vs Healthcare Documentation Specialist: Career Outlook and Salary

• CNA: The demand for CNAs is expected to grow significantly in the coming years due to the aging population and increased healthcare needs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow 8% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for CNAs was $30,830 in May 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $42,750.
• Healthcare Documentation Specialist: The BLS does not specifically provide data for Healthcare Documentation Specialists. However, the overall employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to decline 2% from 2019 to 2029. This decline is primarily due to technological advancements and the increasing use of speech recognition software. The median annual wage for medical transcriptionists was $34,770 in May 2020, with the highest 10% earning more than $53,500.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career path in the healthcare field is an important decision. Both CNAs and Healthcare Documentation Specialists play crucial roles in the healthcare industry, albeit in different capacities. If you enjoy direct patient care and are physically active, a career as a CNA may be a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more behind-the-scenes role and have excellent attention to detail, becoming a Healthcare Documentation Specialist may be the right choice.

Consider your interests, strengths, and long-term career goals when deciding between these two professions. Researching and gaining firsthand experience, such as shadowing professionals or volunteering, can also provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and requirements of each role. Ultimately, choosing a career that aligns with your passions and skills will ensure a fulfilling and rewarding professional journey in the healthcare industry.

Dreambound provides programs in various locations. Explore these blogs for in-depth information on the two vocations, including their specific requirements and instructions on how to become a part of them:

• CNA in Hawaii
• CNA classes near you