CNA vs Healthcare Information Technology
Key Points:
- CNAs provide direct patient care, while Healthcare IT professionals manage and maintain healthcare technology systems.
- CNAs typically earn less than Healthcare IT professionals, who often have higher salaries due to their technical expertise.
- Both fields have job opportunities.
- CNAs require in-person training and certification, while Healthcare IT professionals may have more flexibility with online and in-person options.
- CNA training is generally shorter and less expensive than Healthcare IT roles.
Before we dive into the specifics, let's start with a brief overview of what a CNA and Healthcare Information Technology entail.
A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). CNAs assist patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and feeding, and also take vital signs and report any changes in a patient's condition to the nursing staff. They work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies.
Healthcare Information Technology (HIT), on the other hand, is a field that combines healthcare and information technology to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery. HIT professionals are responsible for managing and maintaining electronic health records (EHRs), analyzing healthcare data, implementing and managing health information systems, and ensuring data security and privacy. They play a crucial role in the digitization of healthcare and the transition to electronic health records.
Now that we have a basic understanding of these two career paths, let's explore the differences between them in more detail.
CNA vs Healthcare Information Technology: Career Outlook and Salary
The career outlook and salary potential for CNAs and HIT professionals also differ.
As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), the demand for your skills and expertise is expected to grow in the coming years due to the aging population and increased need for long-term care services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of CNAs is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for CNAs was $30,830 in May 2020.
As a Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) professional, the demand for your skills is also expected to grow as healthcare organizations continue to adopt electronic health records and other health information systems. The BLS projects that employment in the healthcare IT field will grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for HIT professionals was $93,730 in May 2020.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a career path in the healthcare industry is an important decision that requires careful consideration of your interests, skills, and long-term goals. Both becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and pursuing a career in Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) offer rewarding opportunities to make a difference in patients' lives.
If you enjoy direct patient care and have strong interpersonal skills, a career as a CNA may be the right fit for you. On the other hand, if you have a passion for technology and data management and want to contribute to the digitization and improvement of healthcare delivery, a career in Healthcare Information Technology may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the choice between a CNA and Healthcare Information Technology depends on your personal interests, skills, and career goals. By considering the differences outlined in this blog post, you can make an informed decision and embark on a fulfilling career in the healthcare industry.
Dreambound's educational programs are available in diverse locations. Explore these recommended blogs for a comprehensive examination of the two vocations, including in-depth insights into their prerequisites and guidance on initiating your journey:
Alyssa Jane is part of the customer success team at Dreambound. She works with students, training providers, and employers, helping them have a smooth customer journey. She is also an ESL tutor and Licensed Psychometrician. She is fond of traveling, photography, and discovering new restaurants.
