EKG vs Pharmacy Technician
Key Points:
- EKG technicians operate equipment to record heart activity; Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in filling prescriptions and managing inventory.
- EKG technicians typically earn a higher median salary compared to pharmacy technicians.
- Pharmacy technician jobs are more readily available than EKG technician positions.
- EKG technician training is often completed through in-person programs, while pharmacy technician training can be done online or in-person.
- EKG technician training programs generally have a shorter duration and lower costs compared to pharmacy technician training programs.
When it comes to choosing a career in the medical field, there are numerous options available. Two popular choices are becoming an EKG technician or a pharmacy technician. While both professions are rewarding and offer opportunities for growth, they have distinct differences. In this blog post, we will explore the roles of an EKG technician and a pharmacy technician, and compare them in terms of job description, education and training, as well as career outlook and salary.
EKG vs Pharmacy Technician: Career Outlook and Salary
EKG Technician:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including EKG technicians, is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing prevalence of heart disease and the aging population contribute to the demand for EKG technicians. As of May 2020, the median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians was $59,410.
Pharmacy Technician:
The employment of pharmacy technicians is projected to grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, according to the BLS. This growth is driven by factors such as the aging population, increased demand for prescription medications, and advances in pharmaceutical research. As of May 2020, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $34,020.
Final Thoughts
Both EKG technicians and pharmacy technicians play vital roles in the healthcare industry. The choice between the two professions ultimately depends on your interests, skills, and career goals. If you have a passion for cardiology and enjoy working with patients to monitor and interpret heart activity, a career as an EKG technician may be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you have a keen attention to detail and enjoy working with medications to ensure patient safety, a career as a pharmacy technician may be more suitable. Regardless of which path you choose, both professions offer opportunities for growth and make a positive impact on patient care.
Uncover the opportunities with Dreambound's programs, available in different locations. Dive into these two vocations by checking:
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.
