Key Points:

• Healthcare Documentation Specialists transcribe and edit medical records; Sterile Processing Technicians clean, sterilize, and maintain medical equipment.
• Healthcare Documentation Specialists typically earn higher salaries than Sterile Processing Technicians.
• Both roles have good job availability.
• Healthcare Documentation Specialists often require an associate's degree or certificate program, while Sterile Processing Technicians typically complete a certificate or diploma program.
• Healthcare Documentation Specialist training programs can take 1-2 years to complete, while Sterile Processing Technician training programs can take 6 months to 1 year to complete.

When it comes to choosing a vocational training program, it's important to consider your interests, skills, and the job outlook for the field. Two popular vocational training options in the healthcare industry are healthcare documentation specialist and sterile processing technician. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between these two careers and help you determine which one may be the best fit for you.

What is a Healthcare Documentation Specialist and Sterile Processing Technician?

Healthcare Documentation Specialist: A healthcare documentation specialist, also known as a medical transcriptionist, is responsible for transcribing medical reports dictated by healthcare professionals. They listen to audio recordings and convert them into written documents, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality. These documents are essential for patient records, insurance claims, and medical research.

Sterile Processing Technician: A sterile processing technician, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and cleanliness of medical equipment and instruments. They are responsible for decontaminating, sterilizing, and assembling medical supplies and equipment. Sterile processing technicians work in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare settings to support the delivery of safe and effective patient care.

Difference between a Healthcare Documentation Specialist and Sterile Processing Technician

While both healthcare documentation specialists and sterile processing technicians work in the healthcare industry, there are several key differences between these two careers. Here are some of the main distinctions:

Job Duties:

• Healthcare Documentation Specialist: The main responsibility of a healthcare documentation specialist is to transcribe medical reports. They listen to audio recordings and use specialized software to convert them into written documents. Accuracy, attention to detail, and knowledge of medical terminology are essential for this role.
• Sterile Processing Technician: Sterile processing technicians are responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and safety of medical equipment. They decontaminate, sterilize, and assemble medical instruments and supplies. They also maintain detailed records of sterilization processes and equipment maintenance.

Work Environment:

• Healthcare Documentation Specialist: Healthcare documentation specialists typically work in office settings, either in healthcare facilities or from home. They may have the flexibility to work remotely, which can be appealing for individuals who desire a flexible work schedule.
• Sterile Processing Technician: Sterile processing technicians work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient clinics. They may spend a significant amount of time on their feet and may be required to lift heavy equipment.

Interactions with Patients:

• Healthcare Documentation Specialist: Healthcare documentation specialists do not have direct interactions with patients. They primarily work with audio recordings and written documents.
• Sterile Processing Technician: While sterile processing technicians may have limited interactions with patients, their main focus is on ensuring the cleanliness and safety of medical equipment.

Healthcare Documentation Specialist vs Sterile Processing Technician: Job Description

Healthcare Documentation Specialist:

• Transcribe medical reports and documents dictated by healthcare professionals.
• Ensure accuracy and confidentiality of patient information.
• Use specialized software and equipment to convert audio recordings into written documents.
• Proofread and edit transcriptions for clarity and grammar.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of medical terminology and procedures.

Sterile Processing Technician:

• Decontaminate, sterilize, and assemble medical supplies and equipment.
• Inspect and test equipment for proper functioning.
• Maintain detailed records of sterilization processes and equipment maintenance.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to ensure proper handling and storage of medical instruments.
• Adhere to strict safety and infection control protocols.

Healthcare Documentation Specialist vs Sterile Processing Technician: Education and Training

Healthcare Documentation Specialist:

• Most employers require a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in medical transcription or a related field.
• Courses typically cover medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and transcription techniques.
• Some programs may offer internships or hands-on training opportunities.
• Strong computer skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

Sterile Processing Technician:

• Sterile processing technician programs are typically offered at community colleges or vocational schools.
• The programs range from a few months to one year in duration.
• Courses cover topics such as medical terminology, infection control, sterilization techniques, and equipment maintenance.
• Some programs may include a clinical component where students gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.

Healthcare Documentation Specialist vs Sterile Processing Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

Healthcare Documentation Specialist:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of healthcare documentation specialists is projected to decline by 2 percent from 2019 to 2029. This decline is mainly due to technological advancements and the increasing use of voice recognition software.
• The median annual wage for healthcare documentation specialists was $34,770 as of May 2020, according to the BLS.

Sterile Processing Technician:

• The employment of sterile processing technicians is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, according to the BLS. This growth is driven by an aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services.
• The median annual wage for sterile processing technicians was $36,160 as of May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

When deciding between a career as a healthcare documentation specialist or a sterile processing technician, it's important to consider your interests, skills, and the job outlook for each field. Both careers offer opportunities to work in the healthcare industry and contribute to patient care in different ways. Whether you prefer working with medical documents or ensuring the safety of medical equipment, there is a vocational training option that is right for you.

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:

• Sterile Processing Technician in Montana
• Sterile Processing Technician classes near you