Healthcare Information Technology vs Medical Transcriptionist
In today's rapidly evolving healthcare industry, there are a wide range of career opportunities available. Two such careers that are gaining popularity are Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) and Medical Transcriptionist. While both roles involve working with healthcare data, they have distinct differences. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between Healthcare Information Technology and Medical Transcriptionist, including job descriptions, education and training requirements, and career outlooks.
Medical Transcriptionist Education and Training:
- A postsecondary certificate or associate's degree in Medical Transcription is typically required.
- Coursework may cover medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and medical transcription techniques.
- Proficiency in typing and word processing software is essential.
- Some employers may require Medical Transcriptionists to have certifications, such as Registered Healthcare Documentation Specialist (RHDS) or Certified Healthcare Documentation Specialist (CHDS).
Healthcare Information Technology vs Medical Transcriptionist: Career Outlook and Salary
The career outlook and salary potential for Healthcare Information Technology and Medical Transcriptionist differ:
Healthcare Information Technology Career Outlook and Salary:
- The demand for HIT professionals is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations, driven by the increasing adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) and the need for data analysis in healthcare.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for Medical and Health Services Managers, which includes HIT professionals, was $104,280 as of May 2020.
Medical Transcriptionist Career Outlook and Salary:
- The demand for Medical Transcriptionists is expected to decline due to advances in speech recognition technology and outsourcing of transcription services.
- According to the BLS, the median annual wage for Medical Transcriptionists was $34,770 as of May 2020.
Final Thoughts
Both Healthcare Information Technology and Medical Transcriptionist offer unique career opportunities in the healthcare industry. While HIT professionals focus on managing healthcare data using technology, Medical Transcriptionists specialize in transcribing voice recordings into written documents. The choice between these two careers depends on individual interests, skills, and educational preferences. It is important to consider the job outlook and salary potential when making a decision.
Dreambound provides programs in several locations. Get detailed information about these two vocations by checking:
Pia Yapjoco is part of the school growth and sales team at Dreambound. She helps facilitate school partnerships that expand educational opportunities for aspiring students in allied health and other trades. Beyond work, she curates her pup's Instagram, hunts for hidden coffee gems, and escapes into cozy gaming.
