Key Points:

• Healthcare IT professionals manage and maintain healthcare technology systems; Medication Aides assist patients with medication administration.
• Healthcare IT salaries are generally higher than Medication Aide salaries, but both can provide stable incomes.
• Demand for Healthcare IT professionals is growing due to the increasing use of technology in healthcare, while Medication Aide jobs are widely available in healthcare facilities.
• Healthcare IT training often involves online and in-person courses, while Medication Aide training is typically in-person and hands-on.
• Healthcare IT training can be more expensive and take longer than Medication Aide training.

In today's fast-paced healthcare industry, there are numerous career opportunities available for individuals interested in assisting patients and contributing to the overall success of healthcare organizations. Two popular vocational training options are healthcare information technology and medication aide. While both roles play a crucial part in delivering quality healthcare, they have distinct differences in terms of job description, education and training requirements, as well as career outlook and salary potential. In this blog post, we will explore the key aspects of healthcare information technology and medication aide roles to help you make an informed decision about which path might be the best fit for you.

What is Healthcare Information Technology and Medication Aide?

Healthcare Information Technology (HIT): Healthcare information technology professionals are responsible for managing and maintaining the electronic health records (EHRs) of patients, ensuring the security and accuracy of information, and implementing and managing healthcare information systems. They collaborate with healthcare providers and other stakeholders to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance patient care outcomes.

Medication Aide: Medication aides, also known as medication technicians or assistants, work under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to administer medication to patients. They are trained to follow medication schedules, monitor patients for any adverse reactions, and provide assistance with other basic healthcare tasks, such as taking vital signs and assisting with personal care.

Difference between Healthcare Information Technology and Medication Aide

While both healthcare information technology and medication aide roles contribute to the overall functioning of healthcare organizations, they differ significantly in terms of job responsibilities and the skills required. Here are some key differences between the two:

• Job Responsibilities:

  • Healthcare Information Technology: HIT professionals focus primarily on managing and analyzing healthcare data, ensuring its accuracy and security, and implementing and maintaining healthcare information systems.
  • Medication Aide: Medication aides primarily administer medications to patients, monitor their responses, and assist with other basic healthcare tasks as needed.

• Skills Required:

  • Healthcare Information Technology: HIT professionals need strong technical skills, including proficiency in electronic health record systems, data analysis, and information security. They also need good communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Medication Aide: Medication aides need a solid understanding of medication administration protocols, as well as knowledge of common medications and their potential side effects. They also need good observation and communication skills.

• Level of Patient Interaction:

  • Healthcare Information Technology: HIT professionals typically have limited direct patient interaction. They primarily work with healthcare providers and administrators to ensure accurate and secure healthcare data management.
  • Medication Aide: Medication aides have regular direct contact with patients, as they administer medications and provide basic healthcare assistance as needed.

Healthcare Information Technology vs Medication Aide: Job Description

Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) Job Description

• Collaborate with healthcare providers and administrators to identify and implement healthcare information systems that support efficient and accurate data management.
• Manage and maintain electronic health records (EHRs) to ensure their accuracy, completeness, and security.
• Analyze healthcare data to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement in patient care outcomes.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures related to healthcare information management and security.
• Train healthcare staff on the use of electronic health record systems and other healthcare information technologies.

Medication Aide Job Description

• Administer medications to patients as prescribed by healthcare providers.
• Monitor patients for any adverse reactions to medications and report any concerns to the supervising nurse.
• Assist with other basic healthcare tasks, such as taking vital signs, documenting patient information, and assisting with personal care.
• Follow medication schedules and ensure medications are administered accurately and on time.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date medication records.

Healthcare Information Technology vs Medication Aide: Education and Training

Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) Education and Training

• Associate's or bachelor's degree in healthcare information technology, health informatics, or a related field.
• Coursework may include topics such as medical coding and billing, healthcare data management, health information systems, and healthcare privacy and security.
• Some employers may require professional certifications, such as the Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) or Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) certifications.

Medication Aide Education and Training

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of a state-approved medication aide training program, which typically includes classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
• Successful completion of a competency evaluation and obtaining state certification or registration, if required.

Healthcare Information Technology vs Medication Aide: Career Outlook and Salary

Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) Career Outlook and Salary

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of medical records and health information technicians (which includes HIT professionals) is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for medical records and health information technicians was $44,090 in May 2020, according to BLS data.

Medication Aide Career Outlook and Salary

• According to the BLS, employment of nursing assistants and orderlies (which includes medication aides) is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for nursing assistants was $30,850 in May 2020, according to BLS data.

Final Thoughts

Both healthcare information technology and medication aide roles offer rewarding career opportunities in the healthcare industry. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your interests, skills, and career goals. If you have a passion for technology, data management, and improving healthcare processes, a career in healthcare information technology may be a great fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy direct patient care, administering medications, and providing basic healthcare assistance, a career as a medication aide may be the right choice. Consider your strengths, preferences, and the education and training requirements for each role to make an informed decision about which path to pursue.

Uncover the opportunities with Dreambound's programs, available in different locations. Dive into these two vocations by checking:

• Healthcare Information Technology in Oregon
• Medication Aide in Oregon
• Healthcare Information Technology classes near you
• Medication Aide classes near you