Healthcare Information Technology vs Surgical Technician
Key Points:
- Healthcare IT professionals manage and maintain healthcare technology, while Surgical Technicians assist surgeons during operations.
- Healthcare IT may require online or in-person certification programs, while Surgical Technicians typically complete in-person training programs.
- Healthcare IT training can vary in cost and duration, while Surgical Technician programs are generally shorter and more affordable.
The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and with the increasing reliance on technology, the demand for skilled professionals in healthcare information technology (HIT) is on the rise. On the other hand, surgical technicians play a crucial role in the operating room, assisting surgeons and ensuring the smooth flow of surgical procedures. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between healthcare information technology and surgical technician careers, including job descriptions, education and training requirements, as well as career outlook and salary potential.
Healthcare Information Technology vs Surgical Technician: Education and Training
Healthcare Information Technology:
- A bachelor's degree in health information management, health informatics, or a related field is typically required for entry-level positions in healthcare information technology.
- Some positions may require a master's degree in health informatics or a related field, especially for leadership or management roles.
- Certification is available through organizations such as the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).
Surgical Technician:
- Surgical technicians typically complete a postsecondary certificate program, which can be completed in as little as nine months to a year.
- Some surgical technicians may choose to pursue an associate's degree in surgical technology, which typically takes two years to complete.
- Certification is available through organizations such as the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Healthcare Information Technology vs Surgical Technician: Career Outlook and Salary
Healthcare Information Technology:
- The demand for healthcare information technology professionals is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.
- The median annual wage for health information technicians was $42,630 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Surgical Technician:
- The demand for surgical technicians is also projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations.
- The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $49,040 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Final Thoughts
Both healthcare information technology and surgical technician careers offer rewarding opportunities in the healthcare industry. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual interests, skills, and career goals. Healthcare information technology professionals play a crucial role in managing and analyzing healthcare data to improve patient care, while surgical technicians provide valuable support in the operating room. Regardless of the career path chosen, both fields offer stability, growth, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on patient outcomes.
Dreambound's programs are available in different locations. Explore the following blogs for comprehensive details on these two vocations, including their requirements and guidelines on joining:
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.
