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.

What is Healthcare Information Technology?

Healthcare information technology, also known as health IT, is a field that focuses on the management and use of electronic health records (EHRs), healthcare databases, and other technology systems to improve patient care and outcomes. HIT professionals are responsible for the implementation, maintenance, and security of these systems, as well as analyzing healthcare data to support decision-making and quality improvement initiatives.

What is a Surgical Technician?

A surgical technician, also known as a surgical technologist, is a vital member of the surgical team. They work alongside surgeons and nurses to prepare the operating room, sterilize equipment, and assist during surgical procedures. Surgical technicians are responsible for ensuring that the necessary instruments and supplies are ready for each surgery, as well as maintaining a sterile environment to minimize the risk of infection.

Healthcare Information Technology vs Surgical Technician

Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) professionals manage electronic health records and IT systems in healthcare settings and earning around $90,000 annually. Surgical Technicians assist surgeons during operations, preparing operating rooms and handling instruments, typically completing training in one to two years and earning about $48,000 annually. Both roles are crucial in healthcare but involve different focuses: HIT on technology management and surgical techs on surgical procedures and patient care in the operating room.

Difference between Healthcare Information Technology and Surgical Technician

While both healthcare information technology and surgical technician careers are in the healthcare industry, there are several key differences between the two:

1. Job Responsibilities: Healthcare information technology professionals focus on managing and analyzing healthcare data, implementing and maintaining electronic health record systems, and ensuring the security and privacy of patient information. Surgical technicians, on the other hand, primarily work in the operating room, assisting surgeons during surgical procedures and ensuring the smooth flow of operations.

2. Skills Required: Healthcare information technology professionals need strong analytical and technical skills, as well as knowledge of healthcare regulations and data management systems. They also need to be detail-oriented and have excellent problem-solving abilities. Surgical technicians, on the other hand, need to have good manual dexterity, be able to work well under pressure, and have a strong understanding of surgical procedures and instruments.

3. Work Environment: Healthcare information technology professionals typically work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. They may also work for healthcare technology companies or consulting firms. Surgical technicians primarily work in operating rooms, but they may also find employment in outpatient surgical centers, labor and delivery departments, or emergency rooms.

Healthcare Information Technology vs Surgical Technician: Job Description

Healthcare Information Technology:

• Implement and maintain electronic health record systems
• Analyze healthcare data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement
• Ensure the security and privacy of patient information
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to design and implement technology solutions
• Train and educate staff on the use of healthcare technology systems

Surgical Technician:

• Prepare the operating room for surgery
• Sterilize and arrange surgical instruments and equipment
• Assist surgeons during surgical procedures
• Maintain a sterile environment in the operating room
• Monitor and anticipate the needs of the surgical team during procedures

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:

• Healthcare Information Technology in Wisconsin
• Surgical Technician in Wisconsin
• Healthcare Information Technology classes near you
• Surgical Technician classes near you