In the field of healthcare, there are a wide variety of career paths to choose from. Two popular choices are becoming a medical transcriptionist or a psychiatric technician. While both careers involve working in the medical field, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to be a medical transcriptionist and a psychiatric technician, as well as the differences between the two roles. We will also discuss the education and training required for each career, the job descriptions, and the career outlook and salary potential.

What is a Medical Transcriptionist and Psychiatric Technician?

Before we dive into the differences between a medical transcriptionist and a psychiatric technician, let's first define what each of these roles entail.

A medical transcriptionist is responsible for transcribing medical reports dictated by healthcare professionals, such as doctors and nurses. They listen to the audio recordings and type out the reports, ensuring accuracy and proper formatting. These reports can include discharge summaries, medical histories, physical examination reports, and operative reports. Medical transcriptionists play a vital role in maintaining accurate medical records and ensuring effective communication between healthcare providers.

On the other hand, a psychiatric technician provides care for individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities. They work under the supervision of psychiatrists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals to assist patients in managing their conditions. Psychiatric technicians may help with daily activities, such as bathing and dressing, as well as provide emotional support and monitor patients' behaviors and progress. They may also administer medications and assist with therapeutic activities.

Difference between a Medical Transcriptionist and Psychiatric Technician

While both medical transcriptionists and psychiatric technicians work in the healthcare field, there are several differences between the two roles. Here are some key distinctions:

1. Job Responsibilities:

   • Medical Transcriptionist: The primary responsibility of a medical transcriptionist is to transcribe medical reports accurately and efficiently. They must have a strong understanding of medical terminology and be able to interpret and transcribe complex medical information.
   • Psychiatric Technician: Psychiatric technicians focus on providing care and support to individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities. They assist with daily activities, monitor patients' behaviors, and administer medications as needed.

2. Work Environment:

   • Medical Transcriptionist: Medical transcriptionists typically work in comfortable office settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or transcription service companies. They may work remotely from home as well, as many medical reports are now transmitted electronically.
   • Psychiatric Technician: Psychiatric technicians work in various healthcare settings, such as psychiatric hospitals, residential care facilities, and outpatient clinics. They may also work in community settings, providing support to individuals in their homes or other community-based settings.

3. Patient Interaction:

   • Medical Transcriptionist: Medical transcriptionists typically do not have direct patient interaction. They primarily work with audio recordings and written reports.
   • Psychiatric Technician: Psychiatric technicians have direct patient interaction on a daily basis. They provide care, support, and assistance to individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities.

Medical Transcriptionist vs Psychiatric Technician: Job Description

Now that we have a better understanding of the differences between a medical transcriptionist and a psychiatric technician, let's explore their job descriptions in more detail.

Medical Transcriptionist Job Description:

• Listen to audio recordings of medical reports and transcribe them accurately and efficiently.
• Ensure proper formatting and adherence to medical transcription guidelines.
• Edit and proofread transcribed reports for accuracy.
• Use reference materials, such as medical dictionaries and drug references, to ensure correct terminology is used.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulations.
• Communicate with healthcare providers to clarify any unclear dictations or medical information.
• Stay updated on medical terminology, procedures, and technology advancements.

Psychiatric Technician Job Description:

• Provide care and support to individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities.
• Assist patients with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
• Monitor patients' behaviors, reporting any changes or concerns to healthcare professionals.
• Administer medications as prescribed and monitor their effects.
• Assist with therapeutic activities, such as group therapy sessions or recreational activities.
• Maintain patients' safety and security.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to develop and implement treatment plans.

Medical Transcriptionist vs Psychiatric Technician: Education and Training

To pursue a career as a medical transcriptionist, individuals typically need a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in medical transcription or a related field. These programs typically cover medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and transcription techniques. Some employers may require certification from a professional organization, such as the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI).

On the other hand, becoming a psychiatric technician usually requires a postsecondary certificate or associate degree in psychiatric or mental health technology. These programs cover topics such as psychology, pharmacology, patient care techniques, and crisis intervention. Some states also require psychiatric technicians to be licensed or certified, which may involve passing an exam and completing a certain number of hours of supervised clinical experience.

Medical Transcriptionist vs Psychiatric Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook and salary potential for medical transcriptionists and psychiatric technicians can vary. Here is a brief overview of each career's outlook:

• Medical Transcriptionist:

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

• Psychiatric Technician:

  • The employment of psychiatric technicians is projected to grow by 6 percent from 2019 to 2029, according to the BLS. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for mental health services.
  • The median annual wage for psychiatric technicians was $34,890 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

While the job outlook for medical transcriptionists may be declining, there are still opportunities available, especially for those with specialized skills or experience. On the other hand, the demand for psychiatric technicians is expected to grow, providing more job opportunities in the field of mental health.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the healthcare field requires careful consideration of your interests, skills, and goals. Both medical transcriptionists and psychiatric technicians play important roles in the healthcare system, but they have distinct differences in terms of job responsibilities, work environment, and patient interaction.

If you have a strong attention to detail, excellent typing skills, and a passion for maintaining accurate medical records, a career as a medical transcriptionist may be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy working directly with patients, providing care and support to individuals with mental illnesses or developmental disabilities, becoming a psychiatric technician may be the right path for you.

Ultimately, the choice between a medical transcriptionist and a psychiatric technician depends on your personal preferences and career goals. Both careers offer opportunities for growth and fulfillment in the healthcare field.

Explore Dreambound's programs, conveniently offered in multiple locations. Learn more about these two vocations by visiting:

• Medical Transcriptionist in Oklahoma
• Psychiatric Technician in Oklahoma
• Medical Transcriptionist classes near you
• Psychiatric Technician classes near you