Medical Transcriptionist vs Sterile Processing Technician
Key Points:
- Medical Transcriptionists type patient records; Sterile Processing Technicians clean, sterilize, and prepare medical equipment.
- Medical Transcriptionists typically earn more than Sterile Processing Technicians.
- Demand for Sterile Processing Technicians is expected to grow faster than for Medical Transcriptionists.
- Both jobs require training, but Sterile Processing Technicians often need in-person training, while Medical Transcriptionists can sometimes complete their training online.
- Sterile Processing Technician training programs are typically shorter (6-12 months) and less expensive than Medical Transcriptionist programs (1-2 years).
In the world of healthcare, there are a multitude of roles and career paths to choose from. Two such options are medical transcriptionist and sterile processing technician. While both of these professions are vital to the smooth operation of a healthcare facility, they have distinct differences in terms of job responsibilities, education, and career outlook. In this blog post, we will explore the roles of medical transcriptionist and sterile processing technician, discuss the differences between the two, and provide insights into their respective education and training requirements, as well as career outlook and salary potential.
Medical Transcriptionist vs Sterile Processing Technician: Career Outlook and Salary
Medical Transcriptionist:
The demand for medical transcriptionists has declined in recent years due to advances in voice recognition technology and electronic health records. However, there are still opportunities available, particularly for those with formal training and certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical transcriptionists is projected to decline 2% from 2019 to 2029. The median annual wage for medical transcriptionists was $33,380 in May 2020.
Sterile Processing Technician:
The employment outlook for sterile processing technicians is more favorable. The BLS projects a 7% growth in employment from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing demand for healthcare services and the emphasis on infection control are contributing factors to this growth. The median annual wage for sterile processing technicians was $37,770 in May 2020.
Final Thoughts
While both medical transcriptionist and sterile processing technician are essential roles in the healthcare industry, they have distinct differences in terms of job responsibilities, work environment, required skills, education, and career outlook. It is important for individuals considering a career in healthcare to carefully evaluate their interests, strengths, and goals to determine which profession aligns best with their aspirations. Whether it be the meticulous attention to detail required for medical transcription or the focus on infection control and sterilization as a sterile processing technician, both professions offer unique opportunities to contribute to the field of healthcare.
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