When it comes to choosing a career in the healthcare field, there are many options to consider. Two popular choices are becoming a physical therapy technician or a radiology technician. Both of these careers offer rewarding opportunities to help patients and make a positive impact on their lives. However, there are some key differences between the two that potential students should be aware of before making a decision. In this blog post, we will explore the roles of physical therapy technicians and radiology technicians, the education and training required for each, and the career outlook and salary potential for both professions.

Key Points

• Physical therapy technicians assist physical therapists with patient rehabilitation, while radiology technicians perform diagnostic imaging procedures.
• Physical therapy technicians usually need a high school diploma and short-term training, whereas radiology technicians require an associate degree and certification.
• Physical therapy aides have a median annual wage of $33,520, and radiologic technologists earn a median annual wage of $73,410.

What is a Physical Therapy Technician and Radiology Technician?

Physical Therapy Technician: A physical therapy technician, also known as a physical therapy aide, works under the supervision of a physical therapist to assist in providing treatment to patients with physical injuries or disabilities. They help patients perform exercises, use therapeutic equipment, and assist with other tasks as directed by the physical therapist. Physical therapy technicians play a crucial role in the rehabilitation process and help patients regain their mobility and independence.

Radiology Technician: A radiology technician, also known as a radiologic technologist or radiographer, is responsible for performing diagnostic imaging procedures, such as x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, to help diagnose and treat various medical conditions. They operate the imaging equipment, position patients correctly, and ensure the quality of the images produced. Radiology technicians work closely with radiologists, and physicians who interpret the images, to provide accurate and timely diagnoses.

Difference between a Physical Therapy Technician and a Radiology Technician

While both physical therapy technicians and radiology technicians work in the healthcare field and have the common goal of helping patients, there are some key differences between the two professions. Here are some of the main differences:

• Job Duties: Physical therapy technicians primarily assist physical therapists in providing treatment to patients with physical injuries or disabilities. They focus on helping patients regain their mobility and strength through exercises and other therapeutic interventions. Radiology technicians, on the other hand, perform diagnostic imaging procedures using specialized equipment to help diagnose and treat various medical conditions.

• Work Environment: Physical therapy technicians typically work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, nursing homes, or private clinics. They may also provide home healthcare services. Radiology technicians, on the other hand, work primarily in hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, or outpatient clinics. They may also work in emergency rooms or operating rooms.

• Scope of Practice: Physical therapy technicians work under the direct supervision of a physical therapist and are limited in the tasks they can perform. They assist with patient exercises, set up equipment, and perform administrative tasks. Radiology technicians, on the other hand, have more autonomy in their practice. They are responsible for operating the imaging equipment, positioning patients, and ensuring the quality of the images produced.

• Patient Interaction: Physical therapy technicians have more direct and continuous patient interaction compared to radiology technicians. They work closely with patients during their rehabilitation process, providing hands-on assistance and support. Radiology technicians, on the other hand, have less direct patient interaction and primarily focus on obtaining high-quality images for diagnostic purposes.

Physical Therapy Technician vs Radiology Technician: Job Description

Physical Therapy Technician Job Description: Physical therapy technicians assist physical therapists in providing treatment to patients with physical injuries or disabilities. Some of their job duties may include:

• Assisting patients with exercises and therapeutic activities
• Setting up and maintaining therapeutic equipment
• Preparing treatment areas and ensuring cleanliness and safety
• Administering hot and cold packs and other modalities as directed by the physical therapist
• Assisting with patient transfers and ambulation
• Documenting patient progress and reporting observations to the physical therapist

Radiology Technician Job Description: Radiology technicians perform diagnostic imaging procedures to help diagnose and treat various medical conditions. Some of their job duties may include:

• Operating imaging equipment, such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, and MRI machines
• Positioning patients correctly to obtain high-quality images
• Adjusting imaging equipment settings to ensure optimal image quality
• Assisting radiologists during procedures, such as fluoroscopy or angiography
• Ensuring patient safety and following radiation safety protocols
• Documenting patient information and maintaining accurate records

Physical Therapy Technician vs Radiology Technician: Education and Training

Physical Therapy Technician Education and Training: To become a physical therapy technician, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require the completion of a formal training program, which can range from a few weeks to several months. These programs provide instruction on anatomy, physiology, therapeutic techniques, and medical terminology. Hands-on clinical experience is also an important part of the training.

Radiology Technician Education and Training: Becoming a radiology technician requires more formal education and training. Most radiology technician programs are offered at the associate degree level and take about two years to complete. These programs include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Coursework may cover topics such as radiographic positioning, radiation safety, patient care, and image interpretation. Graduates of accredited radiology technician programs are eligible to take the national certification exam to become a registered radiologic technologist.

Physical Therapy Technician vs Radiology Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

Physical Therapy Technician Career Outlook and Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of physical therapy aides is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is primarily due to the increasing demand for physical therapy services as the population ages and the need for rehabilitation services. The median annual wage for physical therapy aides was $33,520 in May 2023.

Radiology Technician Career Outlook and Salary: The BLS projects that employment of radiologic technologists and technicians will grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected due to the aging population and the need for diagnostic imaging for various medical conditions. The median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $73,410 in May 2023.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career path in the healthcare field is an important decision. Both physical therapy technicians and radiology technicians play vital roles in patient care and have rewarding career opportunities. Consider your interests, skills, and long-term goals when deciding between these two professions. If you enjoy working directly with patients and helping them regain their mobility, a career as a physical therapy technician may be a good fit. If you are more interested in diagnostic imaging and working with advanced technology, becoming a radiology technician may be the right choice. Ultimately, both professions offer fulfilling careers with the potential for growth and advancement.

Discover Dreambound's programs, conveniently offered in various locations. Find out more about these two vocations by visiting:

• Physical Therapy Technician in Maine
• Radiology Technician in Maine