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Physical Therapy Technician vs Respiratory Therapist

Physical Therapy Technician vs Respiratory Therapist

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Key Points:

  • Physical Therapy Technicians assist physical therapists; Respiratory Therapists treat patients with breathing issues.
  • Physical Therapy Technicians generally earn less than Respiratory Therapists.
  • Respiratory Therapist jobs are expected to grow faster than Physical Therapy Technician jobs.
  • Both roles require in-person training, but Respiratory Therapists need more advanced education.
  • Physical Therapy Technician training is typically shorter and less expensive than Respiratory Therapist training.

The healthcare industry is a rapidly growing field, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals who can provide quality care to patients. Physical Therapy Technicians and Respiratory Therapists are both important members of the healthcare team, but they have different roles and responsibilities. Understanding these differences can help you choose the career path that aligns with your interests and goals.

Physical Therapy Technician vs Respiratory Therapist: Career Outlook and Salary

Physical Therapy Technician:

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of Physical Therapy Technicians is projected to grow 26 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for physical therapy services as the population ages and more people require rehabilitation services. The median annual wage for Physical Therapy Technicians was $26,240 in May 2019.

Respiratory Therapist:

The BLS projects that the employment of Respiratory Therapists will grow 21 percent from 2018 to 2028, also much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the aging population and the increasing prevalence of respiratory conditions such as COPD and asthma. The median annual wage for Respiratory Therapists was $61,330 in May 2019.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the healthcare industry is a noble and rewarding decision. Both Physical Therapy Technicians and Respiratory Therapists play crucial roles in helping patients improve their quality of life. If you enjoy working with patients of all ages and want to focus on physical rehabilitation, a career as a Physical Therapy Technician may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you have a passion for respiratory health and want to specialize in treating patients with respiratory disorders, becoming a Respiratory Therapist may be a better fit. Consider your interests, strengths, and long-term goals as you make your decision.

Dreambound provides programs in several locations. Get detailed information about these two vocations by checking:

Athena Kan
Written by
Athena Kan

Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.

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