When it comes to choosing a career in the medical field, there are many different paths to consider. Two popular options are becoming a radiology technician or a respiratory therapist. While both of these professions involve working with patients and helping to diagnose and treat medical conditions, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to be a radiology technician and a respiratory therapist, as well as the differences in job description, education and training, and career outlook and salary.

What is a Radiology Technician and Respiratory Therapist?

Radiology Technician:

• A radiology technician, also known as a radiologic technologist, is a healthcare professional who specializes in using medical imaging equipment to capture diagnostic images of the inside of the body.
• They work closely with radiologists, who are physicians that interpret the images to make diagnoses.
• Radiology technicians may work in hospitals, clinics, or imaging centers.

Respiratory Therapist:

• A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the assessment, treatment, and management of patients with breathing disorders.
• They work with patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, who have conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or emphysema.
• Respiratory therapists may work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or home healthcare settings.

Difference between a Radiology Technician and Respiratory Therapist

Job Focus

• Radiology technicians primarily work with medical imaging equipment to capture diagnostic images. They are responsible for positioning patients, operating the equipment, and ensuring that the images are of high quality.
• Respiratory therapists primarily work with patients who have breathing disorders. They perform diagnostic tests to assess lung capacity and function, administer treatments such as oxygen therapy or inhalation medications, and educate patients on managing their condition.

Patient Interaction

• Radiology technicians typically have limited direct interaction with patients. They may explain the imaging process to patients, but their main focus is on capturing high-quality images.
• Respiratory therapists, on the other hand, have regular and direct contact with patients. They work closely with patients to assess their breathing, administer treatments, and provide education and support.

Scope of Practice

• Radiology technicians are responsible for operating medical imaging equipment and capturing diagnostic images. They must follow strict protocols to ensure patient safety and image quality.
• Respiratory therapists have a broader scope of practice. They perform diagnostic tests, administer treatments, monitor patients' respiratory status, and provide education and support. They may also assist with emergency procedures and ventilator management.

Radiology Technician vs Respiratory Therapist: Job Description

Radiology Technician:

• Operate medical imaging equipment, such as X-ray machines, CT scanners, or MRI machines.
• Position patients and equipment to ensure high-quality diagnostic images.
• Follow safety protocols to protect patients from radiation exposure.
• Assist radiologists in interpreting images and making diagnoses.
• Maintain patient records and ensure that images are properly stored.

Respiratory Therapist:

• Perform diagnostic tests, such as measuring lung capacity or conducting sleep studies.
• Administer treatments, such as oxygen therapy, inhalation medications, or chest physiotherapy.
• Monitor patients' respiratory status and make adjustments to treatments as necessary.
• Educate patients on managing their condition and using respiratory equipment.
• Assist with emergency procedures, such as intubation or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Radiology Technician vs Respiratory Therapist: Education and Training

Radiology Technician:

• To become a radiology technician, you will need to complete a certificate, associate's degree, or bachelor's degree program in radiologic technology.
• These programs typically include coursework in anatomy, physiology, patient care, medical imaging techniques, and radiation safety.
• After completing your education, you will need to pass a certification exam to become a registered radiologic technologist.
• Continuing education is also required to maintain your certification and stay up-to-date with advancements in the field.

Respiratory Therapist:

• To become a respiratory therapist, you will need to complete an associate's degree program in respiratory therapy.
• These programs typically include coursework in anatomy, physiology, patient care, cardiopulmonary diseases, and therapeutic treatments.
• After completing your education, you will need to pass a certification exam to become a certified respiratory therapist (CRT).
• Some respiratory therapists choose to pursue additional certification as a registered respiratory therapist (RRT) to increase their job opportunities.
• Continuing education is also required to maintain your certification and stay current in the field.

Radiology Technician vs Respiratory Therapist: Career Outlook and Salary

Radiology Technician:

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $73,410 in May 2023, according to the BLS.

Respiratory Therapist:

• According to the BLS, the employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 13 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $77,960 in May 2023, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as a radiology technician or a respiratory therapist can be a difficult decision. Both professions offer rewarding opportunities to work in the medical field and make a difference in patients' lives. Consider your interests, strengths, and career goals when making your decision. It may also be helpful to speak with professionals in each field or shadow them to get a better understanding of what the day-to-day work is like. Ultimately, the right choice is the one that aligns with your passion and allows you to thrive in your career.

Dreambound ensures accessibility to its educational programs by offering them in diverse locations. For a detailed exploration of the exciting opportunities within these two vocations, we encourage you to visit:

• Radiology Technician in Georgia
• Respiratory Therapist in New York
• Radiology Technician classes near you
• Respiratory Therapist classes near you