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Respiratory Therapist vs Veterinary Assistant

Respiratory Therapist vs Veterinary Assistant

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When it comes to choosing a career path in the medical field, there are many options to consider. Two popular choices are becoming a respiratory therapist or a veterinary assistant. While both careers involve working with patients and providing medical care, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to be a respiratory therapist and a veterinary assistant, the job descriptions for each, the education and training required, and the career outlook and salary potential.

Respiratory Therapist vs Veterinary Assistant: Career Outlook and Salary

Respiratory Therapist:

  • According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
  • The median annual wage for respiratory therapists was $62,810 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $87,490.

Veterinary Assistant:

  • According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of veterinary assistants is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
  • The median annual wage for veterinary assistants was $29,380 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $41,490.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the medical field can be a rewarding and fulfilling decision. Both respiratory therapy and veterinary assisting offer opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients, whether they are humans or animals. While respiratory therapists have a more specialized scope of practice and require more education and training, veterinary assistants can enter the field with just a high school diploma or equivalent. Ultimately, the choice between these two careers will depend on your interests, career goals, and passion for working with either human patients or animals. Whichever path you choose, both careers offer the opportunity to make a positive impact in the healthcare field.

Dreambound's educational programs are available in diverse locations. Explore these recommended blogs for a comprehensive examination of the two vocations, including in-depth insights into their prerequisites and guidance on initiating your journey:

Keziah Lim
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Keziah Lim
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