What's the difference between a medical assistant vs. a CNA. First things first, a position as a CNA is not the same as a MA. They are supervised by registered nurses and report directly to them in case of any issues with the patient. External links provided on rasmussen.edu are for reference only. For example, years of experience, the type of setting where they work, and the shift they work may impact the hourly rate offered. : The BLS (May 2016) reported that there are 200,140 medical records and health information technicians—an occupational category closely related to coding—employed in the U.S. Medical assistants and CNAs have plenty of job opportunities in the healthcare industry. Rasmussen College does not guarantee, approve, control, or specifically endorse the information or products available on websites linked to, and is not endorsed by website owners, authors and/or organizations referenced. Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical duties. You know that entering the healthcare field means learning new technical and medical skills. Follow these five guidelines to narrow in on the best. When compared to medical assistants, CNAs have a much shorter training period. Only 15 percent work in hospitals, and the remainder can be found in outpatient facilities or chiropractors’ offices.1 Because many of these healthcare locations maintain daytime hours only, MAs are less likely to be scheduled to work overnight shifts or during holidays. The differences only continue from there. Medical assistants and certified nursing assistants are healthcare professionals that may share similar duties but are separate roles. Once your education is complete, you officially become a CNA by passing a state-mandated competency exam. Two of those confusing job titles are medical assistant (MA) and certified nursing assistant (CNA). 2. Unlike medical assistants, CNAs do not perform administrative duties. Medical Assistant vs CNA: Salary Differences As per BLS May 2019 occupational employment and wages report, medical assistants in the USA earned an hourly pay of $17.17 and an annual salary of $35,720 on an average. Indeed is not a career or legal advisor and does not guarantee job interviews or offers. However, consider pursuing a medical assistant position if you prefer administrative duties and less physical contact. Medical assistants typically work in clinics or ambulatory care. Medical assistants and nursing assistants can work in various healthcare settings. More info. While the tasks of a CNA vs Medical Assistant may be different, the skill set required to accomplish those tasks are quite similar. MA training programs last from 10 months to a year and some institutions offer a two-year medical assistant associate degree. MAs can perform clinical, administrative or specialized roles. Medical Assistant vs CNA Salary Differences Nationally, the median annual wage for medical assistants was $32,480 in May 2017 [v] . Medical Assistant vs. EMT/Paramedic: What You Need to Know. A CNA, also known as a certified nurse assistant or nursing assistant, is a healthcare professional who supports nurses with direct patient care. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Medical Coder; Number practicing in the United States: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS May 2016) reports that there were 623,560 medical assistants employed throughout the country. You must pass a competency test, and do some on the job training. We analyzed real-time job postings to uncover the top skills employers are looking for in these two important professions. You don’t want to choose a career path based on salary alone, but you do need to know that the time you invest in a new career will lead you to a stable job with plenty of opportunities for the foreseeable future. Both medical assistants and certified nursing assistants Federal law dictates that CNAs engage in a minimum of 16 clinical hours, but some programs will require more… Their roles overlap but both have distinct areas of expertise and responsibilities. Keep reading to learn all the ins and outs of a medical assistant vs. CNA job. Both of these roles involve the medical field but their job descriptions are very different. LPN vs. CNA Job Duties and Work Settings Both CNAs and LPNs are integral parts of a patient’s care, and some of their duties may overlap. A Medical Assistant can work in a variety of healthcare facilities including doctor’s offices, clinics, urgent care centers, and hospitals. Both can be found in hospitals, but each have different responsibilities there. However, the workload is usually heavy, so you must have a high level of physical and mental strength. Please select another program of interest. This is more than four times the national average of seven percent growth. Education ads list training time as full associates degrees (2 yrs). Committing to at least an Associate’s degree to become a registered nurse sounds like too much for you right now. They work in hospitals, physician offices and other healthcare facilities. Medical Assistant vs CNA Skill Sets. Related: Learn About Being a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant). Medical Assistant and CNA jobs differ in terms of their workplace and schedule. They maintain patient medical records, answer phones, oversee inventory, schedule patient appointments and perform other desk-top tasks. Fiberglass splints, wound care, wound dressings, set the doctors up with suture kits, assist doctors with pelvic exams, collect specimens and take them to lab, take patients to xray, ct, ultrasound, assist the nurses in whatever they need, take vital signs, register patients when they come in thru triage and be an all around gopher. MA’s will administer injections, medications, and take the patients health information. Thanks to the aging baby boomer population, the BLS predicts employment for this healthcare job to grow by 29 percent from 2016 to 2026. 1. They also provide internships, allowing candidates to gain valuable hands-on experience before beginning a career. • CNA works to provide care to patients whereas medical assistant can be employed to perform wide ranging duties. CNAs, on the other hand, work directly with patients all the time. Medical assistant vs. CNA: Education requirements Though MAs and CNAs are both essential to patient care, you won’t need a four-year degree to get started in one of these careers. Fill out the form to receive information about: There are some errors in the form. Nursing assistants are responsible for patient safety and take preventative measures to ensure their comfort and recovery. There are numerous job postings and school advertisements for Certified Medical Assistants. Typical programs last between 6 and 12 weeks. Medical assistance programs are more rigorous and include classes on anatomy and medical terminology. You’re ready to stop daydreaming and start narrowing down your options for healthcare careers. Medical assistants earn an average of $14.77 per hour. They usually do this under the supervision of physicians and registered nurses. To become a medical assistant vs. CNA, CNAs are required 75 hours of training. [1] According to BLS, the median salary for a medical assistant is $32,480 per year, as of 2017. Specialized medical assistants focus on a specific field of medicine such as gynecology, obstetrics or pediatrics. I work in the ER and I do many different things. The requirements for becoming a CNA vary from state to state. This role requires extra training and certification. Typical salaries range from $7.25 to $27.70 per hour, depending on location, experience and qualifications. So you may need to certify again if you move or take a job in another state. Here, you run tests, record samples and compile patient data. Medical assistants (MA) and certified nursing assistants (CNA) are health-care careers that involve working with patients of all ages and physical condition, providing them with high quality patient care. She believes in the power of words and knowledge and enjoys using both to encourage others on their learning journeys, Hannah Meinke | The average CNA makes between $25,000 and $30,000 per year. They mostly hire nurse assistants because the occupants often need help with personal hygiene, feeding and physical activities. Medical Assistant vs. CNA. Their clinical training provides adequate knowledge of how to handle these fluids and infectious diseases. CNAs: Nurse assistants often work long shifts, sometimes lasting 12 hours per shift. While both positions are entry-level jobs, medical assistants have the potential to earn a slightly higher salary than CNAs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Medical assistants: The work condition of medical assistants depends on their specialization. Most of the positions deal with direct patient care, making it difficult at times to know the difference between roles. Clinical MAs have similar functions as CNAs and work closely with patients. They have less of a hand in traditional medical duties and instead focus on helping patients with basic care in hospitals or nursing homes. This data does not represent starting salaries and employment conditions in your area may vary. If you’ve got your eye on becoming a CNA, you will have to become certified—it’s right there in the job title! Becoming a CNA requires more training than becoming a medical assistant; therefore, CNAs often have an easier time progressing into a career as an RN. Typically, CNAs require 75 hours of state-approved training and a competency test to be certified. 1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [information accessed August 6, 2018] www.bls.gov/ooh/. For nursing assistants, … Both occupations involve working with patients of all ages and physical conditions alongside nurses and physicians in a medical setting. Unlike medical assistants, CNAs do not perform administrative duties. Each state has licensing requirements for nursing aids and medical assistants. Their job duties include helping patients get dressed, bathe or shower, eat their meals and transfer between a bed and a wheelchair. Entering the healthcare profession may be done in several ways. The healthcare field offers a world of opportunities, all of which are important. Medical assistants aren’t required to have a postsecondary degree, though the BLS notes that employers may prefer candidates who have gone through an MA training program. What is the difference between Medical Assistant and CNA? Amazingly, Emergency Medical Technicians or EMTs have even a shorter training/education stint than MAs — anywhere from 8 weeks to 6 months, depending on the type of program they get accepted into. Many CNA programs do not offer internships, so candidates typically need to find real-life opportunities themselves. 07.27.2020. Medical assistants and CNAs can choose to work with researchers in the medical field. A CNA’s work of providing day-to-day care makes them a valuable part of any healthcare facility where patients may need to stay long-term. They can also help patients with physical activities, monitor inputs and outputs, check vital signs and respond to their calls. As noted above, Medical Assistants are responsible for both administrative and clinical tasks. Deciding between a medical assistant versus a CNA career doesn’t have to be difficult. Both professions involve working with patients but at different levels. This is an ideal work environment for administrative clinical assistants. MAs administer medications, provide injections and record patients' health information. The good news is, earning a Medical Assisting Diploma can take as few as 12 months to complete, allowing you to embark on your new healthcare career sooner than later. While both positions work in healthcare assistance, they have different responsibilities, duties, and educational and certification requirements. Diagnostic laboratories allow you to work in an environment with less patient contact. They are supervised by registered nurses and report directly to them in case of any issues with the patient. Though MAs and CNAs are both essential to patient care, you won’t need a four-year degree to get started in one of these careers. CNAs: Nursing assistant programs take a shorter period of six to 12 weeks, although the period varies by state. On the other hand, nursing assistants earned an hourly wage of $14.77 and yearly wages of $30,720 on average in the US. The Perfect First Step for Aspiring Nurses. These facilities are also called assisted living centers and cater to the elderly. Here are some other differences: MAs: Becoming an MA is more demanding than training as a CNA. For those considering a career in the medical field who may not want to dedicate years to medical school, becoming a medical assistant or nursing assistant is an excellent option. 4Completion time is dependent on transfer credits accepted and courses completed each term. Their administrative functions allow the few available physicians to concentrate on treating patients. Based on your experience, location and personal choices, you can work in these healthcare facilities: Hospitals provide medical assistants and nurse aides a fast-paced work environment where they can put their skills to the best use. Some states may also have additional requirements, like passing a background check or completing continuing education. Nursing assistants earn an average of $13.65 per hour. 15. CNA vs CMA hourly wages range from $13.77 per hour for certified nursing assistants to $16.28 for certified medical assistants. They walk, stand, bend, kneel, push and lift for long hours. Rasmussen College is not enrolling students in your state at this time. Lately that call has gotten too strong to ignore. All Rights Reserved. Rasmussen College may not prepare students for all positions featured within this content. They observe the patient for behavioral changes and report any drastic events to nurses. A CNA, also known as a certified nurse assistant or nursing assistant, is a healthcare professional who supports nurses with direct patient care. Working in a hospital provides ample hands-on experience, which you can leverage if you want to pursue advanced health studies. Related: Learn About Being a Registered Nurse (RN). Please visit www.rasmussen.edu/degrees for a list of programs offered. Certified Nursing Assistants work in hospitals, nursing care facilities, assisted living facilities, and home health care. 3Burning-Glass.com (analysis of 176,594 nursing assistant job postings, July 01, 2017 – June 30, 2018). They answer phones for doctors and hospitals, greet patients, fill out insurance forms, and help to maintain patient records. MA duties depend on the specialty and size of the employer, location and level of training. Certified nursing assistants earned a median annual wage of $27,520 in May 2017 [vi] . If you are comfortable with hands-on patient care, a CNA role will suit you. Medical assistants have an average annual salary of $34,800. They also need on-the-job training to learn the employer's policies and operational procedures. 10.19.2020, Kirsten Slyter | This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience. The main difference between an MA and a CNA is that MAs perform clinical and administrative duties while CNAs act as nurse aids. 4. Medical assistants enjoy the best of both worlds in healthcare facilities as they move between direct patient care and administrative tasks. [2] Please visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website for more salary information. The BLS reports that most CNAs work in nursing care facilities (40 percent) or assisted living facilities (11 percent).1 They’re also more likely to work in hospitals than MAs. Conversely, the average certified nursing assistant pulled in around $28,530 (just over $13 per hour). 09.14.2020, Kirsten Slyter | Understanding the differences and similarities between the two can help you make an informed career choice. Both careers require certification and a state license. Easily apply to jobs with an Indeed Resume, 3 Habits That Could Increase Your Chances of Getting the Job, Medical Assistants vs. CNAs: Everything You Need to Know. Rasmussen College is a regionally accredited college authorized to operate as a postsecondary educational institution by the Illinois Board of Higher Education. These programs teach medical terminology and anatomy that provide a solid foundation for a healthcare career. What’s great about becoming a CNA, it will only take 3 to 6 months of school/training. The role requires physical strength and stamina as they must be strong enough to lift objects that weigh 50 pounds or more. If you'd like to know more about becoming a CNA, check out our article, "What Is a CNA? Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and certified medical assistants (CMAs) are both allied health care service providers or professionals who work with patients of all ages and physical conditions. While their schedule will vary depending on their workplace, they can have the opportunity for a more standard 9 to 5 work week. Now it’s up to you to decide which of these career paths could be your first step into the world of healthcare. Be selective, organized and efficient when you're searching for a job. … Medical assistants and nurse aides can work directly with patients at home. Related: Learn About Being a Medical Assistant. Every time you’re at the doctor, you wonder what it would be like to be the one wearing scrubs, assisting doctors and helping patients. CNAs provide hands-on care including assisting patients with feeding and bathing. 10.05.2020, Will Erstad | Medical Assistant vs. CNA Responsibilities: Despite the similar titles of a Medical Assistant and Nursing Assistant, the job duties differ significantly between these two careers. Once MAs have landed that job, they can expect to earn a median annual wage of $32,480.1, CNAs are also enjoying faster than average job growth of 11 percent from 2016 through 2026, according to the BLS. • Medical assistants perform more of administrative and clerical duties than CNAs. The position of an MA focuses on the medical care of the patient, as well as the administrative work. There are, however, some important differences in the kinds of patient care each professional can provide. By selecting "Submit", I authorize Rasmussen College to contact me by email, phone or text message at the number provided. MA’s … Activities of daily living (ADLS) assistance, Financial Aid and FAFSA (for those who qualify). Salary data represents national, averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience. Ashley is a freelance writer for Collegis education who writes student-focused articles on behalf of Rasmussen College. On the administrative side, you can find MAs scheduling appointments and keeping patient records up to date with correct family history and new information from the visit. On the patient care side, their job duties typically include taking vital signs, administering shots and medication, preparing blood samples for lab testing and helping physicians complete exams. Which is fantastic, remember becoming a medical assistant is 8 to 15 months. Both occupations involve working with patients and collaborating with nurses and physicians in medical settings. These habits can sometimes increase the chances of getting a positive response from employers. CNAs help with bedside patient care, take samples and support registered nurses' needs. The work of CNAs exposes them to bodily fluids. They also take patients’ vital signs and communicate their patients’ health concerns to nurses. However, many CNA training programs do not include internships or other hands-on experience, so students must arrange such experience on their own. The valuable care CNAs provide is needed round-the-clock, so they’re more likely to have a schedule with overnight, weekend and holiday shifts. Medical assistants aren’t required to have a postsecondary degree, though the BLS notes that employers may prefer candidates who have gone through an MA training program. Medical Assistant program vs CNA You see, medical assistants are required to complete a 2-year degree program to pursue a career in this field. Connect with Rasmussen College on Facebook, Connect with Rasmussen College on Instagram, Connect with Rasmussen College on LinkedIn, Connect with Rasmussen College on Pinterest, Connect with Rasmussen College on Twitter, Connect with Rasmussen College on Youtube, Human Resources and Organizational Leadership, Information Technology Project Management, CNAs work in nursing care facilities (40 percent), What Is a CNA? Ive also seen programs listed for Certified CLINICAL Medical Assistants-their training time is … The median annual wage for CNAs was $27,520 in 2017, with those in hospitals earning $29,260 and those working in government bringing in $32,860.1. Some employers offer part-time shifts, and nursing assistants also work on weekends and holidays on a rotating basis. Licensed practical nurses typically work in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for a CNA is $27,520 per year, as of 2017. They spend much of their shifts walking or moving. Medical assistants perform more administrative duties than CNA’s do. Some factors may influence the rate of pay for both CMAs and CNAs. Medical assistants can expect job opportunities to grow much faster than the national average for all occupations. There is no obligation to enroll. A smaller percentage works in home healthcare. Medical Assistant versus Certified Nursing Assistant Updated By Staff Writer on June 25, 2020 Gaining employment in the medical field is a great career move, especially since this sector is expanding quickly, with jobs like medical assistant among the fastest growing occupations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . The national average of seven percent growth allow the few available physicians to concentrate on treating patients eat their and. Ma focuses on the other hand, do well with strong communication skills the! 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