Some of these administrative duties may include: Both medical assistants and LPN's are extremely valued members of the medical care team, providing critical support to ensure patients receive high quality and efficient care. Some may attend an LPN program at a community college or technical school. There are no formal educational requirements to become a medical assistant. A key difference between a Medical Assistant and an LPN lies in their workplace and schedule. Like so many other people, I was laid off due to the economy. In some states, MAs earn more than Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) without entailing too much work. The main difference is that an LPN is a Nurse, where as a Medical Assistant is an Assistant. The mean annual salary for medical assistants was $32,850 in May 2016 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, compared to a mean annual salary of $44,840 for LPNs. For instance, a medical assistant or LPN may earn a higher than average salary if he or she works in a location with a higher cost of living and/or has several years of work experience. Medical Assistants, or MAs, are more flexible in their working hours compared to Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Meanwhile, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) work in a more specialized field, Differences Between Fraternity And Sorority, Differences Between “Tend To” and “Intend To”, Difference Between Endoscopy and Laparoscopy. As you can probably guess, This was a difficult one to make! But lots of students may not be aware of the distinctions between a medical assistant and a licensed practical nurse (LPN) before embarking on a nursing career. Unfortunately, there are no shortcuts in this regard. MAs work for doctors using their licenses, which also mean that the doctors will be held responsible for any legal actions faced by the MAs. This may not always be the case, but these are typically the settings which LPNs are exposed to. In some states such as WA stated MA’s are Licensed. This is an excellent choice for working MAs as online/hybrid programs offer more flexibility than traditional campus programs. Factors that may influence salary levels for both these professions include geographic location, type of employer and years of experience and education level. The need for healthcare professionals is higher than ever before and will only continue to increase in the coming years. About a year ago I completed a CMA to LPN program at Anoka Technical College in Anoka, Minnesota. CMA vs RN: Similarities, Differences, and Overlap. Medical assistants and LPN's share several of the same daily tasks, which include basic patient care under the supervision of an RN and/or physician. To begin, the training for each career takes roughly one year. The Importance of Holistic Nursing Care: How to Completely Care for your Patients, 5 Important Qualities to Be an Exceptional LPN. One benefit of community colleges is that they may offer a degree in nursing for LPN students. In fact, both CMAs and LPNs require only a couple of years of postsecondary education. Take a closer look at each position to help you determine whether you’re better suited to become a medical assistant (MA) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN). There are different opinions as to which program is better. Some classes, such as anatomy and physiology might be transferable, but again, that depends on the school. In most cases, however, employers seek medical assistants who have completed a formal training program. Degrees for an LPN, or Licensed Practical Nurse, and CMA, or Certified Medical Assistant, are now a trend. Hi all! Others may look into online or hybrid programs. Another key difference is that Medical Assistants work with patients under the direction for a Doctor and … Factors that may influence salary levels for both these professions include geographic location, type of employer and years of experience and education level. The "mobility" or "pathway" program from CMA to LPN met all the MN state board of nursing required boardabilities and 6 of us sat for the boards and passed on our first try. Aspiring LPNs, on the other hand, must begin their careers with a formal training program, which usually takes about 12 months to complete. Also, MAs should be aware that online learning can limit interactions between students and faculty, which some find is critical to their education. Similar to most medical assistant programs, LPN programs are offered at many community colleges and technical schools; however, LPN programs require students to complete much of their training in person. These tasks include: While LPN's and medical assistants do perform several of the same tasks, LPN's provide more extensive patient care, often for patients who require longer term care such as those in a nursing home. Medical assistant VS LPN there isnt anything to compare a LPN is A Nurse a MA isnt.. you do what the title says assist medically. What Types of Schools Offer an MA to LPN Program? The average annual national salary for a licensed practical nurse for the year 2012 was $41,540. To become a medical assistant typically takes one year for a certification degree, or two years to complete an associate’s degree program in … A Medical Assistant must administer through an injection ordered by a doctor. The salary may be comparable, but it depends on the area of your residence. For example, pharmacology courses for MAs may not be as in-depth as in an LPN program. Have you been thinking about studying to be a medical assistant (MA) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN)? While there is some overlap in terms of responsibilities, these medical careers demand totally different requirements. Similarities between Medical Assistant and LPN Careers. Salary and job growth outlook. While these professions share some of the same job responsibilities, there are some key differences in education requirements, job description and average salary between a career as a medical assistant and an LPN career. Another difference between medical assistants and LPN's is job setting and hours. Hi everyone, First of all, thank you for reading this! However, there are some distinct differences between LPNs and CNAs that are related to educational level and scope of practice, and salaries are also different. LPNs Vs. CNAs. Medical Assistants can practice in various medical specializations, and they are likely to find some interesting work in their field. Doctor’s offices tend to make use of these medical personnel more since they are paid less compared to Licensed Vocational Nurses or Registered Nurses. MAs do not have licenses like LPNs. Degrees in the field of medicine hold a promising future for the career. i was a cma and now lpn, i am telling you the difference is day and night. However, for those in a degree program (associates), the time frame can be longer- about two years. However, MAs exploring LPN programs should keep a few things in mind. lpn's are not being phased out, who is going to work in the nursing homes, home health and rehab centers. These careers do not require the same sacrifice of time and finances as a medical degree. They do this through taking blood pressure and temperature, administering medication, and performing certain procedures. Also, Medical Assistant courses focus on ambulatory and emergency services, while a LPN courses focus on hospital and clinical care. These careers also allow a professional to perform a variety of … If you attain the certification for Clinical Certified Medical Assistant (CCMA), then you will be of higher value in the medical field, and this can be a plus for future employment in some states. How Long is an LPN Program if Courses Can be Transferred? A CMA’s primary responsibilities include patient assessment such as obtaining a medical history, medication history, allergy information, doing a physical exam, and checking vital signs. Because of their clinical experience as a medical assistant, they will likely be successful in their LPN program. Education Requirements for LPNs and Medical Assistants In these cases, aspiring medical assistants need only find a physician who is willing to provide on-the-job training. When embarking on a career in the nursing field, many students may not be aware of the differences between medical assistant and licensed practical nurse (LPN). I am sure by now you have heard about the latest craze taking the world by storm: Pokémon Go. There are also online or hybrid options available. One similarity between CMAs and RNs is that both work in the healthcare field, and generally assist with patient care in a variety of ways. LPNs work under the direction of RNs and under their own license, so the approach to patient care is a little different. Accreditation should also be a factor- the program may be accredited locally instead of nationally. CNA vs. LPN Licensing & Certification. Students earn a more well-rounded education in degree programs. Once candidates have passed this exam they may begin working as an LPN. The salary can be influenced by a number of factors, including the employer, location, as well as the level of education and experience. Unlike medical assistants, LPN's are required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN). This time frame is shortened if courses from an MA program can be transferred. Assists patients with activities of daily living, including dressing, bathing, using the bathroom, etc. November 5, 2019 . While the positions are similar, there are some key differences. Considering becoming a medical assistant or licensed practical nurse (LPN)? What Is the Difference Between a CNA and an LPN? Under the supervision of an RN, the LPN also performs the following job duties: Alternatively, medical assistants generally perform administrative tasks to ensure the efficient and smooth running of physician’s office or clinic, in addition to the basic patient care tasks mentioned above. Interested in a career in the medical field? Of them, several enter into medical assistant and licensed practical nursing (LPN) positions, fueled by the prospect of making a difference in the lives of patients. For this reason, MAs should be cautious when searching online for “MA to LPN bridge programs”- they may not meet educational standards for their state. Because licensure is not required to work as a medical assistant, aspiring medical assistants can begin working as soon as they have completed their training program. 2. The American Association of Medical Assistants offers the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification examination to candidates who have completed a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). We are no longer required to have a provider as a “co-signer” on our licenses, thus every time we change jobs we do not have to get a new license. The time frame for when an MA can become an LPN depends on how many courses, if any, can be transferred. Nevertheless, it is important to choose a reputable and accredited school when planning to participate in such programs. While many medical mssistant job openings do not require certification, medical assistants may also choose to become certified after graduation in order to increase employment and earning potential. LPNs can earn a certificate, and it usually can be completed faster as not many general education courses are required as with an associate’s program. There were 8 CMA's who entered the program and 7 that graduated. Both programs require participants to pass the examinations after graduation. Vocational schools are also an option. Medical Assistant vs Licensed Practical Nurse. The main difference between these two programs is that the nurses’ courses are focused on a hospital care setting, whereas MA courses are concentrated on ambulatory care. Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), Collecting patient’s symptoms and medical information, Administering medication and vaccinations, Collecting samples (e.g., blood, urine, etc.). CNA's and LPN's also have different licensing and certification requirements for aspiring nurses to be aware of. A clinical medical assistant performs duties, such as drawing blood or sterilizing medical instruments, although job responsibilities differ by state. It's an excellent option for those eager to get out into the workforce. MAs work under a provider's license- physicians, NPs, or PAs. Meanwhile, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) work in a more specialized field, and they are usually placed in long-term care settings, hospitals, prisons, camps, and in offices of specializing doctors. There are several options for MAs who wish to enter an LPN program. Extended Work Schedules - LPNs may be required to work shifts of longer than 8 hours. Medical Assistant/CMA VS LPN in Oregon. Just FYI, Your email address will not be published. Usually, LPN programs can take around 12 to 18 months to complete. The LPN program offers a wider look into the human lifespan and care through the ages than many medical assistant programs do. How to become a Medical Assistant. CMA vs CNA Programs. LPN candidates will be required to pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) following completion of their state-approved and accredited Practical Nursing program. When deciding between a career as a medical assistant or an LPN, it is important to be aware of the differences in education requirements for each position. LPNs, on the other hand, made $44,840 per year. Learn more about LPN classes, courses and curriculum. 3. This is because MAs do not have licenses; instead, they work for the doctor and depend on his license, and that makes the doctor accountable for any legal actions. Medical Assistants are trained to draw blood, while LPNs administer medication, provide wound care, change dressings, perform catheterizations and collaborate with the health care team to develop a plan of care. Medical Assistant VS LPN - What's The Difference? The mean annual salary for medical assistants was $32,850 in May 2016 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, compared to a mean annual salary of $44,840 for LPNs. The amount of time to complete an LPN training is the same with MA training, but it depends whether the MA program is a two-year program or simply a diploma program. Providing patient care includes assisting patient with activities of daily living, such as hygiene and feeding, wound care and preparing patients for diagnostic testing or procedures. American Medical Technologists (AMT) exam awards a medical assistant with the title of RMA (Registered Medical Assistant). This is because RNs … Healthcare is a field that is constantly growing and evolving. However, not all their prior education as an MA counts towards their prerequisites needed for admission in the LPN program, or for program requirements. LPN programs are designed to allow students to not only perform bedside tasks but work up to their scope of practice from a nursing point of view. CMA Training. I am a Medical Assistant and I have my own license. An LPN works under the supervision of an RN and can perform additional nursing duties. Overall, an LPN focuses on providing direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) and/or physician, while a medical assistant performs several administrative duties such as scheduling appointments or preparing insurance paperwork in addition to basic clinical tasks such as taking a patient’s vital signs. Today I discuss the differences between the duties of nurses and medical assistants! These jobs are commonly confused because of the slight overlap in job duties. For instance, a medical assistant or LPN may earn a higher than average salary if he or she works in a location with a higher cost of living and/or has several years of work exper… Meanwhile, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) work in a more specialized field, and they are usually placed in long-term care settings, hospitals, prisons, camps, and in offices of specializing doctors. A CNA works under the supervision of nursing staff, usually an LPN or a registered nurse (RN), to provide basic care to patients. Because of the variability, students are encouraged to first check with their state board of nursing- some boards specifically state that to be licensed as an LPN, one must graduate from an approved nursing program. How Does a Medical Assistant Become an LPN? For instance, a medical assistant position is more flexible than a licensed practical nurse considering medical assistants can choose to do clinical or administrative roles. When the exam is passed, candidates will be able to begin work as a LPN. As a result, they cannot participate in deeper areas of  certain medical procedures. American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) exam awards a medical assistant the title of CMA (Certified Medical Assistant). Which of the two do you think is better and what differences do both have? While this article has some good information I feel that you need to do more research. Medical assistants, however, are not required to hold any similar licensing to begin work as a medical assistant. Are There Any Medical Assistant to LPN Bridge Programs? By Remington College Posted November 7, 2017. CMA and LPN programs are both medical field programs that require participants to pass an exam. There are many similarities between the career path of a medical assistant and an LPN. There are many differences between licensed vocational nurses, or LVNs, and certified medical assistants, or CMAs. MAs can work on a variety of medical specializations while LPNs are more focused on long-term care such as in a hospital setting. When one desires to become a Medical Assistant (MA), he will likely enjoy better working hours. But while these jobs are similar, they have distinct differences that prospective students should consider before enrolling in school. 5. ( link: http://www.pokemongo.com/en-us/ ) Since the game has been released, it has boomed into one of the most talked about subjects online. the lvn education is much much more on depth and covers many many more areas. MAs and LPNs have more or less the same salary, but everything depends on the area where you are practicing. Usually the work schedule is placed in the daytime since the work involves staying in a doctor’s office or that sort of setting. While the positions do share some same basic job functions, the medical assistant provides additional administrative support to a physician or clinic, while the LPN offers more in-depth hands on patient care. 6. In some medical offices, MAs and LPNs may share similar tasks, but LPNs can engage in in-depth patient procedures since they possess a license. Many vocational schools offer online learning as well. A Medical Assistant can work in a variety of healthcare facilities including doctor’s offices, clinics, urgent care centers, and hospitals. In some cases, individuals may begin a career as a medical assistant with only a high school diploma and no additional education or training required. Additionally, individual state nursing boards, as well as schools, outline what can be transferred and what can not. In short, Medical Assistants are typically the professionals who assist patients to their room… For example, both take vital signs and work with medical technology. Once you enter the job field, some of the job responsibilities will the same. LPNs will likely earn lower salaries than RNs. While the duties of Medical Assistants and Licensed Practical Nurses are very similar, they have some important distinctions. Depending on the school, students may be able to earn a diploma in as little as nine months, or an associate’s degree in 18-24 months. Many community colleges and technical schools offer medical assistant training programs, which generally take one to two years to complete. Medical Assistant vs. LPN Salary As of May 2016, the mean annual salary for medical assistants was $32,850, according to the data of the Bureau of Labor Statistics. There are several key differences between a CNA and an LPN. Perhaps you even feel called to do so, and you've made the decision to change your life's course and get a solid education that may take you to that next step. Some students could continue working and complete the program in 18 months at a part-time rate. Medical Assistant vs Licensed Nurse (LPN/LVN) Jump to Section. lpn's/lvn's are licensed nurses and cma's have a certification, there is a big difference. If you were like me, being a child growing up in the 90's and early 2000's, you probably had, Medical Assistant vs. LPN Licensing & Certification. If you decide to become a Medical Assistant, you need to have people skills since you will be greeting patients and placing them in their respective rooms. Many medical assistants work in physician’s offices or ambulatory clinics with traditional daytime hours, while LPNs more often find positions in hospitals, nursing homes and even patient’s homes working a range of hours and shifts. While the positions do share a few of the same basic job functions, the LPN provides more in-depth hands on patient care, while the CNA assists the LPN with a limited scope of job duties. MA and nurses are both responsible for preventing the spread of infection and illness by providing patients with a clean environment where they receive their care. There are many similarities and differences, however both careers are rewarding because you get to help patients out in their time of need. 4. They have the advantage of being exposed to patient care, and can already perform basic nursing functions independently such as: MAs looking to advance their career and become a practical nurse have several options available. Cares for patients with ventilators and tracheostomy tubes, Provides feedings through nasogastric or gastrostomy tubes, Monitors patients progress and alerts appropriate physicians as needed, Executes a nursing care plan under the direction of an RN, Collecting a patient’s insurance information, Completing patient information and insurance paperwork, Making patient appointments, answering phones, greeting patients, filing medical records and other office work, Performing bookkeeping and medical billing tasks, Sterilizing equipment needed for patient examinations and procedures, Taking vital signs and identifying abnormal readings. In addition, though it’s not a well-known fact, MAs are considered higher-ranking compared to CNAs. Medical assistant to LPN bridge programs may only take 11 months of full-time study because of a student's medical assistant experience. In most states, the term licensed practical nurse, or LPN, is used instead of LVN; the two are otherwise the same in terms of education, job tasks and scope of practice. Certified Medical Assistant Vs. Certified Nursing Assistant Vs. LPN.  You will also be in charge of recording the patient’s vital signs and preparing them for their exams. Of course, it also depends on the MA program. Providing patient care is one job duty shared among medical assistants and nurses. Some MAs hope to become licensed and focus on more clinical patient care and explore becoming LPNs. Required fields are marked *, Notify me of followup comments via e-mail, July 26, 2012 • 1 comment. Learn more about an LPN salary. Use the drop down menu below to jump to a specific section. If you're reading this, then more than likely, you already know that you want to help people. While a medical assistant program includes coursework related to administrative tasks such as medical insurance and bookkeeping in addition to clinical tasks, an LPN program is structured around learning necessary clinical skills for taking care of patients. First, some online programs are based in another state, and therefore students should be familiar with their state board licensing requirements. If you attain the certification for Clinical Certified Medical Assistant (CCMA), then you will be of higher value in the medical field, and this can be a plus for future employment in some states. Individuals with a desire to work in healthcare may want to consider pursuing a career either as a certified medical assistant (CMA) or as a licensed practice nurse (LPN). MA vs. LPN: The basics. To become a CMA or a CNA you must meet the specific educational and program requirements for each job. LPN training includes more procedures compared to MA programs, and LPN training will tackle deeper issues in some areas. CNA vs CMA vs QMA: What’s the Difference? 1. Additionally, a medical assistant role is less demanding compared to a licensed practical nurse. Be aware, though, that MA programs require more time to cover classes on medical insurance billing, and the program bears more weight on laboratory procedures compared to an LPN. Medical Assistant vs LPN has become the most discussed or debate topic nowadays. In contrast, an LPNs daily tasks provide basic patient care. An administrative medical assistant gathers medical information for insurance companies, books appointments and answers phones. Sometimes you may also need to assist the doctors in performing certain procedures. Licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants both provide direct nursing care. Another advantage is that students are closer to earning an RN if that is the end goal of the student. This is over $10,000 higher than the average salary for medical assistants, which hovered around $29,370 in 2012. However, an LPN is much more heavily involved in planning and monitoring patient care, whereas a Medical Assistant does not typically have these same duties. Medical assistants and LPN's have different licensing and certification requirements for students to be aware of. Medical Assistants, while performing many nursing tasks, still must recognize that an LPN is an entirely different role- one in which the student needs learn and grow accustomed to. Generally, MAs have duties that tend to be clerical in nature, such as interviewing patients and recording their information. Your email address will not be published. Students can often choose from online programs, traditional in-person classroom programs or a combination of the two. - LPNs may be required to work in a doctor’s office or that sort of setting nursing... 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