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May 29, 2024Medical Assistant vs. EMT: Education, Salary & Duties
When considering a healthcare career, both medical assistants and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) offer unique and vital roles within the medical field. These professions differ significantly in their educational requirements, salary expectations, and day-to-day duties. Understanding these differences can help you choose the path that best aligns with your career goals and personal interests.
What is the difference between a medical assistant and an EMT?
The first step towards a career as a medical assistant is to complete your high school education or obtain a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. This foundational step is essential for entry into accredited training programs.
Both medical assistant´s roles and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) roles are important in the healthcare system, yet they operate in very different contexts with distinct responsibilities. Understanding the differences in education, skills, and work environments is essential for those considering a career in either field.
Medical Assistant | EMT | |
Education | Typically requires a postsecondary certificate or diploma from a vocational school or community college. Some may choose to obtain an associate's degree. | Requires completion of a postsecondary educational program in emergency medical technology, which may last from a few months to about 2 years. State certification is also necessary. |
Salary | The average medical assistant salary extends from $9.70 to $20.48 per hour. | Salaries for entry-level EMTs start at $35,100 per year, while experienced EMTs can earn up to $40,820 annually. |
Skills | Clinical skills (e.g., taking vital signs), administrative skills (e.g., scheduling appointments), patient interaction, basic laboratory tasks. | Emergency care skills, stress management, quick decision-making, physical stamina, and strong communication skills. |
Work environment | Often work in settings such as physicians’ offices, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. The environment is typically structured with a regular schedule. | Primarily work in ambulances, emergency rooms, and sometimes in fire stations. They are required to work in shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays, often in stressful and high-pressure conditions. |
Main duties of a medical assistant and an EMT
Medical Assistants and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) play vital roles in the healthcare system, though their responsibilities and environments differ significantly. Here's a brief introduction to the duties of each:
Medical Assistant Duties
Measuring vital signs
Taking electrocardiograms
Wound care
Starting IVs
EMT duties
Responding to 911 calls
Performing CPR and defibrillation
Assisting in childbirth
Administering oxygen
How to become a medical assistant
1. Earn your high school diploma or GED
Medical assistants play a crucial role in the functioning of healthcare facilities, supporting both clinical and administrative operations. This career not only offers the chance to work closely with patients and healthcare providers but also provides a stable job outlook. For detailed guidance, you can follow the steps outlined below on how to become a medical assistant.
2. Enroll in an accredited medical assistant program
Attending an accredited medical assistant program is crucial as it ensures the education you receive meets industry standards. These programs offer comprehensive training, including both classroom education and hands-on experience in medical procedures and office administration.
3. Get certified (Optional, but highly recommended)
While certification is not always mandatory, obtaining it can greatly enhance your job prospects and credibility. Certifications such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) are recognized across the industry.
4. Gain experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable in the medical field. Many training programs include externships or practical components that allow you to work in a healthcare setting. This experience is crucial for building skills and increasing employability.
Job growth opportunities for medical assistants and EMTs
- Medical Assistants: Job opportunities for medical assistants are expected to increase by 16% through 2031, which is faster than the national average. You can expand this percentage by exploring alternative jobs for medical assistants.
- EMTs: Job opportunities for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are also expected to increase, with a projected growth of 7% through 2031, which is faster than the national average.
Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 14 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
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