Key Points:

• The salary of an ACLS provider ranges from $65,000-$120,000 annually, while a chiropractic assistant's salary ranges from $35,000-$52,000.
• ACLS certification takes between 6-12 months, while chiropractic assistant training runs from 3-6 months.
• ACLS providers are in high demand in healthcare settings, while Chiropractic Assistants are primarily needed in chiropractic clinics.
• ACLS training is typically done in person, whereas Chiropractic Assistant training can be completed online or in person.
• ACLS jobs are available in hospitals, emergency rooms, and urgent care centers, while chiropractic assistant positions are in private practices and wellness centers.
• Both careers show strong growth potential through 2032.

The healthcare industry continues to evolve rapidly, offering diverse career paths for professionals at all levels. Two particularly interesting roles that often draw comparison are ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) providers and Chiropractic Assistants. While both contribute significantly to patient care, they serve distinctly different purposes in the healthcare ecosystem.

Introduction

Before diving into the specifics, let's take a moment to understand what ACLS and Chiropractic Assistant roles entail.

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification is a specialized emergency medical training program required for healthcare professionals who respond to cardiac emergencies. This advanced certification builds upon Basic Life Support (BLS) skills and prepares providers to lead cardiac emergency response teams.

On the other hand, a Chiropractic Assistant (CA) plays a vital role in chiropractic offices, combining clinical expertise with administrative skills to support both chiropractors and patients. This in-demand healthcare position offers a pathway into the growing field of alternative medicine with opportunities for career advancement.

Difference between ACLS and Chiropractic Assistant

While both ACLS and Chiropractic Assistant roles are in the healthcare field, they have distinct differences. Here are some key differentiating factors:

• Starting salary: ACLS providers typically earn more than chiropractic assistants. The average annual salary of an ACLS provider starts at around $65,000, while a chiropractic assistant starts at around $35,000.
• Training period: ACLS providers usually take longer to complete training than chiropractic assistants. ACLS providers take 6 months to a year of training, while chiropractic assistants only take about 3-6 months.
• Training cost: The cost of training for ACLS providers is around $400-$600, while it costs $2,800-$5,700 to train as a chiropractic assistant.
• Job growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 18% growth in career opportunities for ACLS providers, while a 15% growth in medical assistant careers (which includes chiropractic assistants).

ACLS vs Chiropractic Assistant: Job Duties

Let's take a closer look at the job duties and responsibilities of ACLS providers and Chiropractic Assistants:

ACLS Providers

• Recognize and respond to cardiac emergencies, such as cardiac arrest, stroke, and acute coronary syndromes.
• Perform CPR, and defibrillation, and administer medications as needed.
• Use advanced medical equipment to monitor patients and provide appropriate interventions.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated and effective patient care.

Chiropractic Assistants

• Schedule appointments and manage patient records.
• Assist chiropractors during treatments by preparing patients, taking vital signs, and providing support.
• Educate patients on proper exercise techniques, lifestyle choices, and post-treatment care.
• Handle administrative tasks, such as billing, insurance claims, and maintaining inventory.

ACLS vs Chiropractic Assistant: Education and Training

The educational requirements for ACLS providers and Chiropractic Assistants differ significantly:

ACLS Providers

• ACLS training is typically offered to healthcare professionals who already have a background in medicine or nursing.
• To become an ACLS provider, individuals must complete a certification course, which includes both online and hands-on training.
• The course covers topics such as cardiac arrest algorithms, pharmacology, and the use of advanced cardiac life support equipment.

Chiropractic Assistants

• Chiropractic Assistants usually need a high school diploma or equivalent to enter the field.
• Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a formal training program or have relevant experience.
• Chiropractic Assistant training programs are available at vocational schools and community colleges, and they typically cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, chiropractic principles, and office administration.

How to Become an ACLS Provider vs Chiropractic Assistant

ACLS Provider

1. Meet the requirements

• You must be 18 years or older.
• You must have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Background in healthcare is a requirement.
• You must have basic computer literacy.
• You should be physically capable of CPR.

2. Complete healthcare training

Depending on the kind of training program you will pursue, it may take between 12-48 months for you to become an ALCS provider. You can obtain any of the following:

• Paramedic certification
• Registered Nurse (RN) degree
• Medical Doctor (MD) degree
• Physician Assistant (PA) degree

3. Gain Basic Life Support (BLS) certification (1-2 days)

• Find an AHA-approved BLS course.
• Complete your online coursework.
• Attend in-person skills sessions.
• Pass written exam (minimum 84%).
• Complete practical assessment.
• Receive your BLS certification card.

4. Acquire clinical experience (6-12 months)

• You can work in a healthcare setting.
• Gaining patient care experience is essential.
• Learning basic emergency response is a must-do.
• Practice your team coordination.
• Understand medical terminologies and remember them as much as you can.

5. Complete ACLS course (2-3 days) The course components include:

• Pre-course self-assessment;
• Online coursework;
• Classroom sessions;
• Hands-on practice, and
• Simulation scenarios.

6. Pass ACLS certification (1 day) Here are the tips for you to pass your ACLS certification:

• Complete the written examination.
• Pass the practical skills assessment.
• Demonstrate team leadership.
• Show proficiency in rhythm interpretation, medication administration, emergency response, and team coordination.

7. Maintain certification

• Remember to renew your certification every 2 years.
• Level up your career by completing continuing education.
• Do your best to stay updated on the most recent guidelines.
• Always practice your acquired skills.
• Documenting all your certifications may help.

Chiropractic Assistant

1. Complete basic education (0-3 months)

• You must have a high school diploma or GED
• Having basic computer skills is an advantage.
• Good communication abilities are important.
• Physical stamina.
• Customer service experience is a plus.

2. Find a training program

These steps are essential to get started and succeed with your training:

• Research for accredited programs.
• Completing the application process.
• Secure financial aid if needed or if you can qualify.

3. Complete the required coursework

Attending the required number of hours for classroom instructions is a must. The training curriculum for chiropractic assistants are:

• Medical terminology
• Anatomy basic
• Office procedures
• Insurance billing
• Patient care
• Clinical techniques

4. Gain clinical skills (2-3 months)

Completing your clinical practicum is very important. In this part, you will learn about:

• Patient positioning
• Treatment assistance
• Therapeutic modalities
• Safety protocols
• Emergency procedures
• Equipment operation

5. Administrative training (1-2 months) You'll learn the administrative side of things which involves:

• Scheduling systems
• Electronic health records
• Insurance processing
• Inventory management
• Patient communication
• Documentation procedures

6. Obtain certification (1-2 months) The requirements vary per state, but you will typically need to do the following:

• Check local regulations to get up-to-date information on the certification or licensing policies.
• Complete the required hours of training.
• Pass the certification exam.
• Submit documentation.
• Pay licensing fees.

**7. Continuing education Stay ahead of the competition and remember to do these things:

• Compile and submit the annual requirements.
• Take advantage of specialty certifications.
• Obtain advanced training.
• Think of professional development.
• Keep an eye out for skills updates.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career path is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Both ACLS and Chiropractic Assistant roles offer unique opportunities to make a difference in people's lives. While ACLS focuses on emergency cardiovascular care, Chiropractic Assistants support chiropractors in patient care and administrative tasks. The education and training requirements differ, with ACLS training typically targeting healthcare professionals and Chiropractic Assistant programs open to high school graduates. Ultimately, the decision between ACLS and Chiropractic Assistant will depend on an individual's interests, skills, and career goals.

Dreambound has strategically placed its educational programs in various locations, making it easy for aspiring individuals to access valuable opportunities. For a thorough insight into the dynamic realms of these two vocations, we encourage you to delve into more detailed information by visiting:

• ACLS in Rhode Island
• Chiropractic Assistant in Rhode Island
• ACLS classes near you
• Chiropractic Assistant classes near you