Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs Massage Therapist
When considering a healthcare career, two popular options that stand out are becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant (CNA) or a Massage Therapist. This blog will help you explore the key differences between these professions, including their job descriptions, training requirements, career outlook, salary potential, and more. By the end, you'll be equipped with the information you need to decide which path is right for you.
Acute Care Nursing Assistant
Becoming a CNA requires completing a state-approved training program that typically lasts a few weeks to a few months. These programs include both classroom learning and hands-on clinical practice. Once you complete the training, you must pass a state competency exam to become certified. The cost and duration of CNA programs are generally lower compared to other healthcare education.
Massage Therapist
To become a licensed Massage Therapist, you must complete a massage therapy program from an accredited institution. These programs can range from several months to two years, depending on the depth of the program. Training includes learning various massage techniques, anatomy, physiology, ethics, and business practices. Some states also require passing a licensing exam to practice professionally.
Career Outlook and Salary Potential
Career Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 4% growth in job opportunities for Nursing Assistants from 2023 to 2033, driven by an aging population and the need for long-term care services. In contrast, Massage Therapy is expected to grow at a much higher rate of 18% over the same period. This growth is largely due to the increasing demand for alternative healthcare treatments and rising recognition of the benefits of massage therapy.
Salary Potential
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Acute Care Nursing Assistants: According to the BLS, the median annual wage for CNAs was $38,200 as of May 2023. Entry-level CNAs can earn less, while experienced CNAs in specialized settings may earn more.
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Massage Therapists: The median annual wage for Massage Therapists was $55,310 in May 2023. However, the highest-earning 10% can make upwards of $83,030, especially those running their private practice.
Final Thoughts: Which Career Is Right for You?
Both Acute Care Nursing Assistants and Massage Therapists offer fulfilling careers that make a positive impact on people's health. However, the right path for you depends on your career goals, desired work environment, and the level of training you’re willing to pursue.
- If you are looking for a shorter training program and enjoy working directly with patients in a healthcare setting, becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant may be a great fit.
- If you are passionate about alternative healthcare and enjoy creating a calming environment for clients, Massage Therapy may be the right choice, offering more flexibility in terms of job location and private practice opportunities.
Regardless of your choice, both professions are essential to healthcare and offer opportunities for growth and development.
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Harold Roldan is a Growth team member at Dreambound. With a background in IT, he works with data and automation to improve team efficiency and workflows. He spends his free time playing musical instruments or studying data, computers, and technology.
