In the field of healthcare, there are numerous career options available for individuals who are interested in working directly with patients. Two such options are becoming a chiropractic assistant or a phlebotomist. While both roles involve assisting healthcare professionals, they have distinct differences in terms of job responsibilities, education and training requirements, and career outlook. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities and differences between a chiropractic assistant and a phlebotomist, and provide an overview of the job descriptions, education and training, and career outlook for each profession.

What is a Chiropractic Assistant and Phlebotomy?

Chiropractic Assistant

A chiropractic assistant is a healthcare professional who works directly with chiropractors to provide administrative and clinical support. They assist chiropractors in performing various tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, billing and coding, and preparing treatment rooms. Chiropractic assistants also perform some clinical duties, such as taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, and assisting with therapies and treatments.

Phlebotomy

Phlebotomy is the practice of drawing blood from patients for diagnostic testing, transfusions, research, or donations. Phlebotomists are trained to collect blood samples using various techniques, such as venipuncture or fingerstick. They also ensure the proper labeling and handling of blood samples, and may be responsible for transporting them to the laboratory for analysis. Phlebotomists must adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent the spread of infections and ensure the comfort and well-being of the patient.

Difference between a Chiropractic Assistant and Phlebotomy

While both chiropractic assistants and phlebotomists work in the healthcare field, there are several key differences between the two professions:

Job Responsibilities

• Chiropractic Assistant: The primary responsibilities of a chiropractic assistant involve providing administrative and clinical support to chiropractors. They may perform tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and assisting with therapies and treatments.
• Phlebotomy: Phlebotomists specialize in drawing blood from patients for various purposes. Their main responsibility is to collect blood samples using proper techniques and ensure their safe transport and handling.

Work Setting

• Chiropractic Assistant: Chiropractic assistants typically work in chiropractic clinics or offices. They may also find employment in hospitals or other healthcare facilities that offer chiropractic services.
• Phlebotomy: Phlebotomists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories, blood banks, and research facilities. They may also provide mobile phlebotomy services, where they travel to patients' homes or other locations to collect blood samples.

Patient Interaction

• Chiropractic Assistant: Chiropractic assistants have direct and regular interaction with patients. They may assist with taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, and providing support during therapies and treatments.
• Phlebotomy: Phlebotomists also have direct interaction with patients, but it is typically limited to the duration of the blood draw. They must ensure that patients are comfortable and informed about the procedure, and address any concerns or questions they may have.

Equipment and Tools

• Chiropractic Assistant: Chiropractic assistants use a variety of equipment and tools, including computer software for scheduling and record-keeping, therapy devices, and diagnostic equipment such as blood pressure monitors.
• Phlebotomy: Phlebotomists work with specialized equipment and tools for blood collection, such as needles, syringes, lancets, and blood collection tubes. They must also follow strict protocols for infection control and safety.

Chiropractic Assistant vs Phlebotomy: Job Description

Chiropractic Assistant

• Provide administrative support to chiropractors, including scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and managing billing and coding.
• Assist with clinical tasks, such as taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, and preparing treatment rooms.
• Provide support during therapies and treatments, including applying therapies and assisting with patient positioning.
• Educate patients on chiropractic treatments and procedures, and answer any questions or concerns they may have.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the clinic or office, including sterilizing equipment and ensuring a safe environment for patients and staff.

Phlebotomy

• Collect blood samples from patients using various techniques, such as venipuncture or fingerstick.
• Ensure proper labeling and handling of blood samples, and transport them to the laboratory for analysis.
• Follow strict protocols for infection control and safety, including wearing personal protective equipment and properly disposing of used needles and supplies.
• Provide comfort and reassurance to patients during the blood draw, and address any concerns or questions they may have.
• Maintain accurate records of blood draws, including patient information and test orders.

Chiropractic Assistant vs Phlebotomy: Education and Training

Chiropractic Assistant

• The educational requirements for chiropractic assistants vary by state and employer. Some employers may prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, while others may require completion of a formal training program or certification.
• Formal training programs for chiropractic assistants are available through vocational schools, community colleges, and online institutions. These programs typically cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, office procedures, and clinical skills.
• Certification is available for chiropractic assistants through organizations such as the American Medical Technologists (AMT) and the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE). Certification may enhance job prospects and demonstrate competency in the field.

Phlebotomy

• To become a phlebotomist, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require completion of a formal phlebotomy training program or certification.
• Formal phlebotomy training programs are available through vocational schools, community colleges, and hospitals. These programs typically include classroom instruction and hands-on training in blood collection techniques, safety protocols, and specimen handling.
• Certification is available for phlebotomists through organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Certification may be required or preferred by some employers, and can demonstrate proficiency and adherence to industry standards.

Chiropractic Assistant vs Phlebotomy: Career Outlook and Salary

Chiropractic Assistant

• The career outlook for chiropractic assistants is expected to be favorable, with a projected growth rate of 11% from 2018 to 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for chiropractic services as a non-invasive alternative to traditional healthcare.
• The median annual wage for chiropractic assistants was $34,520 in May 2019, according to the BLS. The highest 10% earned more than $49,800, while the lowest 10% earned less than $23,700.

Phlebotomy

• The career outlook for phlebotomists is also promising, with a projected growth rate of 23% from 2018 to 2028, according to the BLS. This growth is attributed to the increasing need for diagnostic tests and procedures, as well as the aging population.
• The median annual wage for phlebotomists was $35,510 in May 2019, according to the BLS. The highest 10% earned more than $49,750, while the lowest 10% earned less than $26,350.

Final Thoughts

Both chiropractic assisting and phlebotomy are rewarding career options for individuals who are interested in healthcare and enjoy working directly with patients. While chiropractic assistants primarily provide administrative and clinical support to chiropractors, phlebotomists specialize in blood collection and handling. The educational requirements and career outlook for both professions are favorable, with opportunities for growth and advancement. Ultimately, the choice between becoming a chiropractic assistant or a phlebotomist depends on individual interests, skills, and career goals.

Dreambound's programs are accessible in various locations. To gather more information about these two vocations, check out:

• Chiropractic Assistant in Arkansas
• Phlebotomy in Arkansas
• Chiropractic Assistant classes near you
• Phlebotomy classes near you