When it comes to healthcare careers, there are many different paths you can take. Two popular options are becoming a CPR-BLS (Basic Life Support) provider or pursuing a career as a Medical Assistant. While both of these careers involve working in the healthcare field, there are some key differences between them. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between a CPR-BLS provider and a Medical Assistant, including their job descriptions, education and training requirements, and career outlooks.

Introduction

Before we dive into the details, let's take a moment to understand what a CPR-BLS provider and a Medical Assistant are.

What is CPR-BLS?

CPR-BLS stands for Basic Life Support, and it refers to the set of skills and techniques used to provide immediate care to a person experiencing a life-threatening emergency. CPR-BLS providers are trained to respond to situations such as cardiac arrest, choking, and drowning. They are responsible for assessing the patient's condition, initiating CPR, and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) if necessary. CPR-BLS providers are typically found in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and ambulances.

What is a Medical Assistant?

A Medical Assistant, on the other hand, is a healthcare professional who performs a variety of administrative and clinical tasks to support the work of physicians and other healthcare professionals. Medical Assistants work in a wide range of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and doctors' offices. Their responsibilities may include taking patient histories, preparing patients for examinations, assisting with minor procedures, and performing basic laboratory tests.

Difference between CPR-BLS and Medical Assistant

Now that we have a basic understanding of what CPR-BLS and Medical Assistants do, let's explore the key differences between these two healthcare careers.

• Focus: The main difference between a CPR-BLS provider and a Medical Assistant is their primary focus. CPR-BLS providers are trained to respond to life-threatening emergencies and provide immediate care to save lives. Medical Assistants, on the other hand, have a broader scope of practice and are involved in various aspects of patient care.

• Skills and Training: CPR-BLS training typically takes a few hours to complete and focuses on learning basic life-saving techniques such as CPR and using an AED. Medical Assistant training, on the other hand, is more comprehensive and can take anywhere from several months to two years to complete. Medical Assistants receive training in both administrative and clinical tasks, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medication administration, and patient care.

• Certification: While certification is not always required for Medical Assistants, many choose to become certified to demonstrate their competence and enhance their job prospects. There are several organizations that offer certification for Medical Assistants, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). CPR-BLS providers, on the other hand, are required to be certified by organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) or the Red Cross.

CPR-BLS vs Medical Assistant: Job Description

Now let's take a closer look at the job descriptions of CPR-BLS providers and Medical Assistants.

CPR-BLS Provider Job Description

• Assessing the patient's condition and providing immediate care in life-threatening emergencies
• Performing CPR and using an AED if necessary
• Assisting other healthcare professionals in emergency situations
• Documenting and reporting patient information
• Maintaining equipment and supplies used in CPR-BLS procedures

Medical Assistant Job Description

• Taking patient histories and recording vital signs
• Assisting with patient examinations and minor procedures
• Administering medications and vaccines under the supervision of a healthcare professional
• Performing basic laboratory tests and collecting specimens
• Scheduling appointments and managing patient records

CPR-BLS vs Medical Assistant: Education and Training

The education and training requirements for CPR-BLS providers and Medical Assistants differ significantly.

CPR-BLS Education and Training

• CPR-BLS training programs are typically short and can be completed in a matter of hours. These programs cover basic life-saving techniques such as CPR, using an AED, and providing first aid.
• CPR-BLS certification is usually obtained through organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA) or the Red Cross. Certification requires passing a written exam and demonstrating competency in performing CPR and using an AED.

Medical Assistant Education and Training

• Medical Assistants typically complete a certificate or diploma program, which can take anywhere from several months to two years to complete. These programs cover a wide range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and patient care.
• Some Medical Assistants choose to pursue an associate's degree in Medical Assisting, which usually takes two years to complete and offers a more comprehensive education.
• In addition to completing a formal education program, Medical Assistants may also choose to become certified. Certification can be obtained through organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Certification typically requires passing an exam and meeting certain education and experience requirements.

CPR-BLS vs Medical Assistant: Career Outlook and Salary

When considering a career in either CPR-BLS or Medical Assisting, it's important to think about the career outlook and potential salary.

CPR-BLS Career Outlook and Salary

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of EMTs and Paramedics (which includes CPR-BLS providers) is projected to grow 6 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for EMTs and Paramedics was $35,400 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Medical Assistant Career Outlook and Salary

• The BLS projects that the employment of Medical Assistants will grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
• The median annual wage for Medical Assistants was $35,850 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

Both CPR-BLS providers and Medical Assistants play important roles in the healthcare field. While CPR-BLS providers focus on providing immediate care in life-threatening emergencies, Medical Assistants have a broader scope of practice and are involved in various aspects of patient care. Ultimately, the choice between a career as a CPR-BLS provider or a Medical Assistant depends on your interests, strengths, and career goals. It's important to carefully consider the differences between these two careers and choose the path that aligns with your personal and professional aspirations.

Dive into the expansive reach of Dreambound's programs across various locations. For a detailed exploration of the two vocations, visit the suggested blogs to uncover specific requirements and gain valuable perspectives on how to commence your journey effectively.

• CPR-BLS in Montana
• Medical Assistant in Montana
• CPR-BLS classes near you
• Medical Assistant classes near you