When it comes to choosing a vocational training program, two popular options that students often consider are EKG (Electrocardiogram) technician and Medical Administrative Assistant. Both of these careers offer unique opportunities in the healthcare industry, but they have different job duties and require different levels of education and training. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast the roles of an EKG technician and a Medical Administrative Assistant to help you make an informed decision about which career path may be the right fit for you.

Introduction

The healthcare industry is rapidly growing, and there is a high demand for skilled professionals in various roles. EKG technicians and Medical Administrative Assistants play important roles in healthcare settings, but their job responsibilities differ significantly. Understanding the differences between these two careers can help you determine which path aligns better with your interests and goals.

What is an EKG and Medical Administrative Assistant?

EKG Technician: An EKG technician is a healthcare professional who specializes in performing electrocardiogram tests on patients. Electrocardiograms are used to measure the electrical activity of the heart and detect any abnormalities or irregularities. EKG technicians work under the supervision of doctors and are responsible for preparing patients for the test, attaching electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs, operating the EKG machine, and recording the results for further analysis.

Medical Administrative Assistant: A Medical Administrative Assistant, also known as a Medical Secretary or Medical Office Assistant, plays a vital role in healthcare facilities by providing administrative support to medical staff and ensuring the smooth operation of the office. They are responsible for tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, billing and coding, managing patient inquiries, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.

Difference between an EKG and Medical Administrative Assistant

While both EKG technicians and Medical Administrative Assistants work in healthcare settings, their job duties and responsibilities differ significantly. Here are some key differences between the two roles:

Job Duties:

• EKG Technician:

  • Perform electrocardiogram tests on patients
  • Prepare patients for the test
  • Attach electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs
  • Operate the EKG machine
  • Record and document the results for analysis

• Medical Administrative Assistant:

  • Schedule appointments for patients and medical staff
  • Maintain patient records and update electronic health records
  • Handle billing and coding tasks
  • Answer phone calls and manage patient inquiries
  • Coordinate with other healthcare professionals and departments

Direct Patient Interaction:

• EKG Technician:

  • EKG technicians have direct contact with patients as they prepare them for the test and attach electrodes to their bodies. However, their interaction with patients is limited compared to other healthcare professionals.

• Medical Administrative Assistant:

  • Medical Administrative Assistants have frequent patient interaction as they schedule appointments, handle inquiries, and assist patients with administrative tasks. They often serve as the first point of contact for patients and play a crucial role in providing a positive patient experience.

Technical Skills vs Administrative Skills:

• EKG Technician:

  • EKG technicians require technical skills to operate the EKG machine, attach electrodes accurately, and interpret the results. They need a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology, as well as the ability to follow protocols and procedures.

• Medical Administrative Assistant:

  • Medical Administrative Assistants require strong administrative skills, including proficiency in office software, excellent communication skills, and the ability to multitask. They need to be organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing various administrative tasks simultaneously.

EKG vs Medical Administrative Assistant: Job Description

EKG Technician Job Description: EKG technicians are responsible for performing electrocardiogram tests on patients to measure the electrical activity of their hearts. They work in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers under the supervision of doctors and other healthcare professionals. In addition to performing EKG tests, their job duties may include:

• Preparing patients for the test
• Explaining the procedure to patients
• Attaching electrodes to the patient's chest, arms, and legs
• Operating the EKG machine and ensuring accurate readings
• Recording and documenting the results for further analysis
• Maintaining and cleaning the EKG equipment
• Assisting with stress tests or other cardiac diagnostic procedures

Medical Administrative Assistant Job Description: Medical Administrative Assistants provide administrative support to medical staff and ensure the smooth operation of healthcare facilities. They work in hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and other healthcare settings. Their job duties may include:

• Scheduling appointments for patients and medical staff
• Managing patient records and updating electronic health records
• Billing and coding tasks, including insurance claims processing
• Answering phone calls and managing patient inquiries
• Coordinating with other healthcare professionals and departments
• Greeting and checking in patients
• Handling administrative tasks such as filing, faxing, and data entry

EKG vs Medical Administrative Assistant: Education and Training

EKG Technician Education and Training: To become an EKG technician, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. Many vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes offer EKG technician training programs that can be completed in a relatively short time, usually ranging from 4 to 12 months. These programs provide hands-on training in performing EKG tests, operating EKG equipment, and interpreting the results. Some states may also require EKG technicians to be certified, which can be obtained through professional organizations such as the American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Medical Administrative Assistant Education and Training: To become a Medical Administrative Assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. Many vocational schools, community colleges, and online programs offer Medical Administrative Assistant training programs that can be completed in 6 to 12 months. These programs cover topics such as medical terminology, office management, medical billing and coding, electronic health records, and communication skills. While certification is not always required, it can enhance job prospects. Certifications such as Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) or Certified Electronic Health Records Specialist (CEHRS) can be obtained through organizations like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).

EKG vs Medical Administrative Assistant: Career Outlook and Salary

EKG Technician Career Outlook and Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of cardiovascular technologists and technicians, including EKG technicians, is projected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing demand for diagnostic imaging and healthcare services contributes to the job growth in this field. The median annual wage for cardiovascular technologists and technicians was $59,410 as of May 2020, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $30,920, and the highest 10 percent earning more than $94,370.

Medical Administrative Assistant Career Outlook and Salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants is projected to grow 10 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The increasing demand for healthcare services, especially from an aging population, contributes to the job growth in this field. The median annual wage for Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants was $39,850 as of May 2020, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $27,020, and the highest 10 percent earning more than $63,230.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career path is an important decision that should be based on your interests, skills, and goals. Both EKG technician and Medical Administrative Assistant are rewarding careers in the healthcare industry, but they require different skill sets and offer different job responsibilities. Consider your strengths, preferences, and long-term goals when deciding which path to pursue. Remember to research and explore each career in more detail to gain a comprehensive understanding of the day-to-day tasks, educational requirements, and potential job prospects.

Discover the widespread reach of Dreambound's programs in various locations. Delve into the content of these blogs to gain a thorough understanding of the intricacies surrounding the two vocations, covering everything from requirements to valuable tips on starting your endeavor:

• EKG in Georgia
• Medical Administrative Assistant in Georgia
• EKG classes near you