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Medical Administrative Assistant vs Medical Transcriptionist

Medical Administrative Assistant vs Medical Transcriptionist

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Key Points:

  • Medical Administrative Assistants handle office tasks; Medical Transcriptionists convert audio recordings into written documents.
  • Medical Administrative Assistants typically earn more than Medical Transcriptionists, with higher average salaries.
  • Medical Administrative Assistant roles are more widely available.
  • Both jobs may require online or in-person training, but Medical Administrative Assistant programs are more common.
  • Medical Administrative Assistant training is generally less expensive and shorter than Medical Transcriptionist training.

In today's healthcare industry, medical administrative assistants and medical transcriptionists play vital roles in ensuring the efficient operation of medical offices and facilities. While both professions involve working in a medical setting and providing administrative support, there are distinct differences in the specific tasks and responsibilities associated with each role. Understanding these differences can help individuals determine which career path may be the best fit for their skills and interests.

Medical Administrative Assistant vs Medical Transcriptionist: Career Outlook and Salary

The career outlook for both medical administrative assistants and medical transcriptionists is positive, with job opportunities expected to grow in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical secretaries (which includes medical administrative assistants) is projected to grow 10 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for medical transcriptionists, however, is projected to decline 2 percent during the same time period, as advancements in voice recognition technology may reduce the need for manual transcription.

In terms of salary, the median annual wage for medical secretaries (including medical administrative assistants) was $36,580 in May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The median annual wage for medical transcriptionists was $34,770 in May 2020. It is important to note that salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the healthcare industry can be an exciting and rewarding decision. Both medical administrative assistants and medical transcriptionists play important roles in supporting healthcare professionals and ensuring the efficient operation of medical offices and facilities. While the specific tasks and responsibilities of these roles may differ, individuals interested in pursuing a career in either field can expect a positive job outlook and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare industry.

Dreambound's educational programs cater to a wide range of locations, ensuring accessibility for individuals eager to explore new horizons. Delve into a more comprehensive understanding of the possibilities within these two vocations by visiting:

Athena Kan
Written by
Athena Kan

Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.

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