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Are you interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare industry, but unsure which path to take? Two popular options to consider are becoming a Medical Administrative Assistant or a Medication Aide. While both roles are important in providing quality patient care, there are some key differences to consider. In this blog post, we will explore the responsibilities, education and training requirements, career outlook, and salary potential for each role, to help you make an informed decision.
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Medical Administrative Assistant: A Medical Administrative Assistant, also known as a Medical Secretary or Medical Office Assistant, is responsible for managing the administrative tasks in a healthcare setting. They often work in hospitals, clinics, or medical offices and play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the facility. Some of their main responsibilities include:
Medication Aide: A Medication Aide, also known as a Medication Technician or Certified Medication Aide, is responsible for assisting nurses and other healthcare professionals in administering medications to patients. They typically work in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes or assisted living centers. Some of their main responsibilities include:
Although both roles play a vital part in the healthcare industry, there are some key differences between a Medical Administrative Assistant and a Medication Aide. These differences include:
Medical Administrative Assistant Job Description:
Medical Administrative Assistants are responsible for managing the administrative tasks in a healthcare setting. Some common job duties may include:
Medication Aide Job Description:
Medication Aides are responsible for administering medications to patients under the supervision of nurses or other healthcare professionals. Some common job duties may include:
Medical Administrative Assistant Education and Training:
To become a Medical Administrative Assistant, you typically need to complete a postsecondary certificate or diploma program in medical office administration. These programs can usually be completed in less than a year and cover topics such as medical terminology, medical billing and coding, medical office procedures, and computer skills. Some programs also include an internship or practicum component to provide hands-on experience.
Medication Aide Education and Training:
To become a Medication Aide, you need to complete a state-approved medication aide training program. These programs are often offered by community colleges or vocational schools and can typically be completed in a few weeks to a few months. The training includes classroom instruction as well as hands-on practice in administering medications. After completing the training program, you must pass a certification exam to become a Certified Medication Aide.
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Medical Administrative Assistant Career Outlook:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 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 increasing demand for healthcare services and the need to maintain accurate patient records contribute to the positive job outlook for Medical Administrative Assistants. The median annual wage for Medical Secretaries was $36,580 in May 2020.
Medication Aide Career Outlook:
The employment of Nursing Assistants and Orderlies, which includes Medication Aides, is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The growing elderly population and the need for long-term care services contribute to the demand for Medication Aides. The median annual wage for Nursing Assistants was $30,830 in May 2020.
Choosing a career path in the healthcare industry is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Both Medical Administrative Assistants and Medication Aides play crucial roles in providing quality patient care, but they have different job responsibilities, work environments, and training requirements. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your interests, skills, and long-term career goals. We hope this blog post has provided you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. Good luck on your career journey!
Dreambound strategically offers its educational programs in diverse locations. To gain a thorough insight into the exciting opportunities within these two vocations, we encourage you to explore more detailed information by visiting:
Justine Tacmo is part of the Growth team at Dreambound. He assists the organization by updating critical information so students receive the most up-to-date information for their desired trade schools. Besides, he has a passion for writing and expresses it through poetry, covering themes of life, love, and mental health, which is also his advocacy.