Medical Assistant vs PALS
Key Points:
- Medical Assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks; PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) providers focus on emergency care for children.
- Medical Assistants typically earn less than PALS providers, who often have higher levels of specialized training.
- Medical Assistant jobs are more abundant, while PALS providers are in high demand in healthcare settings that serve children.
- Medical Assistants can train online or in-person, whereas PALS training is primarily in-person and hands-on.
- Medical Assistant training is generally less expensive and shorter than PALS certification process.
The healthcare industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, and it can be overwhelming to choose the right path for yourself. Medical assisting and PALS certification are two options that provide a gateway to working in healthcare. A medical assistant is a multi-skilled professional who assists healthcare providers in various clinical and administrative tasks. On the other hand, PALS stands for Pediatric Advanced Life Support, which is a specialized certification for healthcare professionals who work with pediatric patients in emergency situations.
Medical Assistant Education and Training
The education and training requirements for medical assistants can vary depending on the state and employer. Some medical assistants receive on-the-job training, while others complete a postsecondary education program. Here are some common paths to becoming a medical assistant:
- Certificate or diploma programs: These programs typically take around one year to complete and cover both clinical and administrative skills.
- Associate's degree programs: These programs take around two years to complete and provide a more comprehensive education in medical assisting.
While certification is not required to work as a medical assistant, many employers prefer to hire certified medical assistants. The most widely recognized certifications for medical assistants are the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credential offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT). To become certified, medical assistants must pass an examination after completing an accredited medical assisting program.
PALS Education and Training
To become PALS certified, healthcare professionals must complete a PALS course that is approved by the American Heart Association (AHA). The course includes both online and hands-on training and covers topics such as pediatric assessment, basic life support, and advanced life support interventions. The course typically takes one to two days to complete, depending on the provider.
It's important to note that PALS certification is available to healthcare professionals who already have a strong foundation in basic life support and have experience working with pediatric patients. Some of the healthcare professionals who may pursue PALS certification include:
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Paramedics
- Respiratory therapists
- Emergency medical technicians (EMTs)
Medical Assistant vs PALS: Career Outlook and Salary
Medical Assistant Career Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for healthcare services and the need for administrative support in medical facilities.
The median annual wage for medical assistants was $35,850 in May 2019, according to the BLS. The highest 10 percent earned more than $48,720, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,820. The wage can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
PALS Career Outlook and Salary
As PALS certification is an additional qualification rather than a standalone profession, the career outlook and salary for PALS certified professionals will vary depending on their primary profession. However, having PALS certification can enhance job prospects and open up opportunities in healthcare settings that specialize in pediatric care or emergency medicine.
According to PayScale, the average salary for healthcare professionals with PALS certification is around $68,000 per year. However, it's important to note that this figure can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific role of the professional.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a career path in the healthcare field requires careful consideration of your interests, skills, and long-term goals. Both medical assisting and obtaining a PALS certification can provide rewarding career opportunities in healthcare. While medical assistants have a broader scope of practice and work with patients of all ages, PALS certified professionals focus specifically on emergency care for pediatric patients. The education and training requirements, as well as the job responsibilities and salary potential, differ between the two roles. Ultimately, the right choice for you will depend on your interests, strengths, and career goals.
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Marce Arnejo is part of the Sales team at Dreambound. Her role involves seeking out schools and institutions to provide valuable opportunities for students seeking a career in the healthcare sector. Beyond her professional life, Marce is passionate about music and gaming. She finds joy in exploring various genres of music and using gaming to unwind and immerse herself in virtual worlds. Her diverse interests enrich her personal life and contribute to her work by bringing new ideas and creativity.
