Medication Aide vs Phlebotomy
Key Points:
- Medication Aides help patients take their medicine, while Phlebotomists collect blood samples for testing.
- Medication Aides typically earn less than Phlebotomists.
- Both jobs are in demand, but Phlebotomist positions may be more abundant due to the growing need for medical testing.
- Medication Aide training is often available online or in-person, while Phlebotomy training is primarily in-person.
- Medication Aide training is generally less expensive and takes less time (around 100 hours) compared to Phlebotomy training (around 400-500 hours).
In the healthcare industry, there are many different roles and responsibilities. Medication Aides and Phlebotomists are two such roles that are often confused with each other. While both involve working in a healthcare setting and assisting patients, the specific duties and training required for each position are quite different.
Medication Aide vs Phlebotomy: Career Outlook and Salary
Medication Aide Career Outlook and Salary:
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 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 median annual wage for Nursing Assistants, Orderlies, and Attendants (which includes Medication Aides) was $29,660 in May 2020, according to the BLS.
Phlebotomy Career Outlook and Salary:
- According to the BLS, employment of Phlebotomists is projected to grow 17 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
- The median annual wage for Phlebotomists was $36,320 in May 2020, according to the BLS.
Final Thoughts
Both Medication Aides and Phlebotomists play important roles in the healthcare field, but they have different job duties, training requirements, and career outlooks. If you enjoy working directly with patients and have a keen attention to detail, a career as a Medication Aide may be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you have a strong interest in laboratory work and enjoy working with your hands, a career as a Phlebotomist may be a better fit. Consider your skills, interests, and long-term career goals when deciding which path to pursue.
Dreambound's programs extend across various locations. Visit these blogs for a thorough exploration of the two vocations, encompassing details on their requirements and insights on how to get started:
Alyssa Jane is part of the customer success team at Dreambound. She works with students, training providers, and employers, helping them have a smooth customer journey. She is also an ESL tutor and Licensed Psychometrician. She is fond of traveling, photography, and discovering new restaurants.