Healthcare occupations see about 1.9 million openings each year. The annual wage for all careers in this field is approximately $45,760.
Currently, some of the most popular and hot occupations include medical assisting and phlebotomy. But which is right for you and your goals?
While it might seem overwhelming to choose, these two roles are vastly different. Read this guide on medical assistant vs phlebotomy to help you choose today!
What Is a Medical Assistant?
A medical assistant helps doctors in medical offices and clinics. They might take your vital signs, bring you to the exam room, and check your height and weight. Medical assistants will ask about any health concerns and your symptoms.
While they work with doctors, they can’t give you medical advice. Assistants prepare and collect information for the doctor to review with the patient. Tasks can include clinical and administrative work.
Medical assistants:
- Educate patients
- Take blood
- Take vital signs
- Check patients in and out
- Document patient concerns
Administrative tasks could include:
- Answer phone calls
- File charts
- Schedule patients
- Coordinate referrals
- Prepare records
- Assist with billing
What Is Phlebotomy?
A phlebotomist will puncture a vein with a needle to introduce a fluid or withdraw blood. Phlebotomists collect blood to help doctors diagnose and treat various conditions. Another term for this is venipuncture.
Phlebotomists help with:
- Storing, securing, and labeling samples
- Sanitizing work stations
- Confirming patient identities
- Helping patients relax
- Verifying tests
Work Tasks
Phlebotomists obtain lab samples for testing purposes, while medical assistants work with patients and doctors. Medical assistants could perform injections, administer medications, and more.
Medical assistants tend to spend more time in patient care than phlebotomists. Phlebotomists will need to prepare lab samples after the patient leaves.
Similarities
Both positions work similar hours depending on the location. Long-term care facilities and hospitals will require holidays, evenings, and overnights. Doctor’s offices will work 8-4 or 9-5.
The pay is similar. The average phlebotomist makes about $33,371-$41,376.
Medical assistants make slightly less at about $35,850. Both positions offer medical benefits and insurance.
Training
Phlebotomists can receive their certification within one to two semesters. Then you sit for examinations after preparations. Medical assistants might need up to two years of schooling.
The Benefits of Being a Phlebotomist
Phlebotomists tend to have low stress since they understand their daily duties and have regular hours. You’ll have a regular schedule if you work in a doctor’s office.
The job outlook is promising, and has plenty of openings. You’ll be a part of helping doctors diagnose patients so they can treat them.
Understanding the Differences Between Medical Assistant vs Phlebotomy
After exploring this guide, you should understand the differences between medical assistant vs phlebotomy. Take your time deciding which career is best for your future and goals.
Are you ready to become a phlebotomist and want to be prepared for upcoming exams? We can help! Register for the exam today or view our options for preparation.
