What is the difference between a medical assistant and med tech?
Medical assistants (MAs) and medical technologists (MTs) are both important members of the healthcare team, but there are some key differences between the two professions.
Education and training
MAs typically have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a one- to two-year training program. MTs, on the other hand, must complete a four-year college degree in medical technology.
Scope of practice
MAs perform a variety of administrative and clinical tasks, including:
* Scheduling appointments
* Taking medical histories
* Measuring vital signs
* Administering medications
* Drawing blood
* Preparing patients for exams
* Assisting with procedures
MTs perform more complex laboratory tests, such as:
* Analyzing blood samples
* Identifying bacteria and other microorganisms
* Performing chemistry tests
* Conducting genetic tests
Salary
The median annual salary for MAs is $32,330, while the median annual salary for MTs is $56,150.
Job outlook
The job outlook for both MAs and MTs is expected to be good over the next few years. The demand for healthcare services is expected to grow as the population ages, and MAs and MTs will play a vital role in providing these services.
Which career is right for you?
If you are interested in a career in healthcare and you are looking for a job that offers a variety of tasks and allows you to work closely with patients, then a career as a medical assistant may be a good fit for you. If you are interested in a more specialized career that involves performing complex laboratory tests, then a career as a medical technologist may be a better option.