Which NCC Program is Right for YOU? Medical Assistant V.S. Medical Administrative Assistant

Are you considering a career in the medical field but don’t know which program to pursue? 

Look no further! Northwest Career College provides two distinct programs that have been tailored to fit the needs and interests of those interested in entering healthcare occupations: Medical Assistant and Medical Administrative Assistant.

In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about each program—including course requirements, job prospects, skills learned, and more—to help you decide which NCC Program is right for YOU!

Read on to learn more!

Overview of medical assistant and medical administrative assistant programs

Medical and administrative assistant programs are ideal for individuals interested in working in healthcare but who don’t want to become doctors or nurses. These programs offer comprehensive training that prepares students for entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings.

Medical assisting focuses on a hands-on approach, teaching students to perform clinical tasks such as taking vitals, administering injections, and recording medical histories. On the other hand, medical administrative assisting gives students a more administrative role and training in areas such as medical billing, coding, and scheduling appointments.

With a blend of classroom lectures and hands-on training, graduates of these programs are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the healthcare industry.

Compare and contrast the two roles

The fields of medicine and healthcare involve various roles and responsibilities, each crucial to the overall well-being of patients and operations.

Medical Assistants (MAs) and Medical Administrative Assistants (MAAs) are among these roles. While MAs primarily focus on supporting physicians in clinical tasks such as taking vital signs and administering medications, MAAs are responsible for managing the front office operations of medical facilities.

These include scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and coordinating communication between patients and healthcare providers. 

Although they share similar job titles, MAs and MAAs have distinct differences in their training, job duties, and work environments that set them apart.

Education requirements for each program

Medical and administrative assistant programs require a high school diploma or equivalent. However, each program also has additional educational requirements to meet before enrollment.

For medical assistant programs, students must have an up-to-date CPR certification and complete a course in anatomy and physiology. Upon completion of the program, graduates will receive a certificate of completion and may sit for the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) certification exam.

For medical administrative assistant programs, students must complete a course in basic accounting and have a working knowledge of computers and office software. 

Upon completion of the program, graduates will receive an Associate degree in an appropriate course and may sit for the National Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (NCMAA) certification exam.

Job duties of a medical assistant and medical administrative assistant

Medical and administrative assistants are essential healthcare professionals who play an integral role in the daily operations of medical facilities. Medical assistants typically work alongside physicians and other healthcare providers to perform various clinical tasks, such as taking vital signs, drawing blood, and assisting with minor surgical procedures.

On the other hand, medical administrative assistants focus on healthcare’s organizational and administrative aspects, such as scheduling appointments, checking patients in and out, and managing medical records. These roles may differ, but both require unique skills and expertise to ensure patients receive the highest quality of care.

Whether interacting with patients directly or managing back-office operations, these professionals are crucial in supporting the overall function of a healthcare facility.

Salary expectations for each profession

When considering a career in the medical field, it’s essential to have realistic expectations for your salary. This is especially true for those interested in 

becoming a Medical Assistant or a Medical Administrative Assistant. While both careers involve working in a healthcare setting and providing support to medical professionals, there are differences in salary expectations.

According to industry data, Medical Assistants earn an average of $34,800 per year, while Medical Administrative Assistants earn slightly more at $36,580 per year. It’s important to note that these are average salaries and can vary based on the individual’s location, experience, and qualifications.

Ultimately, it’s essential to do your research and consider your personal career goals when making decisions about salary expectations for your chosen profession.

Career opportunities available to graduates of each program

As a graduate of a Medical Assistant program, the opportunities for career advancement are plentiful. You can work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices. You will be providing direct patient care and support to healthcare providers.

On the other hand, a Medical Administrative Assistant degree will allow you to pursue a career in healthcare administration. You will manage medical records, schedule appointments, and handle insurance claims. Both careers offer unique paths within the healthcare industry, making it an exciting field to be a part of.

Ultimately, the decision between a Medical Assistant and a Medical Administrative Assistant program comes down to your personal career aspirations and where you see yourself thriving in healthcare.

Each profession also allows for ample opportunities to grow and advance within the field, depending upon individual skill level and ambition. Graduates of either program can look forward to attractively steady salary ranges with both professions having good job security.

Now that you have all the necessary information about both programs – which one are you best suited for? If this article has helped shed light on which program best matches your career needs, don’t hesitate to contact Northwest regarding our Medical Administrative Assistant Program today!

Start your career as a Medical Administrative Assistant with us!

Here at our medical assistant school, our student-centered philosophy means that you come first. 

We offer a flexible schedule so you can care for your family and have a balanced life in Las Vegas while advancing toward your new career. 

We pride ourselves on being the premier Medical Administrative Assistant school in Las Vegas, and our established, seasoned instructors offer online and on-campus night classes to accommodate your busy work and family schedule. 

Call us at (702) 403-1592 to speak to one of our admissions assistants about your new medical administrative assisting career.