Phlebotomist or Medical Assistant Career Choice in Atlanta

Medical Assistant vs. Phlebotomist: Which Is a Better Career Choice

In Atlanta, you have many healthcare-related career choices to choose from, including medical assisting and phlebotomy. Which career path should you choose? Both medical assistants and phlebotomists are a critical part of patient care. So, rest assured that whatever path you choose will be rewarding. Let’s dive into some details.

Medical Assistant: Responsibilities, Job Outlook & Education

Medical assistants support physicians and other healthcare professionals by providing hands-on patient care. For example, you might prep patients for exams, perform injections, chart vital signs or support patients during their hospital stays.

As a medical assistant, you have the opportunity to work in a wide range of medical facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices and long-term care facilities.

Job Outlook

Medical assistants are in high demand across the country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the medical assistant career demand will grow by 19% between now and 2029, which is much faster than average. This means many medical assistant positions are open, including many in Atlanta.

Those same statistics show medical assistants making an average of $35,850 per year or $17.23 per hour.

Education Requirements

To become a medical assistant, you’ll need to obtain a Medical Assistant Certificate. Our program takes approximately 36 weeks to complete. Once finished, you’ll need to obtain certification through the RMA, CMA or NCCT.

Phlebotomist: Responsibilities, Job Outlook & Education

Phlebotomists (also known as phlebotomy technicians) draw blood and prepare bodily fluids for diagnostic testing. They perform venipunctures, monitor blood glucose levels, record and report testing results to physicians and maintain testing equipment.

Phlebotomists work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, specialty care centers and long-term care facilities. Anywhere a patient is, a phlebotomist is often required.

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, phlebotomy careers are expected to grow by 17% between now and 2029, which is much faster than average. This high-demand career is also highly sought after in Atlanta. Phlebotomists currently make an average of $36,320 per year or $17.46 per hour.

Education Requirements

To become a phlebotomist, you’ll need to obtain a Phlebotomy Technician Certificate from an accredited college or university such as Cambridge. The program takes 11 weeks to complete. Once finished, you’ll need to take and pass the NHA exam for employment.

Still Need Help Deciding Which Atlanta Career Is Best? Call Us Today!

In terms of salary and benefits, you can expect about the same no matter which path you choose. It all comes down to which part of patient care you wish to be a part of. Need help deciding? Call Cambridge at 877-206-4279 or send us a message.

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