LPN vs. Medical Assistant: 5 Key Differences
BestColleges.com is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.
Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:
- Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
- Provide specific, corrective feedback.
- Identify critical information that writers may have missed.
Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for BestColleges.com as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.
Portions of the following article were drafted using an in-house natural language generation platform. The article was then reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by multiple members of our editorial team prior to publishing.
Want to work directly with patients without going to med school? Consider becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a medical assistant. While both are important roles in healthcare, the two jobs differ in terms of responsibilities, education requirements, and opportunities for advancement.
In this article, we explore the key differences between LPNs and medical assistants and offer advice on how to make the best choice for you.
LPN vs. Medical Assistant Overview
Deciding between becoming an LPN vs. medical assistant means understanding how the two differ — and how they’re alike.
In general, LPNs focus on direct patient care, while medical assistants perform a mix of clinical and administrative tasks.
| Comparison | Licensed Practical Nurses | Medical Assistants |
|---|---|---|
| Scope and Responsibilities | Direct patient care | Clinical and administrative tasks |
| Work Environment | Nursing and residential care facilities, hospitals, home healthcare services | Doctor offices, hospitals, outpatient care centers |
| Education Requirements | Diploma or certificate | Diploma, certificate, or associate degree |
| Licensure Requirements | Must pass NCLEX-PN exam | Varies depending on state |
| Median Annual Salary (May 2023) | $59,730 | $42,000 |
| Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) | 5% | 14% |
Featured Online Medical Assisting Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
LPN vs. Medical Assistant: Key Differences
Here’s an in-depth look at some of the biggest differences between medical assistants and LPNs.
- 1
Responsibilities
Medical assistants and LPNs have very different duties. While medical assistants mainly perform a mix of clinical and administrative tasks, LPNs focus primarily on caring for patients.
Medical assistants record patient histories, handle billing, and schedule appointments. They may also perform small clinical tasks like preparing patients for examinations and taking vital signs.
LPNs, on the other hand, have a much wider scope of responsibility. These healthcare professionals monitor patient health, administer medications, change bandages, and help patients with everyday tasks like bathing and dressing.
LPNs often work under the supervision of registered nurses or doctors.
- 2
Education Requirements
To become either an LPN or a medical assistant, you need to earn at least a postsecondary certificate or diploma, usually from an accredited or state-approved program.
LPN and medical assisting certificate programs take around 9-12 months.
Many medical assistants earn an associate degree, which lasts 1-2 years and can provide more avenues for career growth or continuing education.
Trade schools, community colleges, and employers may offer LPN training programs that meet state educational requirements. These programs provide extensive clinical training in medical settings, helping to build essential nursing skills.
- 3
Salary
Overall, LPNs tend to earn more money than medical assistants.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical assistants earn a median salary of $42,000, while LPNs earn a median salary of $59,730 as of May 2023.
Note, however, that these figures can vary greatly depending on your location, experience, and work setting. For example, due to California’s high cost of living, LPNs in the Golden State earn an average annual salary of $76,580 — over $15,000 more than the national median for LPNs.
- 4
Licensure and Certification
While all LPNs must meet state licensure requirements, requirements for medical assistants vary depending on the state.
To become an LPN, you have to complete an accredited LPN training program and then pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Some states or employers may also require a background check or basic skills test before you begin your studies or job.
LPNs can also seek certifications to advance their careers and specialize in certain areas.
As for medical assistants, while certifications aren’t typically required, they may help with career advancement. Here are some examples of medical assistant certifications you could get:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
Each of these certifications requires the completion of an accredited medical assisting program and the successful passing of an exam. In certain states, such as Washington, medical assistants are required to be both licensed and certified.
- 5
Career Advancement
Both LPNs and medical assistants have several opportunities for career advancement, with some overlap.
One common path for LPNs is to become a registered nurse, or RN. LPNs can enroll in an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program to learn advanced patient care tasks and expand their scope of practice.
LPNs can also transition to other healthcare roles such as case manager, nutritionist, and clinical social worker.
Medical assistants can advance into related healthcare roles like RN, physician assistant, and health information technologist.
Alternatively, medical assistants may want to pursue a supervisory position as a healthcare manager, billing supervisor, or practice manager.
LPN vs. Medical Assistant: Which Is Right for You?
Both medical assisting and practical nursing can be rewarding careers. Which path you should choose ultimately depends on your interests, skills, and long-term goals.
Consider Becoming a Medical Assistant if You…
- Want a role that combines clinical and administrative tasks
- Prefer working regular office hours
- Can live comfortably on a below-average salary
- Want to eventually advance into a managerial role
Consider Becoming an LPN if You…
- Are passionate about providing direct patient care
- Feel prepared to work a demanding schedule, including nights and weekends
- Want to earn an above-average salary
- Hope to advance your career by becoming an RN or other medical professional
Frequently Asked Questions About LPN vs. Medical Assistant Roles
Becoming an LPN typically requires more training — including passing the NCLEX-PN exam — than becoming a medical assistant. LPNs have a much broader scope of practice and must meet state licensure requirements.
Explore More College Resources
How to Become a Vocational Nurse
Vocational nursing can be a fulfilling career with opportunities to advance. Learn how you can become a vocational nurse.
Updated 2024-01-12 16:50:54
How Long Is Nursing School?
Nursing school length depends on which nursing track you choose. Keep reading to learn your different nursing program options and commonly asked questions.
Updated 2023-08-24 15:50:44
What’s the Difference Between Medical Assistants and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)?
Medical assistants and certified nursing assistants are rewarding jobs in the healthcare industry. Find out how you can get started in these career paths.
Updated 2024-09-03 22:40:22