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Trying to choose between Medical Assisting (CMA) and Nursing (LPN)?
1. What is the difference between a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?

• A CMA works in a Physician's office, a clinic, occupational setting, lab facility
• An LPN does work in a hospital, a nursing home, home care setting, a clinic, occupational setting, a Physician's office, private-duty care

• Physician's Office - $9.00-$12.00/hr
• Occupational - $9.00-$12.00/hr

• Hospital - $11.00-$15.00/hr
• Occupational - $10.00-$14.00/hr
• Nursing Home - $15.00/hr
• Physician's Office - $11.00-$15.00/hr

• A Technical Certificate in MEA takes 12 months or 3 semesters.
• An Associate's Degree in MEA takes 4 semesters
• A degree in LPN takes 12 months or 3 semesters

• The job outlook/market is very good for both professions

• Medical Assisting classes are assigned based on the results of the assessment test in reading and math or SAT results. The Medical Assisting program is open enrollment meaning there is not an entrance exam.
• A student must take the PSB entrance exam and be accepted into the Nursing program based on the exam results.

• Medical Terminology, Pharmacology, Disease Conditions, or any General Education courses common to both programs.

• Yes, it is the same course of study for both degrees.

• A CMA learns the skills to run an office administratively in areas such as in billing, computer operations, and transcription. A CMA also learns medical procedures such as medication administration, EKG testing, care of injuries and disease, and lab techniques and testing.
• A LPN learns nursing related skills used in various medical settings in areas such as medication administration, catheterization, tracheotomy care, bedside patient care, and other system specific skills.

• Most CMA positions are day or evening hours. The majority are day positions with no weekends and no holidays.
• LPN positions vary by facility and the position. Most positions are on all three shifts and it is up to the individual as to when they want to work. Many nursing positions do require some work on the weekends and on holidays.