Difference Between CNA and MA
CNA vs. MA
The healthcare industry has been confusing to the public, with so many professionals working under its belt. There are MDs, RNs, LPNs, NPs, Aides, TBAs, CNAs and MAs, among others. In this article, the disparity between the last two professionals (CNA and MA) will be made clearer.
Foremost, it is true that both CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) and MAs (Medical Assistants) have tasks that seem to be overlapping each other. This means that the two roles, to some extent, also share similar responsibilities. For one, MAs can do the basic tasks of health education, taking vital signs (temperature checks, BP checks, etc.), recording medical data, conducting in-house visits, especially when tasked by the doctor, and even instructing the patients on how they will take their medications properly. However, what separates them from CNAs, is that they cannot do bedside care, as opposed to Certified Nursing Assistants.
CNAs mostly interact with the patient in the presence of other nurses, like the Registered Nurse (RN) and the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). As stated, MAs usually mediate between the doctor and the patient.
One of the biggest differences between a CNA and an MA is that the latter cannot work inside nursing homes. They go to facilities like health care units that do not have any visible doctor who’s stationing within. As per law requirements, Medical Assistants really need to work in facilities where physicians are around to supervise their actions, and to direct their health care plans. Because of this, the MA’s work is usually seen to be confined within the physician’s clinic or office. On the contrary, since CNAs are under the supervision of either the LPN and or RN, they can work in more health care areas, even in the absence of the doctor.
In terms of employment freedom, CNAs obviously have the leverage over MAs. CNAs can easily pass, or get more certification, so as to improve their career path. They have more career options, and have the flexibility in occupying better healthcare roles.
1. CNAs can do patient bedside care, like assisting in personal hygiene tasks, while MAs cannot.
2. CNAs mediate between the patient and other higher ranked nurses, whereas MAs can only mediate or act as a liaison between the patient and the doctor.
3. CNAs have more career options, and have better employment prospects than MAs.
4. CNAs can work in facilities that do not have a stationing doctor, while MAs mostly work near the doctor’s hospital clinics.
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