What's the difference between being a Clinical Medical Assistant and a Physician assistant?
Asked by PATRICK B
The Anthem Institute in Jersey City says I'll be able to become a "Clinical Medical Assistant" but I want to become a "Physician Assistant"? What's the difference?

Best Answer:
A medical assistant is an entry-level job for the most part in health care. Similar in function to an LPN but with more knowledge of medical office. It's usually about a 9-12 month program. A Physician's Assistant requires a college degree, minimum of a Bachelor's degree but many are Master's degree educated. You function as a primary care provider like a doctor, but you work in collaboration with doctors who still oversee your work and you are not completely 100% independently functioning. You can prescribe medications, etc. Two completely different levels of education, so you better be sure about what you're getting yourself into.
RN
Answered by Jill

A clinical medical assistant is a MA--a very basic, unlicensed, entry level assistant. They do front & back office work & assist the docs, NPs, PAs, etc. Their training is about 9 months. A physician assistant is a certified, licensed, masters level mid-level provider. Their training is about 2.5 years. You render treatment, diagnoses, order & interpret tests, order interventions, write Rx's etc. The Anthem Institute in not a PA program. Check the national web page AAPA.org for accredited programs.
Answered by Diane A