Should I Be a Medical Assistant or a Certified Nurse Aide if I Think I Want to Be a Doctor?

Understanding Your Path to Becoming a Physician

Becoming a doctor is a challenging and long-term career path that requires focused preparation early on. High school is not just a time to explore various interests but also a crucial period to build a solid academic foundation. If you are serious about becoming a doctor, your academic performance must be outstanding, and it's essential to start planning early.

To become a registered nurse (RN), the process is rigorous and often a stepping stone towards becoming a doctor. Nursing school is the first step, where you spend the first year gaining general knowledge and skills. However, it’s important to recognize that pursuing a career as a medical assistant or certified nurse aide (CNA) is not a direct route to a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO).

It’s like taking a scenic route to New York from Los Angeles, making stops in various destinations, but ultimately the journey doesn't necessarily lead to your original destination. While these roles may provide valuable experience, they do not adequately prepare you for the extensive education and clinical training required to become a physician.

Steps to Become an RN

The journey to becoming an RN typically involves the following steps:

High School Preparation: Focus on core subjects like science, biology, and mathematics. A high GPA is essential for admission to nursing programs. Undergraduate Degree: Pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Earning an undergraduate degree not only prepares you for nursing school but also provides a solid academic foundation for medical school if that is your ultimate goal. Maintaining Academic Excellence: Ensure you consistently perform well academically to satisfy the demands of nursing school and meet medical school prerequisites. MCAT Exam: Taking the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a critical step for medical school admission. Medical School: Enroll in a reputable medical school and gain the extensive knowledge and skills needed to become a physician. Residency and Fellowship: Completing a residency and possibly a fellowship to become a specialist are often required steps for becoming a doctor.

The entire journey can take a minimum of 12 years after high school, making it crucial to avoid wasting time on less direct paths.

Plan B Considerations

It’s wise to have a backup plan in case you don’t get into medical school. Nursing is a stable profession, and a strong GPA in undergraduate studies can open doors to other nursing programs or even further academic pursuits outside of medicine.

For instance, consider a degree in a related field like biology or pre-med, which can enhance your chances of being accepted into a medical school or non-medical graduate programs in the future. This flexibility can be invaluable, especially given the highly competitive nature of medical school admissions.

The Fast Track to a CNA

Becoming a certified nurse aide (CNA) can be a quick and cost-effective path into the healthcare industry. The training program is relatively short, typically lasting only 2 weeks, and can be completed for as little as a few hundred dollars, though costs can range between $1000 to $2000. The training program is designed to provide basic patient care skills and a certification test.

Government support is available for CNAs, especially for those who work in nursing homes. The Federal Government reimburses up to $5,250 for CNA training if the applicant finds employment in a nursing facility. Sometimes, local employers offer free training opportunities, and online resources can also be beneficial. For example:

CNA Classes Online for Free Jobs and Certification Training Programs

These resources can enhance your skills as a CNA, but it's still mandatory to complete the in-state certification training and testing.

Differences Between CNA and Medical Assistant

While both roles offer valuable skills in the healthcare field, there are key differences:

Training and Certification: CNA training is typically shorter and less expensive than that of a medical assistant (MA), which can last up to several months. Paying and Responsibilities: CNA roles generally pay less than MAs, and CNAs are more focused on patient care and basic administration tasks. MAs have a wider scope of duties, including assisting with medical procedures, taking vital signs, and scheduling appointments. Job Prospects: Both roles have good job prospects, but MAs often have more opportunities for advancement within medical facilities.

Ultimately, while the route to becoming a physician can be lengthy and challenging, weighing the differences between becoming a CNA or a medical assistant can provide valuable experience and a stepping stone to your dream career in medicine.