Which i a better degree to have, physical therapy assistant or medical assistant?

Question

I am planning on becoming a physical therapist assistant and my couselor at my school said that I can also get a degree in medical assisting, while I am waiting to get into the PTA program, but I'm not really sure which one is better and what exactly a medical assistant is. I love physical therapy and it is my dream to become a PTA. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Average salary for a medical assistant (not to be confused with a physician assistant) is about $26,000...average salary for a PTA is about $10-15,000 more.  

Medical assistants provide a combination of clerical and basic medical tasks such as taking blood pressure and vital signs.  

The education for MAs is by no means strenuous...usually about a year.  Yet, it is a career that is expected to grow rapidly.

PTAs require at least an associates degree.  They are directly involved in patient career for physical therapy services typically under "on site" supervision by a PT.  This job is also expected to grow rapidly.  

I would really see no benefit of becoming an MA if you plan to go to PTA school, unless you need to get a decent job while going to PTA school.