Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) vs. Medical Assistant: Explaining The Difference for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Someone trying to choose between becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or a Medical Assistant (MA) may struggle to understand the key differences in job duties, training, and career prospects. Both roles provide essential patient care, but their responsibilities, work settings, and long-term opportunities vary significantly.

This article breaks down the distinctions between LPNs and MAs, including job duties, required education, and salary expectations. For instance, LPN programs typically cost between $10,000 and $15,000, while MA programs range from $5,000 to $15,000, with completion rates of 70% and 80%, respectively. Prepared by experts in career planning, this guide will help readers make an informed decision about which path best suits their goals.

Key Things You Should Know About Licensed Practical Nurse vs. Medical Assistant

• LPNs have a broader scope of practice than MAs – LPNs primarily provide direct patient care, including administering medications and monitoring vital signs, while MAs handle both clinical and administrative tasks. LPNs work in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings, whereas MAs typically work in outpatient clinics and physicians' offices.
• Training requirements and costs vary – LPN programs take 12–18 months and cost between $10,000 and $15,000, while MA programs range from 9 months to 2 years and cost $5,000–$15,000. Completion rates are around 70% for LPNs and 80% for MAs.
• Licensing is required for LPNs but optional for MAs – LPNs must pass the NCLEX-PN exam to obtain licensure, with a pass rate of about 80.3% as of 2023. MAs can enter the workforce without certification, though obtaining credentials can improve job prospects.
• Job growth differs between the two careers – The demand for MAs is growing faster, with a projected 15% increase from 2023 to 2033, compared to 5% for LPNs. The higher demand for MAs is driven by the need for preventive care and outpatient services.
• Salary potential favors LPNs – LPNs earn a median salary of $59,730, whereas MAs earn around $42,000. However, MAs have more stable work schedules, while LPNs may need to work nights and weekends, particularly in hospital settings.

Table of Contents

1. What are the key differences between LPNs and medical assistants?
2. How to Become an LPN or a Medical Assistant for 2025
3. Do LPNs and MAs need credentials?
4. How do LPN and medical assistant duties compare?
5. What legal and ethical responsibilities do LPNs and medical assistants have?
6. What are the biggest challenges of working as an LPN or medical assistant?
7. How can further education boost your nursing career?
8. Is an Accelerated RN to BSN Program the Next Step for Your Career Growth?
9. Can non-nursing professionals pursue an MSN?
10. Can you transition from a medical assistant to an LPN?
11. Can LPNs or Medical Assistants Pursue a Direct Path to NP Roles?
12. Which career is growing faster, LPNs or medical assistants?
13. LPN vs. Medical Assistant: Which Career is Right for You
14. Could advanced psychiatric mental health training be your next strategic career move?
15. What are the opportunities for career advancement beyond LPN and Medical Assistant roles?
16. Other Things You Should Know About Licensed Practical Nurse vs. Medical Assistant

What are the key differences between LPNs and medical assistants?

The main difference between a licensed practical nurse and a medical assistant lies in their training and scope of practice. LPNs provide direct patient care, such as administering medications and monitoring vital signs, while MAs perform both clinical tasks—like taking patient histories—and administrative duties, including scheduling appointments.

LPNs are more hands-on with patients, often in hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare settings. MAs typically work in outpatient clinics and physicians' offices, assisting doctors with exams and minor procedures. A medical assistant cannot work as an LPN without additional training and licensing. LPNs focus more on clinical care, whereas MAs balance patient care with office tasks.

Individuals looking to advance their careers may benefit from understanding how much do BSNs make, as it provides insight into long-term earning potential. Registered Nurses (RNs) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) typically earn higher salaries and have more job opportunities compared to LPNs, making it a desirable next step for many healthcare professionals.

How to Become an LPN or a Medical Assistant for 2025

To become a licensed practical nurse or a medical assistant, you must complete a formal training program. LPNs require more extensive clinical education, while MAs have a shorter and more flexible training path.

Steps to Become an LPN or MA

Becoming an LPN or an MA requires completing a formal training program. While both roles involve patient care, their education paths, clinical training, and certification requirements differ.

1. Education Requirements: LPNs must complete a state-approved nursing program (12-18 months) with hands-on clinical training. MAs can earn a diploma or certificate (9-12 months) or an associate degree (2 years).
2. Clinical Training: Both programs require hands-on experience, but LPNs receive more extensive patient care training. Some MA programs offer online coursework, but clinical training must be completed in person.
3. Costs & Completion Rates: LPN programs have an average tuition of $10,000–$15,000. MA programs cost range from $5,000–$15,000, depending on the school. Medical assistant certification online cost varies by provider, typically ranging from $500 to $3,000. Completion rates are about 80% for MAs and 70% for LPNs.
4. Accredited Schools & Training Options: The U.S. has over 1,200 accredited LPN schools and 900 MA programs, providing various learning paths.

Student loan debt is typically higher for LPNs due to longer training. While LPN programs are rarely entirely online, MA programs offer more flexibility with hybrid learning options.

Do LPNs and MAs need credentials?

A licensed practical nurse must obtain licensure, while a medical assistant is typically not required to be licensed. LPNs complete a state-approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam, while MAs can enter the field through a postsecondary program. Although MA certification is optional, it can improve job prospects.

Certification requirements for MAs vary by state, with some mandating it. Even where not required, certification can enhance employment opportunities. LPNs must renew their licenses every two years, often with continuing education, while MA certification renewal depends on the certifying organization.

The NCLEX-PN exam has a pass rate of about 80.3% as of 2023. MA certification exam pass rates vary. Costs also differ: the NCLEX-PN fee is around $200, while MA certification exams range from $125 to $250, with additional renewal and education costs.

For those wondering, What is the fastest RN certification program? Many accelerated RN programs allow LPNs to become registered nurses in as little as 12 months.

While LPNs require licensure, MAs can boost career prospects with certification. Both roles need periodic credential renewal to stay current.

How do LPN and medical assistant duties compare?

Medical assistants and LPNs have distinct roles in healthcare. LPNs primarily focus on direct patient care, while MAs handle a mix of clinical and administrative tasks. The scope of practice for both roles varies by state regulations, affecting the procedures they can perform.

Patient Care Responsibilities

• LPNs: Administer medications, monitor vital signs, assist with daily activities, and provide wound care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) or physicians.
• MAs: Take patient histories, check vital signs, prepare exam rooms, and assist with minor medical procedures. Those starting out can explore helpful tips to get a medical assistant job with no experience.

Medication Administration

• LPNs: Are legally authorized to administer medications, including oral, topical, and injectable drugs. In some states, they can start IV lines with additional certification.
• MAs: May give injections and medications only in states that allow it, and always under direct supervision.

Legal Scope of Practice

• LPNs: Have a broader scope of practice, often performing more complex medical tasks.
• MAs: Are limited by state laws, with some states restricting their ability to perform advanced procedures.

Work Supervision

• LPNs work under RNs or physicians, often in hospitals, nursing homes, and long-term care settings.
• MAs work under physicians, primarily in outpatient clinics and private practices.

While both roles support patient care, LPNs have more direct patient responsibilities and greater clinical authority than MAs. However, both play essential roles in healthcare, ensuring smooth operations and quality patient care.

What legal and ethical responsibilities do LPNs and medical assistants have?

Medical assistants and LPNs must follow legal regulations and ethical standards to ensure safe patient care. They can be held accountable for errors, with LPNs facing independent liability and MAs typically working under a physician’s supervision, which may shift liability to the doctor.

Liability and Malpractice

Liability and malpractice refer to healthcare professionals' legal responsibility when providing patient care. LPNs and medical assistants must follow regulations to avoid negligence claims and ensure patient safety.

• LPNs: Can be personally liable for mistakes, as they have an independent nursing license.
• MAs: Work under a physician’s supervision, meaning the doctor may be responsible for their errors.

Ethical Standards

Ethical standards guide healthcare professionals in making responsible and moral decisions in patient care. 

• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.
• Obtain informed consent before performing procedures.
• Uphold professional integrity by following medical protocols.

Regarding legal protections, LPNs and MAs must comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which mandates the protection of patient information. Violations can lead to penalties ranging from verbal warnings to termination, depending on the severity.

While specific statistics on malpractice claims and legal violations involving LPNs and MAs are limited, both roles must adhere to their respective scopes of practice and ethical guidelines to minimize legal risks and ensure patient safety.

What are the biggest challenges of working as an LPN or medical assistant?

Licensed practical nurses and MAs encounter various challenges in their daily work, ranging from emotional stress to physical strain. These difficulties can impact job satisfaction, career longevity, and overall well-being.

High-Stress Work Environment

LPNs and MAs often work in fast-paced settings with heavy patient loads. They must juggle multiple tasks, including patient care, documentation, and coordination with healthcare teams. Administrative burdens, such as insurance paperwork and electronic health records, add to the workload.

Physical Demands and Workplace Injuries

Lifting, transferring, and assisting patients can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. Standing for long hours contributes to fatigue and chronic pain. Exposure to infectious diseases and hazardous materials increases health risks.

Burnout and Job Dissatisfaction

Long shifts, including nights and weekends, make work-life balance difficult. Emotional strain from dealing with critically ill or uncooperative patients adds to stress. High turnover rates indicate that many leave these careers due to exhaustion and dissatisfaction.

In comparison to other nursing roles, understanding the difference between registered nurse and licensed practical nurse helps clarify the scope and expectations that might influence job stress levels.

Workplace Violence and Safety Concerns

LPNs and MAs frequently face verbal abuse, threats, and even physical assaults from patients or visitors. Emergency rooms, psychiatric facilities, and nursing homes have higher rates of workplace violence. Insufficient security measures and understaffing can make these incidents more frequent and severe.

These challenges make resilience, strong coping strategies, and workplace support essential for those pursuing an LPN or MA career.

How can further education boost your nursing career?

Pursuing advanced education can transform your clinical foundation into a leadership role with greater responsibilities. Targeted programs offer enhanced training in patient care management, clinical decision-making, and healthcare administration, allowing professionals to secure specialized positions and increase earning potential. By choosing flexible formats such as part-time or fully online courses, you can tailor your studies to fit work and personal commitments. For a swift transition into advanced clinical roles, consider exploring accelerated nurse practitioner programs online as a pathway to accelerate career growth.

Is an Accelerated RN to BSN Program the Next Step for Your Career Growth?

For healthcare professionals aiming to broaden their scope and expedite their transition into advanced nursing roles, pursuing an accelerated RN to BSN program can be a strategic move. These intensive programs are designed to build on your existing clinical knowledge while rapidly elevating your qualifications, offering enhanced leadership opportunities and potentially improved compensation. For more detailed information on fast-track options, consider exploring accelerated RN to BSN programs.

Can non-nursing professionals pursue an MSN?

Non-nursing professionals holding a bachelor’s degree may advance their careers by enrolling in accelerated graduate programs that integrate foundational nursing content with advanced clinical practice. These programs are designed to swiftly bridge academic and practical gaps, enabling candidates to assume leadership roles in various healthcare settings. By opting for tailored pathways that combine rigorous coursework with clinical field experience, graduates can secure positions in management, research, or specialized patient care. For an efficient transition into advanced nursing, consider exploring direct MSN programs online.

Can you transition from a medical assistant to an LPN?

A medical assistant can transition to a licensed practical nurse by completing an accredited LPN program and obtaining licensure. Many institutions offer bridge programs designed specifically for MAs, allowing them to apply previous coursework and experience toward LPN education. These programs typically take less than a year to complete.

The process involves enrolling in a state-approved practical nursing program, which may grant credit for prior MA education, thereby shortening the duration of the program. After completing the coursework, candidates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) to obtain licensure.

Transitioning from an MA to an LPN can be beneficial, as LPNs generally have higher earning potential and expanded clinical responsibilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2023, medical assistants earn a median salary of $42,000, while LPNs earn a median salary of $59,730. 

MAs seeking career advancement can transition to LPN roles through dedicated bridge programs, which can lead to increased responsibilities and improved compensation. For those also considering advanced studies in the healthcare field, exploring an option like what is an MPH degree may provide long-term career benefits.

Can LPNs or Medical Assistants Pursue a Direct Path to NP Roles?

Navigating the transition from an LPN or Medical Assistant role to an advanced Nurse Practitioner position requires a clear understanding of specialized educational pathways. For professionals seeking to expand their scope without traditional prerequisites, accredited direct entry NP programs for non-nurses offer an alternative route. These programs integrate foundational clinical education with advanced practice training, ensuring that candidates can effectively bridge their current expertise into higher-level patient care roles while meeting rigorous accreditation standards.

Which career is growing faster, LPNs or medical assistants?

Medical assistant jobs are growing faster than licensed practical nurse roles. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% increase in MA employment from 2023 to 2033, compared to 5% for LPNs.

Demand for MAs is rising due to an aging population needing more preventive care, especially in physicians' offices and outpatient centers. LPNs are also in demand, particularly in long-term care, but at a slower rate.

Both careers offer stability, but MAs may have more opportunities due to their mix of administrative and clinical duties. However, automation and AI could impact administrative tasks, with AI handling up to 30% of nurses’ paperwork, potentially reducing demand for MAs in non-clinical roles. LPNs, with their direct patient care focus, are less affected by automation.

For career advancement, easiest nurse practitioner program options can lead to higher pay and more autonomy. Becoming an NP opens doors to greater opportunities in healthcare.

While both professions are vital, MAs are growing faster, driven by industry trends and technology shifts.

LPN vs. Medical Assistant: Which Career is Right for You

Choosing between a licensed practical nurse and a medical assistant depends on your career goals. LPNs focus on direct patient care, administering medications, and monitoring vital signs, while MAs handle both clinical tasks and administrative duties like scheduling and record-keeping.

LPNs have a clearer path to advancement, often transitioning to registered nursing roles. MAs can move into office management or specialized clinical positions, but these paths require additional training. For MAs looking to enter nursing, a medical assistant to LPN bridge program provides a faster route by applying previous experience toward LPN coursework.

LPNs excel with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for hands-on care, while MAs benefit from multitasking and administrative expertise. Job satisfaction varies, with stress and salary concerns affecting both roles.

As of 2025, MA jobs are projected to grow by 14% from 2022 to 2032, compared to 5% for LPNs, suggesting more opportunities for MAs.

If you prefer structured advancement and patient care, LPN may be the better fit. If you enjoy a mix of clinical and administrative work in a fast-growing field, an MA career might be right for you.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Choosing Between LPN and Medical Assistant Careers

I’ve always wanted a hands-on role in patient care, but I wasn’t sure whether to become an LPN or a Medical Assistant. After researching, I found that LPNs focus more on clinical tasks like administering medications, while MAs handle patient care and administrative duties. Since I’m more interested in direct patient care, I’m considering the LPN route for its career advancement opportunities. — Ingrid

Work-life balance is important to me, so I wanted to understand the schedules of LPNs and Medical Assistants. MAs work in outpatient clinics with more regular hours, while LPNs often take shifts in hospitals and nursing homes. I’m leaning toward becoming an MA because the consistent schedule fits my lifestyle better. — Callum

Job stability and salary were my main concerns when comparing LPN and Medical Assistant careers. I learned that MA jobs are growing quickly, but LPNs typically earn more and have a clearer path to becoming an RN. Understanding these factors has helped me weigh my options more realistically. — Anika

Could advanced psychiatric mental health training be your next strategic career move?

Advanced training in psychiatric mental health offers a pathway for professionals to diversify clinical expertise and access specialized roles in mental healthcare settings. This targeted education not only enhances patient care capabilities but also improves long-term earning potential and career autonomy. Evaluating innovative online programs can help professionals align their clinical skills with the growing demand for mental health services. Consider exploring options such as cheapest online psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner programs to strategically position your career for emerging opportunities in this dynamic field.

What are the opportunities for career advancement beyond LPN and Medical Assistant roles?

Both LPNs and MAs can explore educational and professional pathways that extend their clinical expertise and leadership capacities. For instance, LPNs may advance into supervisory or specialized clinical roles through additional certification and further training, while medical assistants might transition into healthcare administration or move toward clinical positions by obtaining accredited nursing credentials. Continuing education, such as enrolling in RN to MSN NP programs, can accelerate career advancement for those aiming to assume higher-level responsibilities and improve patient outcomes.

Other Things You Should Know About Licensed Practical Nurse vs. Medical Assistant

Which states pay LPNs and medical assistants the most?

As of 2024, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) earn the highest average salaries in Hawaii, with an annual mean wage of $60,494 For Medical Assistants (MAs), Washington state offers the top pay, with an annual mean salary of $53,780.

Do LPNs and medical assistants have opportunities to work abroad?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) have opportunities to work abroad, particularly in countries facing nursing shortages and actively recruiting internationally, such as the United Kingdom and Ireland. In 2024, over 38,000 work permits were issued to non-EU individuals to work in Ireland, with healthcare being a leading sector. However, opportunities for Medical Assistants (MAs) abroad are more limited, as their roles and certifications are often specific to the U.S. healthcare system. MAs may need to seek additional qualifications or certifications to align with the requirements of healthcare systems in other countries.

Can LPNs and medical assistants work remotely?

Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) have opportunities for remote work in roles such as telehealth nursing, utilization review, and patient education. For instance, positions like Clinical Reviewer or Care Navigator allow LPNs to work from home, leveraging their clinical expertise in non-direct patient care settings. Conversely, remote opportunities for Medical Assistants are less common, as their duties often require direct patient interaction and on-site administrative support. However, some administrative roles, such as medical coding or patient scheduling, may offer limited remote possibilities for experienced MAs.

Can LPNs and medical assistants own their own businesses?

LPNs and medical assistants can own their own businesses, but they are limited to non-clinical services unless partnered with licensed healthcare providers. In 2024, many LPNs run home healthcare agencies, wellness consulting, or CNA training programs, while medical assistants often start medical billing, patient advocacy, or administrative support services. However, they cannot diagnose, prescribe, or provide independent medical care. State regulations vary, so checking local licensing laws is essential before starting a business.

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