What are Some Entry-Level Career Options in Pediatrics?
Some entry-level career options in pediatrics include medical assistant, licensed practical nurse and physician's assistant. These jobs can be found in a variety of pediatric settings, including private practices, general hospitals and surgical centers.
Entry-Level Careers in Pediatrics
Many schools offer programs that train individuals to work in pediatrics though a variety of occupations that may cover clerical and clinical tasks. Some of these jobs call for training programs of two years or fewer, while others may require a 4-year degree and additional training. Here is a look at the education requirements and job duties for several occupations.
Important Facts About Entry-Level Career Options in Pediatrics
| Pediatric Medical Assistant | Pediatric Licensed Practical Nurse | Pediatric Physician's Assistant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Certification / Licensure | Voluntary, but preferred by employers; the Institute for Credentialing Excellence offers five different certification options | Mandatory; the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-PN) | Mandatory; provided by the National Commission on Certification of Physicians Assistants (NCCPA) |
| Key Skills | Analytical thinking; attention to detail; computer competency; social nuance | Empathy; patience; physical stamina; clear communication | Clear communication; problem solving; attention to detail; empathy |
| Work Environment | Full-time; some evening, weekend, or holidays shifts may be required | Typically full-time with some nights, weekends, or holidays required | Typically full-time with some shifts during nights, weekends, holidays, or on-call as needed |
| Similar Occupations | Dental assistants; occupational therapy assistants and aides; pharmacy technicians | Physical therapist assistants and aides; psychiatric technicians and aides; surgical technologists | Physicians and surgeons; speech-language pathologists; physical therapists |
Pediatric Medical Assistant
Medical assistants are responsible for both clerical and clinical duties. Though they are occasionally trained on the job, most medical assistants complete 1- or 2-year diploma or degree programs. After graduating, they might work in a variety of health care settings, although private practice physicians employ the majority of pediatric medical assistants. Answering phones, scheduling appointments and billing insurance companies are just a few of the administrative tasks completed by medical assistants. Clinical duties are limited by state law but might include:
- Collecting lab samples
- Recording vital signs
- Maintaining exam rooms
Career Outlook and Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), www.bls.gov, jobs for medical assistants were expected to grow by 16% from 2021-31, much faster than the average for other professions. The BLS said the median annual wage for medical assistants was $37,190 as of May 2021.
Pediatric Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) work under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. In a pediatric practice, LPNs assist in the care of children and adolescents. They must complete a medical training program, usually lasting about a year, and earn licensure through their state board of nursing. Pediatric LPNs typically work in doctors' offices or the pediatric wings of hospitals. Their duties might include:
- Giving injections
- Dressing wounds
- Monitoring vital signs
Career Outlook and Salary
Jobs for all LPNs were predicted by the BLS to increase by 6% from 2021-31, faster than for other occupations. The BLS noted that the median annual wage for this occupation was $48,070 as of May 2021.
Pediatric Physician's Assistant
Physician's assistants work under the direct supervision of practicing doctors. Entering the field requires an undergraduate degree and completion of a 2-year postgraduate physician assistant program. Some facilities also may require previous health care experience.
In clinic settings where doctors are in-office only a few days a week, physician's assistants may act as primary care providers. State law largely dictates duties assigned to physician's assistants, but typical jobs may include:
- Interpreting laboratory tests
- Taking medical histories
- Treating minor injuries
Career Outlook and Salary
Jobs for all physician's assistants were expected by the BLS to increase by 28% from 2021-31, much faster than other jobs. The BLS reported the median annual wage for this profession was $121,530 as of May 2021.
