Pediatric Medical Assistant Salary Breakdown

• National average pediatric medical assistant salary
• Factors affecting pediatric medical assistant salaries
• Salary breakdown by region
• Highest paying states
• Mid-range paying states
• Lower-paying states
• Hourly vs. annual pediatric medical assistant salary
• What degree do you need to be a pediatric medical assistant?
• How long does it take to become a pediatric assistant?
• How to increase your pediatric medical assistant salary

If you're considering a career as a Pediatric Medical Assistant, it's important to know the earning potential as medical assistants have become important in the medical office. In 2023, the median annual salary for this role is $42,000, with an average salary of around $38,376 per year. Salaries range from $30,389 for the lowest earners to $51,709 for those at the top of the pay scale. Understanding these figures will help you assess the financial rewards of pursuing this career.

National average pediatric medical assistant salary

The national average salary for a medical assistant in pediatricsis approximately $38,376 per year, which translates to an hourly wage of around $18.45. While salaries vary based on experience and location, the lowest earners in this field make about $30,389 annually, and the highest earners can earn up to $51,709.

Factors affecting pediatric medical assistant salaries

If you're exploring a career as a Pediatric Medical Assistant, understanding the salary potential is essential for making an informed decision. In 2023, the national median salary for this role is $42,000 annually, with an average salary of approximately $38,376 per year.

Entry-level professionals can expect to earn around $30,389, while more experienced individuals can make up to $51,709. These figures highlight the earning potential and growth opportunities in this rewarding healthcare career.

• Experience: As with most healthcare roles, the more experience you have, the higher your salary. Those with several years in the field or those who take on specialized roles typically earn more than entry-level professionals.
• Location: Salaries can vary greatly depending on where you work. Areas with a higher cost of living or greater demand for pediatric care often offer higher salaries to attract qualified professionals.
• Certifications and Education: Completing additional training or certifications can increase your earning potential. Specialized skills or advanced certifications may make you a more competitive candidate, leading to better pay opportunities.
• Employer Type: Working for larger healthcare facilities, such as hospitals or specialty clinics, may offer higher salaries compared to smaller practices or private pediatric offices.  

Salary breakdown by region

The salary of a Pediatric Medical Assistant as one of the highest-paid medical assistant specialties can vary significantly depending on the region you work in. In general, states with a higher cost of living or greater demand for healthcare professionals tend to offer higher salaries.

Highest paying states

Some of the highest-paying states for Pediatric Medical Assistants include California, New York, and Massachusetts. These states offer salaries well above the national average, often ranging from $45,000 to $55,000 annually. The demand for skilled healthcare workers in urban centers and the higher cost of living contribute to these competitive salaries.

Mid-range paying states

States like Florida, Texas, and Ohio offer more moderate salaries for Pediatric Medical Assistants, typically ranging from $38,000 to $45,000 annually. These areas still offer competitive pay but at a slightly lower rate compared to high-demand regions.

Lower-paying states

In regions with lower costs of living, such as Mississippi, Alabama, and West Virginia, Pediatric Medical Assistants may earn between $30,000 and $38,000 annually. While these states offer lower salaries, they can still provide a fulfilling career with a manageable cost of living.

Hourly vs. annual pediatric medical assistant salary

When considering a career as a Pediatric Medical Assistant, it’s important to understand how your salary can be structured, whether it’s paid hourly or annually. Both pay models have their advantages, and the choice can impact your overall compensation as to where can medical assistants work.

What degree do you need to be a pediatric medical assistant?

To become a Pediatric Medical Assistant in Florida, you typically need a high school diploma or GED as the minimum educational requirement. In addition, completing a medical assistant training program is essential. These programs can range from a certificate to an associate's degree, providing you with the necessary skills to work effectively in pediatric healthcare settings.

While national certification is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for career advancement. Obtaining certification, such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), can enhance your job prospects and increase your earning potential. Many employers prefer candidates with certification as it demonstrates a commitment to professional development and ensures you have the required competencies to excel in the role.

How long does it take to become a pediatric assistant?

Becoming a pediatric physician assistant (PA) in Florida typically takes about two years of dedicated study and clinical training, specially for this medical assistant specialties. This includes completing a bachelor's degree, followed by a master's degree in a PA program that specializes in pediatrics. These programs often involve clinical rotations in various pediatric settings to gain hands-on experience.

On the other hand, if you’re pursuing a medical assistant career in pediatrics, the timeline can be much shorter. Some medical assistant certification programs can be completed in as little as four months, depending on the course structure. These programs often include clinical training and may require passing certification exams before you can officially begin your career.

How to increase your pediatric medical assistant salary

To increase your salary as a Pediatric Medical Assistant in Florida, there are several strategies you can pursue:

• Gain Experience: The more experience you have, the higher your earning potential. As you gain hands-on experience and take on more responsibilities, you can expect your salary to rise.
• Earn Certifications: Obtaining national certifications can significantly boost your earning potential. Certifications like the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) can make you more competitive and help you qualify for higher-paying positions.
• Specialize in Higher-Paying Areas: Consider specializing in areas of pediatrics that may offer higher pay, such as pediatric cardiology or pediatric oncology. Specialization often leads to increased job opportunities and higher compensation.
• Consider Location: Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living generally offer higher salaries for Pediatric Medical Assistants due to the increased demand for healthcare services. Moving to or working in these areas may improve your salary prospects.