Easier to find job as an MA then LPN :(

[proudauntie415, LPN, RN]

Hello all!

Why does it seem easier to find a job as a Medical Assistant then a new LPN grad?

I was a MA for years, and got any job I applied for as an MA...but I am so proud to now call myself a NURSE!!! I can do so much more for my patients!!!

But the job market is sooo competitive for LPN's, even the pay. I have been offered only a few dollars more. MA jobs I was experienced (over 12 years in fast paced clinics) and could get a job at two shakes of a lambs tail, now as a new grad it's back the bottom of the totem pole.

I was prepared for it, cause MA and LPN are two DIFFERENT train of thought...but to be treated as if I just woke up one day and decided to join the medical field is hard.

I love being a nurse and caring for those in need....but still at the end of the day have to pay my bills..go back to being an MA? ugh.

Is this what it's going to be like when I become an RN? Only LPN jobs available, lol

Positive encouragement needed.

[LVN2RNMom, ASN, BSN, LVN]

I was a non certified medical assistant for 6 yrs. I did everything from running the front office to assistanting in the back office. I left to work for a major healthcare insurance company for nearly 12 yrs. I made darn good $$ in the insurance industry but my passion was nursing. As an NCMA, I knew I wanted more. This was when I realized I was born to be a nurse. Although my life lead me to a different direction, I have no regrets about getting my LVN 18 years following. I love being an LVN & although I tried to do the same as you, I realized I was doing myself a diservice. I waited a long time to become a nurse & why should I sell myself short? It took time, dedication, tears & many hours of computer searching then calling before I finally got my 1st LVN job. If you are passionate about it, then go for it with all you got & sell yourself! Design your cover letters specific to the job you are applying to & you do have medical experience. I created my resume with my old MA experience listed. You have the experience and if you have the passion then it will work out for you. Also apply to jobs outside of your comfort. Out of state and large cities. I did this & figured if anything came about, I would deal with it at that time. After everything I just accepted a position working for a Los Angeles County Hospital. Yes, as an LVN in the hospital. good luck & never give up on your dreams. No one or nothing is worth it.

[AngelicDarkness]

I think the job market is competive and based on what I've seen on the boards here, a lot of LPNs have had to relocate in the US to maintain jobs. I've never seen the competition between MAs and LPNs in Canada, as both have many jobs available and we haven't seen that issue.

Wishing you the best of luck on your job hunting!:)