Medical assistants are trained to perform both administrative and clinical tasks in medical settings. Their administrative duties may include tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and billing and coding for insurance purposes. Clinical tasks may include taking vital signs, performing routine lab tests, and assisting with medical procedures.

Patient care technicians, on the other hand, focus primarily on direct patient care. They may assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing and feeding, and help patients with mobility and transfers. Patient care technicians may also assist with taking vital signs, performing basic medical procedures, and monitoring patients for changes in their condition.