What career route should I go for PA school?

My goal is to get into PA school and become a physician assistant. I currently work at a senior care facility as a front desk receptionist, but there are openings for caregiver positions. I’ve emailed a few PA programs to ask whether the caregiver role would count as patient care experience. Two programs said it would count, while one said it would not, and I’m still waiting to hear back from others. I don’t have a CNA certification, and honestly, caregiving is not something I’m very interested in. I would prefer a role where I could take vitals and perform more clinical tasks. I’ve applied to medical assistant positions that do not require certification, but I haven’t had any luck, and getting a CMA certification is very expensive. I’m unsure whether I should take the caregiver opportunity to begin gaining patient care hours (that may possibly not count) or wait for a position that is more closely related to medical assisting and get certified. I would really appreciate any honest advice.