Finding the Right Medical Assistant Program in St. Louis

Learn about the different medical assistant programs in St. Louis and find the one that is right for you.

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Introduction

Medical assistants are in high demand in the state of Missouri. In order to become a medical assistant you must complete an accredited program. The type of program you choose will determine the amount of time it will take to complete your training.

There are three types of medical assistant programs: certificate, diploma, and degree. A certificate program is the shortest type of program and can be completed in as little as eight months. A diploma program usually takes about a year to complete, and a degree program will take the longest at two years.

The majority of medical assistant programs in St. Louis are accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These two organizations are recognized by the US Department of Education as accrediting agencies for medical assistant programs.

Once you have completed an accredited medical assistant program, you will be eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). You must pass this exam in order to become a certified medical assistant.

Why St. Louis?

St. Louis is one of the most affordable places to live in the Midwest and has a low cost of living. The city also has a diverse population and is home to many medical facilities, making it a great place to begin your career as a medical assistant.

There are many reasons to choose St. Louis as the place to pursue your career in medical assisting. The city has a lower cost of living than many other places in the country, making it an affordable place to live and work. Additionally, St. Louis is home to many different medical facilities, giving you plenty of opportunities to find an externship or job after graduation.

The city is also diverse, with a large population of both racial and ethnic minorities. This diversity can be found in both the city itself and in the medical facilities around town. You’ll be able to work with patients from all backgrounds, which can give you valuable experience in dealing with different types of people.

If you’re looking for a great place to start your career as a medical assistant, St. Louis should be at the top of your list. The city offers affordable living, plenty of job opportunities, and a diverse population that will provide you with valuable experience in your field.

What to Look for in a Medical Assistant Program

If you’re considering a career as a medical assistant, you might be wondering how to choose the right program. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some things to look for in a medical assistant program:

-The program should be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
-It should prepare you for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
-The curriculum should include coursework in anatomy and physiology, Medical Terminology pharmacology, and other relevant subjects.
-The program should offer hands-on clinical experience in a variety of medical settings.
-The school should have a good reputation and be well-regarded by employers in the St. Louis area.

If you keep these things in mind, you’ll be on your way to finding the right medical assistant program for you.

The Different Types of Medical Assistant Programs

There are many different types of medical assistant programs, so it can be difficult to know which one is best for you. Here is a brief overview of the most common types of programs to help you make an informed decision.

1. Hospital-based programs are typically the longest, at around two years. They combine classroom instruction with on-the-job training at a hospital, giving you a well-rounded education.

2. Community college programs last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the school. These programs usually take place entirely in the classroom, with some offering internships or externships to gain real-world experience.

3. Vocational schools offer shorter medical assistant programs that can be completed in as little as six months. These programs focus mainly on practical skills, so they may not provide as much theoretical knowledge as other types of programs.

4. Online medical assistant programs are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a more flexible way to learn. These programs can vary greatly in length, but most can be completed in around a year. Make sure to choose an accredited program to ensure that your education will be recognized by employers.

The Application Process

To be eligible to apply for the AAMA-accredited Medical Assistant program at Concorde Career College-St. Louis, applicants must complete the following steps:

1. Schedule an appointment with an Admissions Advisor. During this meeting, the student and Admissions Advisor will review the admissions requirements and process, tour the campus, and discuss any questions the prospective student may have.
2. Complete and submit a Concorde Career Colleges application for admission along with any required documents.
3. Once the completed application is received, an entrance exam will be scheduled. Prospective students must achieve a passing score on the entrance exam to be eligible for admission into the program.
4. Upon successful completion of the entrance exam, students will meet with a Financial Aid Officer to discuss their funding options and complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The Interview Process

After candidates have applied to a medical assistant program in St. Louis, the most competitive schools will invite them in for an interview. The purpose of the interview is two-fold: To give candidates an opportunity to learn more about the school, and for the admissions team to get to know the candidates better.

Here are some tips to help you make a good impression during your medical assistant program interview:

Be on time: This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to remember that first impressions matter. Showing up on time (or even early) shows that you’re respectful of other people’s time and that you’re organized.

Dress the part: Again, first impressions matter. Dressing in business casual attire shows that you take the interview process seriously and that you have respect for the school and its representatives.

Be prepared: One of the best ways to show that you’re serious about getting into a medical assistant program is to come prepared with questions. This shows that you’ve done your research and that you’re interested in learning more about the school.

Be yourself: The interview process is also an opportunity for the admissions team to get to know you as a person. Be friendly and open, and let your personality shine through!

What to Expect After Graduating

Finding the Right Medical Assistant Program in St. Louis
After you have graduated from an accredited medical assistant program, you will be able to sit for the certified medical assistant (CMA) examination administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Once you have passed this exam, you will be a certified medical assistant and will be able to work in a healthcare setting.

The Job Market for Medical Assistants in St. Louis

The Job Market for Medical Assistants in St. Louis

Medical Assistants are in high demand in the city of St. Louis and the state of Missouri. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for medical assistants is expected to grow by 29% from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. With this growth comes opportunities for those who are interested in becoming a medical assistant.

While there are many ways to become a medical assistant, one of the most popular methods is to complete a postsecondary education program. These programs typically take about 12 months to complete and often lead to an Associate’s degree or diploma.

There are many different medical assistant programs available in St. Louis, so it is important to do your research before enrolling in one. Below are some factors to consider when choosing a program:
-cost
-accreditation
-length of program
-curriculum
-clinical rotations
-job placement assistance

Salary Expectations for Medical Assistants in St. Louis

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for Medical Assistants in St. Louis is $36,550. However, salaries can range from $26,860 to $49,430 depending on experience and education level.

Conclusion

If you want to become a medical assistant, there are many things to consider. Location is one of the most important factors. You want to make sure you choose a program that is close to where you live or work. St. Louis is a great city to live in and there are many medical assistant programs to choose from.

The best way to find the right program for you is to research each school carefully. Make sure you read the reviews and compare the cost of each program. You should also make sure the program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP). Once you have narrowed down your choices, take the time to visit each school and speak with an admissions counselor. This is the best way to get a feel for the program and decide if it’s right for you.