How Much Salary Does a Medical Assistant Make?

Medical assistants are vital members of the healthcare team, providing support to doctors and other medical staff. If you’re considering a career in medical assisting, you might be wondering how much you can expect to earn. Here’s a look at medical assistant salaries across the United States

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Introduction

Medical assistants perform many important administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, and other healthcare facilities. They are a vital part of the healthcare team, and their duties can vary depending on the size and type of facility in which they work. In larger facilities, medical assistants may be responsible for a specific area such as billing or insurance processing. In smaller practices, they may perform a variety of tasks.

Most medical assistants have at least a high school diploma, although some have completed postsecondary education programs. Although not required, certification can demonstrate competence and may help lead to employment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical assistants earned a median annual salary of $34,800 in 2019. Here is some additional information about medical assistant salaries from the BLS:

Medical Assistant Job Description

Medical assistants are allied health professionals responsible for various clinical and administrative tasks in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They perform a wide range of functions that may include taking and recording medical histories, measuring patients’ vital signs, administering medications and injections, helping to remove sutures, dressing wounds, and performing basic laboratory tests.

Medical assistants must be able to multitask effectively and work well under pressure. They must have good communication skills and be able to interact professionally with patients, families, and other members of the healthcare team. They must also have good organizational skills and be detail-oriented.

Most medical assistants have at least a high school diploma or equivalent; however, some positions may require postsecondary education or formal training. Many medical assistants complete certification programs that typically last about a year. Certification is not required for all positions but may be preferred by some employers.

Medical Assistant Training

Medical assistants are multi-skilled health professionals specifically trained to work in outpatient facilities such as medical offices and clinics. They perform both clinical and administrative duties that include, but are not limited to, taking and recording patient medical histories, measuring patients’ vital signs, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood and administering medications as directed by physicians. Depending on the size and type of facility they work in, medical assistants may also be responsible for scheduling appointments, answering telephones, handling correspondence, billing and coding insurance forms.

The duties of a medical assistant are generally divided into two categories: clinical and administrative. Clinical duties involve direct patient care and include tasks such as taking vital signs, measuring blood pressure, drawing blood, administering medications and vaccinations as directed by a physician. Administrative duties generally involve office work such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, handling correspondence and billing insurance companies.

While most medical assistants have at least a high school diploma or equivalent GED certificate, some positions may require formal training from an accredited medical assistant program. Medical assistant programs typically last between one and two years and lead to a certificate or diploma. Some community colleges offer associate degree programs in medical assisting.

Most states do not require certification for medical assistants; however, many employers prefer or require certification as evidence of training and competence. Certification is available from several organizations including the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), the National Healthcare Association (NHA) and the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Certification typically requires successful completion of an accredited medical assisting program and passing a comprehensive exam.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS),medical assistants held about 634,800 jobs in 2016. The majority of positions were in doctors’ offices; however, employment was also expected to grow in hospitals, outpatient care centers, nursing homes and other health care facilities. Job prospects should be good for those who complete an accredited training program and earn certification from a professional organization such as the AAMA or NHA

Medical Assistant Certification

Medical assistants are unlicensed personnel who perform routine administrative and clinical tasks in hospitals, clinics, and physician offices. They work under the supervision of licensed medical personnel, such as physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. Although most medical assistants have completed postsecondary education, some states allow them to begin working after completing on-the-job training. Many states have certification programs for medical assistants.

Medical Assistant Salary

In the United States, the median salary for a medical assistant is $16.17 per hour. This means that half of all medical assistants earn less than this amount and half earn more. The top 10% of earners make more than $21.65 per hour, while the bottom 10% make less than $11.64 per hour.

Medical Assistant Job Outlook

Medical assistants are in demand and the job outlook is positive. The median salary for medical assistants was $34,800 in 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Medical assistants with certification may earn a higher salary. The job outlook for medical assistants is expected to grow by 29% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the BLS.

Medical Assistant Career Paths

Medical assistants are in high demand and the job outlook is favorable. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment of medical assistants will grow by 23 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing number of aging baby boomers who are staying active and requiring more medical care.

There are many different career paths a medical assistant can take. Some medical assistants choose to specialize in a certain area, such as pediatrics or optometry. Others may choose to work in a hospital setting or a private physician’s office. Some medical assistants may also choose to become certified, which can lead to higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement.

No matter which career path you choose, you can be sure that you will be making a difference in the lives of others.

Frequently Asked Questions about Medical Assistants

Medical assistants are in high demand due to the increasing need for medical care in the U.S. With an aging population and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act medical assistants are needed now more than ever. If you’re thinking about becoming a medical assistant, you probably have some questions about the profession. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about medical assistants.

What does a medical assistant do?
A medical assistant is a versatile allied health professional that performs both clinical and administrative duties in a healthcare setting. Clinical duties may include taking patient histories and vital signs, preparing patients for examination, assisting with procedures, and collecting and processing laboratory specimens. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records billing and coding insurance forms, and handling correspondence.

How much does a medical assistant make?
Medical assistants earn a median salary of $30,590 per year, or $14.68 per hour according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary varies based on experience, education, geographic location, and type of employer.

How do I become a medical assistant?
There are several ways to become a medical assistant. Some states require certification or licensure, while others do not. The best way to find out how to become a medical assistant in your state is to contact your state’s Board of Medical Examiners or Department of Health for more information.

10 Best Cities for Medical Assistants

Medical assistants are in demand in many cities across the United States. The following are 10 of the best cities for medical assistants, based on job openings, average salary, and quality of life:

1. NYC
2. Los Angeles, CA
3. Chicago, IL
4. Houston, TX
5. Phoenix, AZ
6. Philadelphia, PA
7. San Antonio, TX
8. San Diego, CA
9. Dallas, TX
10. Indianapolis, IN

Conclusion

In conclusion, medical assistants can expect to earn a salary that is commensurate with their experience and education. With the right training and experience, medical assistants can earn a good salary and enjoy job security in a growing field.