How to Become a Medical Assistant
Contents
If you want to know how to become a medical assistant then you need to read this blog post. It will tell you everything you need to know about becoming a medical assistant from what qualifications you need, to what the job entails.
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Introduction
Medical assistants are important members of the healthcare team who perform a variety of tasks to keep the offices of doctors and other medical professionals running smoothly. If you’re considering a career in medical assisting, this guide will give you an overview of what you can expect, from job duties to education and training requirements.
What Does a medical assistant Do?
Medical Assistants are multi-skilled health professionals specifically trained to work in outpatient facilities such as medical offices and clinics. Their responsibilities vary depending on State law and the specific medical office or clinic where they are employed. However, most medical assistants perform both clinical and administrative duties, as well as assisting physicians with patient care. Clinical duties may include but are not limited to taking medical histories, recording vital signs, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood, and administering medications as directed by a physician. Administrative duties may include but are not limited to scheduling appointments, verifying insurance coverage, billing patients, maintaining medical records and transcribing physicians’ orders.
Medical assistants are typically responsible for a variety of tasks in the office including patient care, clinical tasks, administrative tasks, and assisting the physician. Because of their wide range of responsibilities, medical assistants must be able to multitask and be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. They must also have excellent communication skills as they will be interacting with patients on a daily basis.
Steps to Becoming a Medical Assistant
Becoming a medical assistant is a great way to start a career in healthcare. If you have a desire to help people and want to work in a fast-paced environment, then a career as a medical assistant may be right for you. Here are 5 steps to becoming a medical assistant:
1. Get your high school diploma or equivalent. Although not required, completing a medical assisting program at a vocational school, trade school or community college can give you an edge when applying for jobs.
2. Complete an accredited medical assisting program. Most programs take about one year to complete and include both classroom and clinical instruction.
3. Obtain certification as a medical assistant. Although not required in all states, employers typically prefer candidates who are certified. Certification can be obtained through organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants or the National Healthcare Association.
4. Pass a state-recognized exam, if required. Some states require medical assistants to pass an exam before they can begin working. Specific requirements vary by state, so it’s important to check with your state’s Board of Medicine for more information.
5. Find a job! Once you have completed all of the above steps, you’re ready to start your career as a medical assistant! You can search for open positions on job boards or contact healthcare facilities directly to inquire about available opportunities.
Education and Training
Education for medical assistants usually comes from postsecondary institutions such as community colleges, vocational schools, and technical colleges. Many of these programs lead to a certificate or a diploma, but some medical assistants earn an associate degree. Some states require certification or licensure for medical assistants, but certification is not required in all states.
There are many different types of training programs for medical assistants. Some programs last for as little as one semester, while others last up to two years. Most of the longer programs award an associate degree upon completion.
Certificate and diploma programs typically take one year or less to complete and may be offered by community colleges, technical schools, and vocational schools. These programs typically include courses in basic science, clinical procedures, patient care, and medical office procedures.
Associate degree programs in medical assisting usually take two years to complete and are offered by community colleges and technical schools. These programs include general education courses along with more specialized coursework in medical assisting.
Certification
In order to become a certified medical assistant, you will need to complete an accredited program and pass a certification exam. Once you have completed your training and passed the exam, you will be required to maintain your certification by completing continuing education credits.
Job Outlook
Medical assistants are in high demand, with an expected 29% increase in jobs from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The aging baby-boom generation is beginning to need more medical services for age-related health conditions, such as arthritis, vision problems, and Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, physicians will hire more medical assistants to perform routine administrative and clinical tasks so that they can see more patients.
Salary and Benefits
Most medical assistants start out making between $11 and $15 an hour. Experienced MAs can make up to $19 an hour. Your salary will depend on your experience, education, training, location, and the type of employer you work for.
Benefits are often included in MA employment packages. These may include health insurance dental insurance, paid vacations and holidays, and retirement plans.
Resources
Medical assistants are in high demand across the country. If you’re thinking about becoming a medical assistant, you’re likely wondering what the best route is for you. There are many ways to become a medical assistant, and the best option for you will depend on your individual circumstances.
Here are some resources to help you get started:
The American Association of Medical Assistants offers certification for medical assistants. To be eligible for certification, you must have completed an accredited medical assisting program and passed the AAMA Certification Exam.
The National Healthcare Association also offers certification for medical assistants. To be eligible for certification, you must have completed an accredited medical assisting program and passed the NHA Certified Medical Assistant Exam.
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) accredit medical assisting programs at the certificate, diploma, and associate degree levels. Many employers prefer or require candidates to have graduated from an accredited program.
If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant, these resources can help you get started. Talk to your guidance counselor or search online for more information about accredited programs in your area.
FAQs
How long does it take to become a medical assistant?
The length of time it takes to complete a medical assistant program depends on the type of program you choose. Some certificate programs can be completed in as little as six months, while associate degree programs generally take two years to finish.
Is there a demand for medical assistants?
Yes, the demand for medical assistants is expected to grow by 23% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is due in part to an aging population and an increase in the number of people with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.
What are some of the duties of a medical assistant?
Medical assistants perform a variety of duties, including taking and recording patient vital signs, updating patient medical histories, scheduling appointments and assisting with minor office surgeries.
What are some of the skills I need to be a medical assistant?
Some important skills for medical assistants include strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as detail-oriented and organized. Medical assistants must also be able to maintain confidentiality and work well under pressure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming a medical assistant is a great way to start a career in the medical field. With the right training and certification, you can be on your way to a rewarding career helping others.
