What You Need to Know About a Medical Assistant Specialty

Considering a medical assistant specialty? Get the facts about what you need to know before making a decision.

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What is a medical assistant specialty?

medical assistant specialties are credentials earned by Medical assistants who have completed additional training in a particular area of medical assisting. These specialties are not required for entry-level positions, but they may give Medical Assistants a competitive advantage when seeking employment or promotions.

There are several different medical assistant specialty areas, each with its own set of skills and knowledge. Some common medical assistant specialties include:

-Pediatric medical assistant
-Obstetric and gynecologic medical assistant
-Cardiology medical assistant
-Ophthalmology medical assistant
-Dermatology medical assistant

Some medical assistants may also choose to earn certified MA credentials in multiple areas, depending on their career goals. For example, a certified MA who works in a pediatrician’s office may also choose to earn credentialing in obstetrics and gynecology so that they can be cross-trained to work in both pediatrics and OB/GYN.

What are the different medical assistant specialties?

There are many different medical assistant specialties, and the duties of each medical assistant may vary depending on their chosen specialty. Some of the most common medical assistant specialties include:

-Pediatric medical assistants work with children in doctor’s offices, clinics, and hospitals. They may help with tasks such as taking patient histories, measuring vital signs, giving immunizations, and scheduling appointments.

-Ophthalmic medical assistants work with patients who have diseases or disorders of the eye. They may help with tasks such as measuring vision, performing visual field tests, and giving eye injections.

-Dermatology medical assistants work with patients who have diseases or disorders of the skin. They may help with tasks such as taking patient histories, performing skin exams, and preparing patients for procedures.

-Orthopedic medical assistants work with patients who have musculoskeletal problems. They may help with tasks such as casting and splinting, providing rehabilitation exercises, and fitting prosthetic devices.

What are the duties of a medical assistant with a specialty?

A medical assistant with a specialty is a healthcare professional who has undergone training in a specific area of medicine, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or obstetrics/gynecology. Medical assistants with specialties typically have more responsibility than those without, and their duties may include tasks such as taking patient medical histories, performing physical examinations, and assisting with diagnostic tests and procedures.

How do I choose the right medical assistant specialty for me?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a medical assistant specialty. One is your career goals. Do you see yourself working in a hospital or clinic setting? If so, you might want to consider a specialty that will prepare you for that environment, such as medical assisting.

Another thing to consider is your personal preferences. Do you prefer working with children or adults? Do you prefer working in a fast-paced environment or one that is more relaxed? These are all important factors to consider when choosing a medical assistant specialty.

Once you have considered your career goals and personal preferences, you can start looking at different medical assistant specialties and choosing the one that is right for you.

What is the job outlook for medical assistants with a specialty?

There is no one answer to this question as the job outlook for medical assistants with a specialty will vary depending on the specific field in which they work. However, in general, medical assistants with a specialty are in high demand and the outlook for this career is positive.

What are the salary expectations for medical assistants with a specialty?

While the median salary for all medical assistants was $33,610 in 2018, those with a specialty earned a slightly higher wage, at $35,760. The top 10% of earners in this field made more than $49,540, while the bottom 10% earned less than $23,710.

What are the educational requirements for medical assistants with a specialty?

There are several medical assistant specialties that require additional education beyond a high school diploma or GED. Some of these specialties include:
-Cardiology
-Oncology
-Ophthalmology
-Optometry
-Podiatry
-Surgery

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a medical assistant with a specialty, you will need to complete an accredited medical assistant program. Once you have completed your training, you will be required to take and pass a certification exam specific to your chosen specialty.

What are the certification requirements for medical assistants with a specialty?

There are a few different routes that medical assistants can take to become certified in their specialty. The most common method is to take a certification exam through an accredited organization, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants or the National Healthcare Association. Some medical assistants choose to become certified through on-the-job training programs, while others may complete coursework at a community college or vocational school.

What are the professional development opportunities for medical assistants with a specialty?

Medical assistants with a specialty certification may have opportunities to take on additional responsibilities in their workplace. They may also be able to find employment in settings that specialize in the care of patients with a particular condition or disease. Professional development opportunities for medical assistants with a specialty can include:

-Pursuing advanced education to become a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant
-Teaching other medical assistants about their specialty area
-Working as a consultant to healthcare facilities or organizations
-Conducting research on new treatments or procedures related to their specialty

What are the challenges of working as a medical assistant with a specialty?

Medical assistants who have a specialty may find that they face some unique challenges in their work. They may need to be able to work with a wide range of patients, each with their own specific needs. They may also need to be able to keep up with the latest advances in their field and be able to adapt to new technologies.