A medical assistant is an invaluable staff member at a health-care facility. The medical assistant may go from working one-on-one with patients to handling clerical tasks, such as billing and coding. Although most states do not require a medical assistant to be licensed or certified, many employers prefer and even require that medical assistants be nationally certified. This process can take a few months or up to two years to complete, and varies from state to state. The average salary for medical assistants is $28,860 a year, with medical assistants on the high end earning over $40,000.
A medical assistant license is commonly referred to as certification in the health-care community. Although not required in most states, certification as a medical assistant is preferred by many employers. Several organizations offer medical assistant certification, including the American Association of Medical Assistants; National Healthcareer Association; National Center for Competency Testing; and American Medical Technologists.
Although some states and employers will provide on-the-job-training, formal education is required to become a certified medical assistant. States differ, however, in what kinds of programs are required. An associate degree is necessary in states such as Alabama and Arkansas, for example. Alaska's program results in a certificate upon successful completion, and California colleges issue a diploma in medical assisting. Courses are provided in both online and classroom settings. Externships ranging from 180 to 240 hours are a standard part of programs.
Courses leading to certification as a medical assistant are related to clerical tasks and patient care. Classes in medical terminology, pharmacology, medical coding and billing, as well as anatomy, are the norm. Learning to perform basic diagnostic testing procedures, prevent the spread of infection in a health-care facility, and comply with state, local and federal regulations are also typical of training programs.
Job Requirements and Duties
The ability to interact with patients in a professional and pleasant manner is a must for a medical assistant. Office duties, such as bookkeeping and coding health records, are also part of the job. Strong communication skills and knowledge of medical terminology are required. Being able to recognize medical instruments by name and appearance is also a necessity. Advanced skills include administering injections, performing basic diagnostic tests and taking X-rays.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook: How to Become a Medical Assistant
- American Association of Medical Assistants: Find a CAAHEP or ABHES Accredited Program Near You
- Daytona State College: Medical Assisting Program
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs: CAAHEP Accredited Program Search
- Deleware Technical Community College: Medical Assistant Associate Degree Program
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