How to Become a Medical Assistant

What is a Medical Assistant?

MAs are a crucial part of the healthcare team. They collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients get top-notch care.

What Does A Medical Assistant Do

Clinical duties

• Taking and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature.
• Assisting physicians during examinations and minor procedures, notes the Northeast Technical Institute.
• Administering medications as directed by the physician and permitted by state law.
• Preparing and collecting laboratory specimens (e.g., blood, urine).
• Sterilizing instruments and maintaining clean examination rooms.
• Explaining treatment procedures and instructions to patients.

Administrative duties

• Scheduling appointments and managing patient calendars.
• Maintaining accurate patient records, both paper and electronic.
• Handling medical billing and insurance claims.
• Answering phones and directing patient inquiries.
• Managing office supplies and equipment.

So, if you have a passion for helping others, a career as an MA might be perfect for you. Not to mention that this career choice is ideal for those seeking job stability and security due to the growing demand.

What are the requirements to become a Medical Assistant?

In addition to good organizational skills and attention to detail, you will need to meet specific requirements to become a medical assistant. Although the rules can differ by state and employer, here are the requirements you’ll need to pass to become a medical assistant:

• Education: Most employers require MAs to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers might ask you to finish a proper medical assistant training program. 
• Certification: While certification was optional in the past, it is now mandatory to prove you’re skilled as an MA. The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential is offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and is recognized nationwide.
• Soft Skills: MAs must be excellent at talking to people. They work with patients, doctors, and staff every day. They should be organized. Paying close attention to details is essential for office and medical tasks. 
• Technical Skills: As an MA, you are also expected to be familiar with basic clinical instruments, billing and emailing software, medical software, and different operating systems.
• Physical Stamina: MAs might need to stand a lot and lift heavy things. Good physical stamina is essential to handle the physical demands of the job.

Step-by-step guide to becoming a medical assistant

We understand that the internet is flooded with numerous threads and complex information on how to become an MA; this is your easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Research

Start by researching the role of a medical assistant and the responsibilities involved. This will give you a better understanding of the career and help you decide if it is the right path.

Step 2: Education

You need a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED. This is essential for enrolling in medical assistant training programs.

Step 3: Medical Assistant Program

Enroll in a medical assistant training program. You can find these at trade schools, community colleges, or online. In these programs, you’ll do both class learning and hands-on training. They’ll teach you medical terms, how the body works, office stuff, and hands-on medical skills.

Step 4: Internship/Externship

Many MA programs include an internship or externship in a healthcare setting. This hands-on training is essential for learning the practical skills needed for the job.

Step 5: Obtain Certification

Obtaining a certification is essential and preferred by employers. You must pass the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam administered by the AAMA. Passing the certification exam signifies your readiness for the field and can open doors to more job opportunities

Step 6: Job Search

Once you have completed your training and obtained any necessary certifications, it’s time to start your job search. Look for job openings in hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, and other healthcare facilities. Networking and contacting healthcare professionals can also help you find job opportunities.

Step 7: Continuing Education

As an MA, it’s wise to keep learning about the newest stuff in healthcare. You can take extra classes or go to meetings to get better at what you do.

Different Medical Assistant training programs

There are several different training programs available for aspiring medical assistants. Here are some of the most common options:

• Certificate Programs: Certificate programs in medical assisting typically take 9 to 12 months to complete. These programs focus on providing students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to become medical assistants. Vocational schools and community colleges often offer certificate programs.
• Associate Degree Programs: Associate degree programs in medical assisting usually take 18 to 24 months to complete. These programs offer a more comprehensive education and may include additional coursework in medical ethics, pharmacology, and medical coding. Community colleges and technical schools typically offer associate degree programs.

But are you required to have a degree to become an MA? No. A degree is not mandatory to become a certified medical assistant.

• Online Programs: Online medical assistant programs offer flexibility and convenience for those who may not be able to attend traditional on-campus classes. These programs allow students to complete coursework online and typically include clinical training at approved local healthcare facilities.

Important factors when selecting a program:

• Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by agencies like the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
• Curriculum: Ensure the program covers both clinical and administrative skills.
• Program Length and Format: Consider the program’s duration and whether it offers full-time, part-time, or online options to fit your lifestyle.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Research tuition costs and inquire about available financial aid or scholarship opportunities.
• Externship/Clinical Experience: A good program will include opportunities for practical experience in a healthcare setting. 

NOTE: CCI Training Center’s Medical Assistant Training Programs check all the above-mentioned criteria.

What is the job outlook for Medical Assistants?

The job outlook for MAs is promising. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of MAs is projected to grow 15 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. More people need healthcare as the population is getting older, and not to mention, previous MAs are required to be replaced, leading to more jobs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to be an MA is a great job if you really care about healthcare and helping people. With the right schooling and training, you can have a good job that’s stable and secure. You can check out online programs or ask schools nearby, like CCI Training Center, to see how you can start your journey to become a medical assistant in the healthcare field. Good luck!