Medical Assistant

Medical assistants play a vital role in the healthcare field by performing a variety of administrative and clinical tasks to support the work of physicians and other medical professionals. They are often the first point of contact for patients and play a key role in providing customer service and ensuring that medical office operations run smoothly.

Medical assistants typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, although some may have completed postsecondary education, and must complete a brief period of on-the-job training. Most states do not require certification for medical assistants, but many employers prefer to hire those who have been certified by a professional organization, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants, The National Healthcare Association(NHA) and the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).

The duties of medical assistants vary depending on the size and type of healthcare facility in which they work, but they typically include a combination of administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and maintaining medical records, and clinical tasks, such as taking patient vital signs and assisting with minor medical procedures. In larger facilities, medical assistants may be assigned to a specific department, such as pediatrics or surgery, or may rotate through a variety of departments.

The healthcare field is rapidly changing, and medical assistants must be adaptable and able to keep up with new technologies and treatments. They must be able to work well under pressure, as they often have to juggle multiple tasks at once. With the aging of the baby boomer generation and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, the demand for medical assistants is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations over the next decade.

What Does a Medical Assistant Do on a Day-to-Day Basis?

Medical assistants perform a variety of administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, and other health practitioners running smoothly. 

Despite the fact that medical assistant responsibilities vary from office to office, there are many core responsibilities that are essential to most medical assistants. 

On a typical day, a medical assistant might be responsible for greeting patients, scheduling appointments, answering phones, handling correspondence, coding insurance forms, and sterilizing equipment. 

Medical assistants also often take and record patients’ vital signs, prepare them for examination, and collect and process lab specimens. In some states, medical assistants may also be allowed to administer medications and perform basic laboratory tests.

One of the most important roles of a medical assistant is to act as a liaison between the doctor and the patient. They will oftentimes take down initial medical histories and help to explain procedures or treatments to patients. They also play a vital role in helping to schedule appointments and tests, and keeping track of medical records.

In addition to their patient-facing duties, medical assistants also handle a lot of the behind-the-scenes work in a doctor’s office. This can include stocking supplies, taking inventory, ordering new supplies, and cleaning equipment.

What is Expected Medical Assistants

Medical assistants must have excellent communication skills, as they often act as a liaison between patients and doctors. They must be able to clearly and effectively communicate medical information. They must also be detail-oriented and organized, as they are responsible for managing a large volume of medical paperwork.

Medical assistants must be able to work well under pressure, as they often have to juggle multiple tasks at once. They must be able to think on their feet and make quick decisions. They must also be compassionate and empathetic, as they deal with sick and injured patients on a daily basis.

How to Become a Medical Assistant

If you are interested in a career as a medical assistant, there are many things to consider. First, you will need to complete an approved medical assistant program. This program will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in this field. For one of the Best Medical Assistant Programs in San Diego CLICK HERE

Once you have completed your medical assistant program, you will need to take and pass the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. This exam is administered by the National Center of Competency Testing (NCCT). After passing the exam, you will become a certified medical assistant.

If you are interested in working in a specific type of medical office, you may want to pursue certification in that area. For example, many medical assistants choose to become certified in medical coding or medical billing. This certification can make you more attractive to potential employers.

The medical assistant field is growing rapidly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of medical assistants will grow 23 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing demand for healthcare services as the population ages.

If you are interested in a career as a medical assistant, now is the time to get started. With the right training and certification, you can be on your way to a rewarding and fulfilling career in the medical field. 

Our Medical Assistant Program at Western Medical Training Center is one of the fastest and affordable Medical Assistant Program in San Diego. We have 2 different schedules to accommodate your schedule, Morning and evening. Our Tuition is only $2499 for BOTH Administrative and Clinical training. Don’t get fooled by other schools who only teach you half of what you need to learn to be a successful Medical Assistant. Tell me more about the Medical Assistant Program at Western Medical Training Center