If you’re considering a career in Medical Assisting but are not sure if it’s right for you we’ll help answer your questions. All the information provided below is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics about the Medical Assisting Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Pay and Job Growth
Medical Assistants median pay is $29,370 per year and has a Job Outlook growth of 29%.
What Does a Medical Assistant Do?
Medical Assistants are in charge of completing administrative and clinical tasks in the offices of doctors and health practitioners. Medical Assisting encompasses multiple duties such as taking and recording patient history and personal information, taking vital signs, helping with the examining of patients, applying injections, scheduling patient appointments and preparing blood for laboratory tests. Medical assistants are in charge of taking and recording patient information; the most important aspect of this responsibility is keeping patient information confidential. A patient’s medical history can only be discussed with the medical personnel involved with treating the patient.
Clinical, Administrative, Ophthalmic or Podiatric?
Clinical Medical Assistants deal with laboratory tests, disposing of contaminated or hazardous supply, and sterilizing equipment. They may instruct patients about the proper steps of treatment designated by the doctor. Clinical medical assistants may also prepare patients for x-rays, removal of stitches, drawing of blood or changing of garments.
Administrative Medical Assistants fill out insurance forms or update patient’s medical information. They often deal with the front desk tasks of a physician’s office. Such as, answering the phone, scheduling appointments and welcoming patients. Some may be in charge of replenishing and stocking supply.
Ophthalmic medical assistants and Optometric assistants help and assist ophthalmologists and Optometrists. They may order necessary supplies, such as contact lenses and glasses. They show and instruct patients on how to properly care for their eyes while using contact lenses. Ophthalmic assistants may also assist in surgery.
Podiatric Medical Assistants work with podiatrists in the casting of feet, developing x-rays and assisting during surgery.
Most medical assistants work full-time which is a contrary trend to the many jobs that are lowering their number of full time employees. Many medical assistants may work night or weekend shifts that are left open in many medical offices.
How to Become a Medical Assistant
By definition Medical Assisting does not require a specific degree but in past years most employers are only hiring medical assistants from postsecondary education programs. Most of these programs are offered through vocational schools, community colleges, technical schools or some universities. These programs lead to certifications and diplomas that ensure employers a certain level of experience and knowledge. These programs teach students the basics from taking x-rays to giving injections, skills that are crucial for a successful career in Medical Assisting. Florida Technical College offers a Medical Assistant Associate of Science Degree Program. In the program students learn anatomy & physiology, healthcare information processing, pharmacology and lab procedures, among other courses. If you want a career in Medical Assisting and want to graduate with 160 hours of practical experience, give us a call. Financial Aid is available for those who qualify; at Florida Technical College we are committed to your success in your new Medical Assisting career.
