The healthcare sector requires professionals with diverse skillsets. If you are great with people, have a knack for managerial skills and wish to work in an outpatient clinic or similar medical facilities, becoming a medical assistant could be a great career choice. The role of a medical assistant is an important one, and the job outlook is outstanding in the US. Below is an overview of medical assistant career and things worth knowing.
What does a medical assistant do?
Typically, medical assistants are responsible for both clinical and administrative tasks at clinics and hospitals. From taking details of patients, to maintaining, updating, and retrieving records, they do it all. They also manage patient appointments, prep patients for the appointment, and ensure that treatment rooms or appointment rooms are ready for use. As required, they may assist the primary physician in some of the tasks and examinations. All medical assistants are required to have a fair understanding of HIPAA regulations too, and they may have to draw blood and administer medications, when asked by the physician. In case of admin tasks, they may be in charge of management of inventory and keeping the clinic in motion.
How to become a medical assistant?
You need to complete an accredited medical assistant program to become a medical assistant. It is not same as becoming a nurse, and you can start your career almost immediately. You should have a high-school diploma, or bachelor’s degree for some jobs, while some clinics will pay more if you have relevant experience of working in a medical setting.
Things to know
There are many reasons why you may consider becoming a medical assistant. Firstly, it is among those jobs that don’t typically have odd working hours. For many students, waiting for years to become a surgeon is never a choice, but they wish to work in healthcare anyway. For them, the role of a medical assistant is just right. Note that you are expected to be empathetic, extremely kind and open to taking comments from physicians, because that will only enhance your work. Also, if you are looking for a course, check all the relevant details and make sure that the school is a known one.
As a medical assistant, you will be working directly with patients and may have to talk to their families from time to time. Ensure that you are kind with your words and actions.
