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Medical assistants can also choose to specialize, as some schools offer certificates in either clinical or administrative assisting. The longer track of the associate degree allows for more advanced medical training and can be used as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree. A diploma or certificate can usually be obtained in a year or so, while an associate degree can be earned in about two years. Most are offered at community colleges and vocational schools, and award a certificate, diploma or associate degree upon completion. There are many accredited postsecondary medical assisting programs. Though the bare minimum is a high school diploma or equivalent, medical assistants who earn a degree or certification through a postsecondary program dedicated to medical assisting might find it easier to obtain employment.
#ON THE JOB TRAINING MEDICAL ASSISTANT HOW TO#
For the aspiring medical assistant, below is a step-by-step look at how to start a career.Ī medical assistant must obtain the requisite education before moving into an entry-level job. Show More Steps to Becoming a Medical Assistantīecoming a medical assistant is a three-step process that includes education, experience and training, and certification.
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However, being certified can improve job prospects, as it verifies that one has acquired essential skills and knowledge.
#ON THE JOB TRAINING MEDICAL ASSISTANT LICENSE#
Medical assistants do not need a license or certification. Most medical assistants possess a postsecondary certificate or diploma, which can be obtained from a vocational school or community college. There are no formal educational requirements to become a medical assistant, although a high school diploma is usually needed. The second primary role is to provide administrative support by filling out paperwork, managing correspondence and billing, updating patient records, answering phone calls and scheduling medical appointments. Medical assistants also act as patient liaisons, ensuring that patients feel comfortable at all times and explaining the uses of medications or physicians' instructions to patients and their loved ones. This clinical support is done under the direct supervision of a doctor or other medical professional. This typically includes doing routine medical tasks, such as taking patients' vital signs, recording their medical histories, administering drugs, prepping exam rooms, assisting during basic exams, drawing blood, and removing sutures. One is to provide clinical support to doctors and physicians. Medical assistants have two primary roles.
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