How to Become a Medical Assistant

With a projected employment of 565,000 workers in the next eight years, medical assistants are one of the fastest growing occupations. Becoming a medical assistant is an important decision. It requires someone who can multitask, complete medical histories, perform routine tasks and more. Becoming a medical assistant also offers great opportunities for career advancement.

To become a medical assistant you will need medical assistant training. Medical assistant schooling is typically completed at a community college or through vocational training. Whether you are a student out of high school or someone who is mid-career and wants to change their career, medical assistant training is extremely flexible. There are options to take classes in the morning, or at night, or online, to fit even the busiest of schedules. After completion of a one-year program you will receive a diploma and after the completion of a two-year program you will receive an associate degree.

During your time at medical assistant training you will take courses that cover anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, just to name a few. In addition to learning how to take care of patients, you will learn transcription, accounting processes and insurance processing. Students will learn lab techniques, how to administer medications, first aid, medical law and more. If you are taking an accredited program you will have the opportunity to intern and get real-world experience.

After graduation it is important to get certified as a medical assistant. Certification is not required, but could help set you apart from others when looking for a full time position as a medical assistant. If you choose to become certified you will likely take the Certified Medical Assistant Exam. Passing this exam offers prestige and means you have been credentialed through the American Association of Medical Assistants. Another certification students can receive is the American Medical technologists certification. This certification allows medical assistant training students to become Registered Medical Assistants. Having one of these certifications will make the job hunt easier for you.

Once you have graduated and are certified, it is time to find a job and a career as a medical assistant. Using E-Hired is the perfect place to begin your career search. You can search for medical assistant positions anywhere in the United States.

About E-Hired

E-Hired is a web-based employment platform used by both employers and candidates to secure employment and fill open positions. Additionally, E-Hired offers monthly subscription services dedicated to the vocational school industry aimed at assisting with admissions, retention, career services and accreditation with gainful employment action plans. E-Hired is an industry partner with the United States Department of Education recognized accrediting organizations, Middle States Commission.