Basically, a medical assistant is someone who provides medical and administrative assistance to both doctors and nurses. In many cases, they work in doctor’s offices, but some also work in hospitals as well. Because of all the jobs available, becoming a medical assistant is a career choice that is very versatile.

The Education

Before you are able to take certified medical assistant jobs, you will need to have the proper education and you’ll also need to pass the certification exam as well. There are two different programs available if you want to become a medical assistant. You can take a one year certificate program or you can get your associate’s degree in two years. Some of the classes you will be required to take include first aid, math, science, medical terminology, and medical billing. Once you have completed the program, then you can sign up for the exam. This exam is available three times each year and once you are certified, you’ll have to renew your certification every five years.

The Duties of a CMA

You may be wondering what duties you’ll have when you take certified medical assistant jobs. There are a variety of tasks that you may be responsible for. Your duties may include keeping medical records, checking in the patients, filing charts, and taking the vital signs of patients. In some cases you may be required to do insurance coding, medical billing tasks, and give shots to patients. In most cases, medical assistants work a 40 hour week. Depending on where you work your hours may vary. If you work in a doctor’s office, you’ll probably have more regular hours, but certified medical assistant jobs in a hospital may require different hours.

The Salary

Before choosing to become a medical assistant, you may be interested in the salary that is usually made at certified medical assistant jobs. In most cases, the salary on an annual basis varies between $22,000 and $35,000. Of course, not only do you have a good salary, but if you are working full time, you probably will have other benefits, such as health insurance.

Finding a Job

You’ll find that this job field is growing and it is predicted to grow in the future as well. Once you become certified, you’ll want to find good certified medical assistant jobs. To help you find an excellent job, here are a few tips that can be helpful.

-          Tip #1 – Check with Career Services – More than likely the educational facility where you got your education has a career services office. It is a good idea to check with them if you are looking for a job when you are finished with your training. This department will be able to help you find local opportunities, so take advantage of this if it is available at your educational institution.

-          Tip #2 – Check with Local Health Care Providers – Another way that you can find certified medical assistant jobs is to check with local health care providers. Find out about hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices in your area. Inquire with them to see if they are currently hiring.

-          Tip #3 – Join the American Association of Medical Assistants – It’s also a good idea to join the American Association of Medical Assistants. They provide networking for professionals in this field. If you network with those you know through this association, you may find out about jobs that haven’t been posted to the public yet.

A career as a medical assistant is definitely a promising one. It doesn’t take long to finish your education and the job outlook is excellent. This is a great career choice to consider, especially if you enjoy working with people.