Medical Assistant Certification
Medical assistants do everything from managing the front office, to assisting physicians with clinical procedures. The amount of responsibility given to a medical assistant will alter according to their level of experience.
So, what are medical assistants (also
known as CMAs) typically required to do? And can you get a job in this
field even if you don't have any prior experience? Let's find out!
Job Description
Typically,
a CMA will work in a medical office, but some work in clinics or
hospitals. They often find employment with a family practice physician
or internist.
A medical assistant helps the doctors and nurses
with a variety of tasks. They can work in both a clinical and
administrative capacity. Administrative duties possibly could include
scheduling appointments, signing patients in and handling basic billing
issues. Clinical job duties might entail preparing the exam room and
working directly with patients.
Special Training
As a CMA
you can work in any medical office. However if you desire to take your
skills to the next degree you may want to acquire some additional
qualifications. These special procedures could include drawing blood,
taking minor x-rays and monitoring EKGs.
Typically, these
procedures necessitate supplementary education. You may be required to
complete an exam. The more qualifications you possess, the better your
job will be and you'll be on track to making even more money. The more
money the better, right?
Podiatric and Optometric Specialties
Many
MAs prefer to work for podiatrists or optometrists. More training may
be necessary to work in one of these specialties. As an example,
clinical medical assistants must be well-educated about the anatomy of
the foot in order to work with a podiatrist.A good understanding of the
human eye will help you if you work for an optometrist. They will help
patients with eye exams, coach patients on the use of contact lenses and
handle the sales of eyeglasses.
Training & Certification
In
order to compete in today's workforce you will want to earn your
certification. This requires a bit of training, but don't be anxious,
you can get the training you need in as little as 6 months. When looking
for a training program make sure the school is accredited and has a
high graduation rate. You should also look for a school that works with
your schedule. If you work full time it will probably be best to enroll
in a night school or one that meets on the weekends.
The next
step is to take the American Association of Medical Assistants test
(also called the AAMA exam). when you pass you'll be certified! Now that
you are a certified MA your empoyer will feel more comfortable giving
you added responsibilities, and you might even get a raise!
Not
only are CMAs a valuable part of the medical office, they also serve the
community by helping people on a daily basis. Whether you work in an
administrative or clinical capacity, you will never be bored. If you're
interested in this career, don't hesitate to find a school near you and
start your education now!
Medical Assistant Certification