How Do I Become a Medical Assistant

If you are looking for a rewarding career within the medical field, consider becoming a medical assistant. The processes involved in becoming this type of assistant are not very lengthy. In fact, you can become one in as little as one to two years. If you have further questions in regards to “how do I become a medical assistant”, continue reading below.

The Life of a Medical Assistant

Before you decide to become a medical assistant, you should understand what is involved in this type of profession. On most days, you will be completing clinical tasks, as well as administrative duties. Generally, these duties will include answering the phone, making appointments, greeting patients, phoning in prescriptions to pharmacies, and more. When you are performing clinical duties, in most instances, these will always be performed under the supervision of a doctor or registered nurse. Some of the most common types of clinical tasks that you may perform include removing sutures, changing dressings, and performing post-surgical aftercare.

Becoming a Medical Assistant: Educational Requirements

Preparation to become this type of assistant can start as early as high school. It is best that you complete classes during this part of your life that relate to biology, chemistry, math, and any type of medical course. The more knowledge you have about the medical industry, the easier it will be for you to complete your formal education. In the United States (US), in order to become a medical assistant, you will need to obtain a one to two year college education at some type of post secondary school. Many people choose to complete their formal education to become this type of assistant at a vocational or community school. In addition to a formal education, you will most likely need some type of certification as well. If you want to become a medical assistant that draws blood from patients, most states will require that you have formal training in phlebotomy, such as obtaining a phlebotomy certificate. There is also a high possibility that you will have to obtain on the job training in order to become a medical assistant.

Salary and Job Outlook

In today’s society, the employment outlook for medical assistants is excellent and growing. You will find it very helpful to become part of a professional medical assistant organization, as this will help you network and find a job easily. During the 2000s, the average annual salary for a medical assistant was around $25,000. The exact requirements to become this type of assistant vary and are based on where you will be performing your services at. Always make sure you check to see which exact requirements you need to fulfill. Remember, if you obtain licensing or certification within one state as a medical assistant, you may have to become re-certified to perform the services in another state in the event that you move. You should also keep in mind that the length of time to become a vocational nurse is about the same as becoming a medical assistant, and vocational nurses tend to have a higher income.