Common Interview Questions You Can Expect as a Medical Assistant
Posted On December 27,2021
Graduates from a medical assisting program are walking into a strong job market. Employment of medical assistants is expected to grow 19% from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. It’s worth noting that this is a rate much faster than average compared to any other occupation.
If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant, here are some common interview questions and answers you’ll want to prepare for now so you can nail your interviews later on.
#1. Tell Me a Little About Yourself
This is a common interview question that can be difficult to answer if you aren’t prepared for it. Rather than talk about your hobbies or personal traits, try to keep your answer focused on your education and work experience.
Example answer: “I recently completed the medical assisting program at Athena Career Academy, where I learned both clinical and administrative skills, including taking vital signs, drawing blood, scheduling patient appointments, and assisting the physician in physical exams and other procedures.”
#2. What are Your Strengths?
Try not to brag when answering this question, but rather discuss the areas you feel most confident in. The strengths you describe should be relevant to the medical assisting field.
Example answer: “I excel in time-management, working as a team player, and having excellent communication skills which I feel make a great match for the medical assisting profession.”
#3. What are Your Weaknesses?
When answering this question be careful not to put yourself down or mention you are bad at something but instead describe an area you can improve on. You can also use this as an opportunity to discuss soft skills that you’ve improved on over time.
Example answer: “I dislike leaving tasks incomplete, so I often strive to complete my work ahead of the deadline.”
Start your CMA#4. Describe a Challenging Position You’ve Been in Professorially, and How You Handled It?
Make sure to answer this one with an honest story that describes a difficult situation in which you handled it with professionalism. This is an opportunity to display your problem-solving, as well as compassion and empathy.
Example answer: “During my internship, I had to draw blood on a patient who was really nervous. I was able to calm them down and successfully perform the blood draw by talking to them and making them feel at ease.”
#5. How Do You Protect the Rights and Confidentiality of Patients?
Make sure to study HIPAA protocol before your interview, as it’s a crucial part of a medical assistant’s job. Your answer should demonstrate the importance of keeping patient rights and confidentiality protected no matter what.
Example answer: “I was trained on HIPAA protocol during my medical assisting program. During my internship I was careful to maintain patient privacy by ensuring patient charts were kept out of view of others and closing the door prior to any discussions taking place.”
#6. Why Do You Want to Work Here?
It’s very important to research a company before you interview with them. If you’re asked this question, make sure to give a specific answer about what you can bring to their company. Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission and values. This information is often found in the “About” section on their website.
Example answer: “This pediatric office would be a great fit for me because I enjoy working with children.”
Ready to Get Started?
Interested in becoming a medical assistant and want to learn more about this exciting and rewarding career field? Take hold of a competitive advantage by enrolling in Athena Career Academy’s high quality medical assisting program today. We’d love to give you a tour of our campus. Let’s schedule one today!