Taking a Closer Look at Medical Assisting
Posted On October 23,2020
When people think of healthcare professionals, they often picture a doctor or a nurse. One allied healthcare professional that sometimes gets overlooked is a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA). Medical assistants play a unique role in the medical field as they are competent, cross-trained individuals who can perform a multitude of tasks from administrative to clinical, making them a vital member of any healthcare team.
Medical Assistants Spend Less Time in School
If you’re wanting to go back to school, but can’t commit to a four-year degree, medical assisting is an excellent choice. Medical assisting is one of the shortest training programs available, making it a perfect fit for those who really need to earn their certificate and start making money sooner than later.
Medical Assisting Offers Schedule Flexibility
From class schedules to work schedules, you might be surprised to learn that there’s a healthcare career that offers family friendly, flexible scheduling. For those interested in becoming a medical assistant but are needing flexible classes, medical assisting classes can almost always be scheduled to accommodate work or family obligations.
Unlike other healthcare professionals who often work weekends or overnight shifts, many medical assistants appreciate that they often work standard office hours, making it much easier to plan and schedule their lives accordingly.
Demand for Medical Assistants is on the Rise
The job outlook for medical assistants remains stable and promising. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth for medical assisting is projected to grow 23 percent from now to 2028, which is must faster than average for occupations.
In addition to job growth continuing to rise, so is the pay scale for medical assistants. In 2015, the median annual pay for an MA was approximately $30,590 and even higher in some states, where medical assistants can make as much as $22 per hour.
Learn More about our CMA ProgramCertification Will Increase Your Job Opportunities
While it’s true that becoming a medical assistant through on-the-job training may be possible in some states, many employers won’t hire a medical assistant that isn’t certified. Selecting a medical assisting program that offers the opportunity to sit for the CMA exam (AAMA-American Association of Medical Assistants) is a wise decision, as becoming certified is highly recommended for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to:
- Being more employable than non-certified assistants.
- Earning a higher pay than non-certified assistants.
- More choices when it comes to selecting shifts.
- Demonstrating professional excellence as well as showing your dedication to the profession of medical assisting
- Being more competent at your job because of the quality of your training and education.
- Gives patients and co-workers more trust and reassurance as they believe in your training and expertise.
- It’s a requirement in some states to be certified in order to even be eligible for employment.
Medical Assistants Make a Difference
Last but not least, becoming a medical assistant is a fulfilling and rewarding career you can be proud of because you’re making a real impact on the lives of others. As a medical assistant you have the opportunity to help others in their time of need and that gives a sense of accomplishment and purpose. You aren’t just working a regular job; you’re making a real difference.
If you’re ready to make a dramatic change in your life for the better, contact Athena Career Academy today for more information about our accredited medical assistant program. Our faculty will set you up for success. Call to enroll now!
