Becoming a Medical Assistant (MA) is a fulfilling career that allows you to help patients and work in a fast-paced environment. But how do you get started? In this post, we'll guide you on how to become an MA, including education, certification, and job outlook.
A Medical Assistant (MA) performs administrative and clinical tasks in a medical setting. They provide direct patient care and perform various clinical functions, such as ECG, phlebotomy, and medication administration, all while prioritizing patient safety and maintaining strict confidentiality. Their job duties vary with the location, specialty, and experience. Here’s what a MA usually does:
What's great about being an MA is that it allows you to help people and make a difference in their lives. Whether you're assisting with a patient's care, helping to run a medical office, or supporting medical research, your work can have a positive impact on the lives of many people.
The requirements for MA certification vary by state in the United States. Some states do not require certification to work as an MA, but employers may require you to have it. Other states have specific requirements for certification or registration. Here are some examples:
1. Educational Requirements - There are no formal education requirements for becoming a MA in most states. But, most employers prefer to hire MAs who graduate from the following programs:
If you have no time or resources to enroll in training programs, you can learn the duties of an MA on the job as long as you have an HS diploma or equivalent. If you’re a high school student interested in this career, you should take courses in biology, chemistry, and anatomy. Business and computer courses will also be helpful.
2. Certification Requirements - Most states do not require a certification to work as a MA, but employers may prefer to hire certified MAs. Here are some certifying organizations that the National Commission for Certifying Agencies accredits:
There may be states that require you to complete an accredited program, pass a national certification exam, or both to work as a MA. California, Washington, and Louisiana are some of these states. If you're interested in becoming a MA, it's a good idea to research the requirements in your specific state or region. You can also check with the certifying agencies for information on certification requirements and resources.
3. Other requirements - Some training providers and employers may require you to pass or present requirements which include:
It is always best to check the specific requirements that you need to provide since it varies depending on the program, school, employer, or location.
To become an MA, you need to follow a series of steps. Here are the general steps involved in becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA):
It's important to note that the specific requirements and steps may vary depending on the state and the certifying organization. It is best to refer to reputable sources such as the AAMA or the official websites of accredited MA programs for the most accurate and latest information.
You can work as a MA in various healthcare settings, including:
It's important to note that the specific work settings for you may vary based on factors such as your location, employer preferences, and the scope of practice allowed by local regulations.
MAs had a mean annual wage of $40,700, with a mean hourly wage of $19.57 in May 2022. There is a 16 percent increase in employment of MAs from 2021 to 2031, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is about 123,000 job openings each year, on average.
In addition to the potential for job growth and salary, you also have opportunities for career advancement as a MA. With additional education and certification, you can move into roles such as:
Embarking on the journey to becoming a MA opens up a world of opportunities in the healthcare field. Whether you're drawn to the administrative side or the clinical aspect, the path to becoming a MA is with growth and potential. So take the leap, follow your passion, and begin your exciting journey to become a valued member of the healthcare team as a MA. Start your journey now with Dreambound!
Fel is a student support representative who guides enrollees to the right program and answers their queries. She's committed to helping students and takes pride in her work. In her free time, she enjoys sightseeing and hanging out with loved ones.