Key Takeaways

• Job Title: Medical Office Specialist (also called Medical Administrative Assistant)
• Average Salary in Minnesota: $51,380/year or $24.70/hour
• Education Requirement: High school diploma + postsecondary training
• Certification: Optional but recommended (e.g., CMAA)
• Training Duration: 6 to 12 months
• Program Cost: Starting around $3,000
• Training Resource: Dreambound

What Does a Medical Office Specialist Do?

Medical Office Specialists ensure efficient daily operations in healthcare settings by performing tasks such as:

• Managing and updating electronic health records (EHR)
• Scheduling patient appointments
• Verifying insurance and processing claims
• Handling phone calls and front desk duties
• Maintaining accurate and confidential documentation

This role is ideal for detail-oriented individuals with strong organizational and communication skills.

Where Do Medical Office Specialists Work?

In Minnesota, Medical Office Specialists are employed in a range of healthcare environments, including:

• Hospitals – Admissions, billing, and front desk
• Physician Offices – Appointment scheduling and EHR
• Outpatient Clinics – Patient coordination and insurance verification
• Long-Term Care Facilities – Resident records and administrative duties
• Medical Billing Firms – Coding and reimbursement tracking

Requirements to Become a Medical Office Specialist in Minnesota

Education

• High School Diploma or GED – Required baseline qualification
• Medical Office Training Program – Offered at vocational schools, community colleges, or online platforms

Programs typically include:

• Medical terminology
• Billing and coding basics
• Electronic health record systems
• Office communication and ethics

Certification (Optional)

While Minnesota does not mandate certification, employers often prefer candidates who are certified. Recognized certifications include:

• Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
• Certified Medical Administrative Specialist (CMAS)
• Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)

Certifications may require passing an exam and meeting ongoing education requirements.

How to Become a Medical Office Specialist in Minnesota?

1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED

This is the foundation for further training. High school coursework in computers, health sciences, or business is helpful.

2. Enroll in a Medical Office Specialist Program

Find a program that offers training in:

• EHR systems
• Insurance and billing procedures
• HIPAA and privacy regulations
• Scheduling software and patient interaction

Duration: 6–12 months
Cost: Starting at approximately $3,000

Use Dreambound to:

• Compare programs in Minnesota
• Filter by cost, location, and delivery method (online or in-person)
• Read student reviews and outcomes

3. Pursue Certification (Optional)

After training, consider certification to increase your employability. Common options include:

• CMAA by NHA
• CMAS by AMT
• CMOM by PMI

Each certification has its own exam and renewal process.

4. Apply for Jobs in Minnesota

Create a resume that highlights:

• Training program completion
• Any externships or clinical experiences
• Proficiency with EHR, billing software, and communication tools

Search for job openings under alternate titles like:

• Medical Administrative Assistant
• Patient Services Coordinator
• Medical Receptionist

Good sources include:

• MyNextMove.org
• Local hospital and clinic websites

5. Continue Learning and Growing

Once employed, consider additional certifications or training to advance into roles such as:

• Office Manager
• Billing and Coding Specialist
• Health Information Technician

Many professionals eventually pursue associate degrees or healthcare management certifications to climb further.

Where to Find Medical Office Specialist Classes in Minnesota

The best way to find high-quality training is through Dreambound, the largest platform for comparing vocational training programs. Dreambound allows you to:

• Search state-approved programs
• Filter by cost, location, and format (in-person or online)
• Read verified student reviews
• Connect directly with schools for enrollment or financial aid questions

Whether you're in the Twin Cities, Duluth, or Mankato, Dreambound helps you find the right program to start your career.

Career Paths and Opportunities

Becoming a Medical Office Specialist opens the door to several healthcare administrative careers, including: