What is a Medical Assistant?

A medical assistant is a healthcare professional who performs a variety of administrative and clinical tasks to support the work of physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers. Medical assistants are responsible for tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with minor medical procedures.

Training Requirements

To become a medical assistant in Buffalo, individuals typically need to complete a postsecondary education program, such as a certificate or diploma program. These programs are often offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or private career schools, and they typically take between 9 and 12 months to complete.

Fastest Path to Becoming a Medical Assistant in Buffalo

The fastest way to become a medical assistant in Buffalo is to enroll in a certificate or diploma program that can be completed in as little as 9 months. These accelerated programs are designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the workforce quickly.

Medical Assistant Classes in Buffalo

Buffalo offers several options for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a medical assistant. Here are a few examples of medical assistant classes available in the city:

Erie Community College

• Program length: 9 months
• Tuition: approximately $4,500
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: The program covers topics such as medical terminology, medical office procedures, clinical skills, and pharmacology.

Bryant & Stratton College

• Program length: 18 months
• Tuition: approximately $25,000
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: The program covers a wide range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical office procedures, and clinical skills.

Trocaire College

• Program length: 12 months
• Tuition: approximately $12,000
• Requirements: High school diploma or GED
• Overview: The program covers topics such as medical terminology, medical office procedures, clinical skills, and pharmacology.

Exploring a Career in Medical Assistant Outside Buffalo

If you've been reading this article and long to become a Medical Assistant, but you live in a different state, don't lose hope achieving your goal is still within reach. You might consider exploring opportunities to become a Medical Assistant in Baltimore, Dallas/Fort Worth, Little Rock, Providence, St. Louis. If none of these locations work for you, Dreambound makes it easier than ever to pursue your dreams regardless of your location by simplifying the process of finding and comparing Medical Assistant classes through a convenient search by zip code. With determination and access to the right resources, you can confidently pursue a successful career in healthcare, no matter where you live.

Online Options for Medical Assistant Training in Buffalo

In addition to traditional classroom-based programs, there are also online options available for individuals interested in becoming a medical assistant in Buffalo. These programs allow students to complete their coursework remotely, making them a convenient option for those with busy schedules or who live in remote areas.

One example of an online medical assistant program available in Buffalo is the Medical Assisting diploma program offered by Bryant & Stratton College. This program can be completed entirely online and takes approximately 18 months to finish. Tuition for the program is approximately $25,000, and students must have a high school diploma or GED to be eligible.

Free Options for Medical Assistant Training in Buffalo

While there are no completely free medical assistant training programs available in Buffalo, there are some options that can help reduce the cost of education. For example, some community colleges and vocational schools offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities that can help offset the cost of tuition and fees.

Additionally, some healthcare organizations in Buffalo may offer on-the-job training programs for medical assistants, which can provide hands-on experience and potentially lead to employment opportunities.

Certification Process for Medical Assistants in Buffalo

In New York, medical assistants are not required to be certified, but many employers prefer or require certification. The most common certification for medical assistants in Buffalo is the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential, which is awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).

To become a CMA, individuals must complete a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), and then pass the CMA exam. The exam covers topics such as general medical knowledge, clinical procedures, and administrative tasks.

Job Environment for Medical Assistants in Buffalo

Buffalo's healthcare industry is a significant employer in the region, with several major hospitals and medical centers located within the city. Some of the potential employers for medical assistants in Buffalo include:

• Kaleida Health: One of the largest healthcare providers in Western New York, with several hospitals and medical centers in the Buffalo area.
• Catholic Health: A network of hospitals, healthcare facilities, and physician practices throughout the Buffalo region.
• UBMD Physicians' Group: The faculty practice plan of the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo.
• Erie County Medical Center (ECMC): A public hospital and level-one trauma center serving the Buffalo metropolitan area.

Medical assistants in Buffalo can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, physician's offices, clinics, and outpatient care facilities. The job outlook for medical assistants in the Buffalo area is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 14% growth in employment for the occupation between 2022 and 2032.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo, New York, offers a range of educational opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a medical assistant. With several accredited programs available, both in-person and online, aspiring medical assistants in the Buffalo area can find a program that fits their needs and schedule. Additionally, the city's growing healthcare industry provides a variety of potential employment opportunities for those who have completed their medical assistant training.

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