What is a Medical Assistant?

A Medical Assistant is a healthcare professional who performs a variety of administrative and clinical tasks in a medical setting, such as a doctor's office, clinic, or hospital. Their duties often include scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, assisting with examinations, administering medications, and providing basic patient care. Medical Assistants play a crucial role in supporting healthcare providers and ensuring the smooth operation of medical facilities.

Training Requirements for Medical Assistants

To become a medical assistant, individuals typically need to complete a postsecondary education program, which can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, or private career schools. These programs typically take between 9 and 12 months to complete and cover a range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, administrative procedures, and clinical skills. Upon completion of the program, students may be eligible to take a certification exam, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, to demonstrate their competency and enhance their employment prospects.

Becoming a Medical Assistant in Lakeland

Aspiring Medical Assistants in Lakeland have several options for training and education. The city is home to a number of institutions that offer Medical Assistant programs, each with its own unique features and benefits.

Polk State College

• Polk State College, a public community college, offers a Medical Assistant program at its Lakeland campus. The program is designed to be completed in just 10 months and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Students can expect to take courses in medical terminology, administrative procedures, clinical skills, and more. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and prepares graduates to sit for the CMA exam.

Rasmussen University

• Rasmussen University, a private institution with a campus in Lakeland, offers an Associate of Science in Medical Assisting degree program. This 18-month program covers a comprehensive curriculum, including topics such as medical law and ethics, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. Students also complete an externship at a local healthcare facility to gain real-world experience. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the CMA exam.

Everest University

• Everest University, a for-profit career college, has a Lakeland campus that offers a Medical Assistant diploma program. This program can be completed in as little as 10 months and includes coursework in medical office procedures, clinical skills, and medical terminology. Everest University's program is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and prepares students to sit for the CMA exam.

Southeastern University

• Southeastern University, a private Christian university located in Lakeland, offers a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration with a concentration in Medical Assisting. This 4-year program provides a comprehensive education in both administrative and clinical aspects of medical assisting, as well as a strong foundation in healthcare management. Graduates of this program are eligible to take the CMA exam.

Exploring a Career as Medical Assistant Outside Lakeland

For anyone looking to become a Medical Assistant but is in a different state, your opportunity to work as a Medical Assistant might be found in Birmingham, Durham, Louisville/Jefferson County, Raleigh, Virginia Beach. Should these not be viable options, Dreambound eases the process of discovering and comparing Medical Assistant classes with a zip code-based search. With the drive to succeed and the support of resources like Dreambound, anyone can forge a successful path in healthcare, no matter where they are.

Online and Free Medical Assistant Programs in Lakeland

In addition to the on-campus options, Lakeland residents may also have access to online Medical Assistant programs. These programs offer the flexibility of distance learning, allowing students to complete their studies at their own pace and from the comfort of their own homes. While online programs may not provide the same level of hands-on training as on-campus programs, they can be a convenient option for those with busy schedules or who live in more remote areas.

Unfortunately, there are no known free Medical Assistant programs available in Lakeland. Most programs require tuition and fees, though some may offer financial aid or payment plans to help make education more accessible.

The Certification Process for Medical Assistants

To become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), individuals must pass the Certified Medical Assistant exam, which is administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The exam covers a range of topics, including clinical procedures, administrative tasks, and medical ethics. Once certified, Medical Assistants must maintain their certification through continued education and professional development.

Job Opportunities for Medical Assistants in Lakeland

Lakeland's thriving healthcare industry provides ample job opportunities for Medical Assistants. Potential employers in the Lakeland area include:

• BayCare Health System: A large healthcare network with several hospitals and outpatient facilities in the Lakeland region.
• Lakeland Regional Health: The largest healthcare provider in Polk County, offering a wide range of medical services.
• Watson Clinic: A prominent multi-specialty medical practice with multiple locations in Lakeland and the surrounding area.
• Polk County Health Department: The local public health agency, which may employ Medical Assistants in various clinics and programs.
• Private physician practices: Numerous independent medical practices in Lakeland that often hire Medical Assistants to support their operations.

Final Thoughts

Lakeland, Florida is an excellent choice for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a Medical Assistant. With a variety of accredited training programs available, both on-campus and online, aspiring Medical Assistants can find the right educational path to suit their needs and goals. Additionally, the thriving healthcare industry in Lakeland provides ample job opportunities for qualified Medical Assistants, making the city an attractive option for those seeking a rewarding and in-demand career.

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