What is a Medical Assistant?

A medical assistant is a healthcare professional who performs a variety of administrative and clinical tasks to support the operations of a medical facility. Their responsibilities can include scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, taking vital signs, assisting with examinations, and administering basic medical procedures. Medical assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth and efficient delivery of healthcare services.

Training Requirements for Medical Assistants in Milwaukee

To become a medical assistant in Milwaukee, individuals typically need to complete a postsecondary education program, such as a certificate or diploma program. These programs, which can be found at local community colleges, vocational schools, or private institutions, usually take between 9 to 12 months to complete. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical office procedures, and clinical skills.

The Fastest Path to Becoming a Medical Assistant in Milwaukee

For those looking to enter the medical assistant field quickly, Milwaukee offers several accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as 6 months. These intensive programs focus on the core competencies required for the role and often include hands-on training in a clinical setting. While the pace is faster, these programs still provide the necessary knowledge and skills to become a competent medical assistant.

Examples of Medical Assistant Programs in Milwaukee

Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)

MATC offers a Medical Assistant Technical Diploma program that can be completed in 2 semesters (approximately 9 months). The program covers administrative and clinical skills, and upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam.

Bryant & Stratton College

This private college has a Medical Assistant Associate's Degree program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. The curriculum includes coursework in medical terminology, medical office procedures, and clinical skills, as well as a 160-hour externship.

Herzing University

Herzing University's Milwaukee campus offers a Medical Assisting diploma program that can be finished in as little as 12 months. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training, preparing students for the CMA exam.

PSTI - Professional Skills Training Institute

PSTI provides a Medical Assistant Diploma program that can be completed in as little as 6 months. The program focuses on administrative and clinical skills, and students have the opportunity to participate in an externship.

Exploring a Career in Medical Assistant Outside Milwaukee

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, Hartford, Miami, Raleigh, or Toledo. 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 Medical Assistant Programs in Milwaukee

For those who prefer a more flexible learning option, Milwaukee also offers several online medical assistant programs. These programs allow students to complete their coursework remotely, while still providing opportunities for hands-on clinical training and externships. Some examples of online medical assistant programs in Milwaukee include those offered by Bryant & Stratton College and Herzing University.

Free Medical Assistant Training Options in Milwaukee

While most medical assistant programs in Milwaukee do require tuition, there are some free or low-cost options available for those who qualify. The Wisconsin Job Center, for instance, sometimes offers free medical assistant training programs for eligible individuals, such as those who are unemployed or underemployed. Additionally, some community organizations and nonprofits in Milwaukee may provide scholarship or grant opportunities to help cover the cost of medical assistant training.

The Certification Process for Medical Assistants in Milwaukee

In Wisconsin, medical assistants are not required to be certified, but many employers prefer or even require certification. The most widely recognized certification for medical assistants is the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential, which is awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). To become a CMA, individuals must graduate from an accredited medical assistant program and pass the CMA exam.

The Job Environment for Medical Assistants in Milwaukee

Milwaukee's thriving healthcare industry offers a wide range of job opportunities for medical assistants. Potential employers include hospitals, clinics, medical offices, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of medical assistants in the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis metropolitan area is projected to grow by 14% between 2022 and 2032, faster than the national average.

Some of the top employers for medical assistants in Milwaukee include:

• Aurora Health Care
• Froedtert Health
• Children's Wisconsin
• Ascension Wisconsin
• Advocate Aurora Health

These healthcare systems and medical facilities are constantly in need of skilled and compassionate medical assistants to support their operations and provide high-quality patient care.

Final Thoughts

Milwaukee's growing healthcare industry has created a strong demand for medical assistants, making it an attractive career path for those interested in the medical field. With a variety of medical assistant training programs available, both in-person and online, aspiring medical assistants in Milwaukee have ample opportunities to acquire the necessary skills and certifications. Whether you're looking to complete your training quickly or prefer a more traditional program, Milwaukee offers a range of options to help you achieve your goals and join the vital healthcare workforce.

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