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. Their responsibilities may include scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with minor medical procedures.

Training Requirements

To become a medical assistant in Wichita, individuals typically need to complete a postsecondary educational program, which can range from a few months to two years in duration. These programs are offered at various institutions, including community colleges, vocational schools, and private career schools.

Fastest Path to Becoming a Medical Assistant in Wichita

The fastest way to become a medical assistant in Wichita is to enroll in a certificate or diploma program, which can be completed in as little as six months to one year. These programs focus on the essential skills and knowledge required for the role, such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, clinical procedures, and administrative tasks.

Medical Assistant Programs in Wichita

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

1. Wichita Area Technical College (WATC): WATC offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Medical Assisting, which can be completed in as little as two years. The program covers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both administrative and clinical skills. Tuition and fees for the program are approximately $10,000.

2. Hesston College: Hesston College, a private liberal arts college, offers a one-year Medical Assistant certificate program. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Tuition and fees for the program are around $18,000.

3. Wichita State University: Wichita State University, a public research university, offers a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) program that includes coursework and training relevant to medical assisting. The program can be completed in two years and costs approximately $15,000 in tuition and fees.

4. National American University: National American University, a private for-profit university, has a campus in Wichita that offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Assisting. The program can be completed in as little as 18 months, and tuition and fees are around $25,000.

Exploring a Career in Medical Assistant Outside Wichita

If you've been inspired to follow the path of a Medical Assistant but geography isn't on your side, worry not. Your aspiration to become a Medical Assistant is within reach in Akron, Greensboro, North Port, Palm Bay, Spokane. For those who don't find these options feasible, Dreambound enables you to effortlessly find and evaluate Medical Assistant classes by simply searching with a zip code. Armed with determination and Dreambound, anyone, anywhere, can achieve a career in healthcare.

Online Options for Medical Assistant Training in Wichita

In addition to traditional on-campus programs, Wichita residents also have the option of pursuing medical assistant training through online programs. These programs allow students to complete their coursework remotely, providing flexibility for those who need to balance work, family, or other commitments.

One example of an online medical assistant program available to Wichita residents is the Medical Assisting program offered by Rasmussen University. This program can be completed entirely online and takes approximately 18 months to finish. Tuition and fees for the program are around $30,000.

Free Medical Assistant Programs in Wichita

While free medical assistant programs are relatively rare, there are a few options available in Wichita for individuals who are looking for more affordable or no-cost training opportunities.

One such option is the Medical Assistant Training Program offered by the Wichita Area Technical College (WATC). This program is designed for low-income individuals and provides tuition assistance and other support services to eligible participants. The program can be completed in as little as six months and is offered at no cost to qualified applicants.

Another free option is the Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) to Medical Assistant Bridge Program offered by the Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas. This program is designed for individuals who have already obtained their CNA certification and are looking to transition into a medical assistant role. The program provides training and certification at no cost to participants.

Certification Process for Medical Assistants in Wichita

In the state of Kansas, medical assistants are not required to be certified or licensed to practice. However, many employers in Wichita prefer or even require their medical assistants to be certified, as it demonstrates a higher level of knowledge and skills.

The most commonly recognized certification for medical assistants is the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential, which is awarded by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). To obtain the CMA certification, individuals must complete an accredited medical assisting program and pass a comprehensive examination.

Job Environment for Medical Assistants in Wichita

Wichita's thriving healthcare industry provides numerous employment opportunities for medical assistants. Some of the potential employers for medical assistants in the city include:

• Via Christi Health: Wichita's largest healthcare provider, operating several hospitals and clinics throughout the city.
• Wesley Healthcare: A major healthcare system with multiple hospital locations in Wichita.
• Ascension Via Christi: A Catholic healthcare system with a strong presence in Wichita.
• Wichita Clinic: A large multi-specialty medical group with several locations in the Wichita area.
• Private Physician Practices: Wichita is home to many independent medical practices that employ medical assistants.

Medical assistants in Wichita can expect to work in a variety of settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, specialty practices, and other healthcare facilities. The job environment can be fast-paced and demanding, but also rewarding for those who enjoy working in the healthcare field.

Final Thoughts

Wichita offers a range of educational opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a medical assistant. With several accredited programs available, both on-campus and online, aspiring medical assistants can find a path that best fits their needs and goals. Additionally, the city's thriving healthcare industry provides numerous employment opportunities for those who have completed their training and obtained the necessary certifications. By taking advantage of the resources and programs available in Wichita, individuals can embark on a rewarding career as a medical assistant and contribute to the well-being of the community.

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