What is a Medical Office Specialist?

A Medical Office Specialist, also known as a Medical Administrative Assistant, is a crucial member of the healthcare team. They are responsible for managing the administrative and clerical tasks within a medical office or clinic. Their duties may include scheduling appointments, handling patient records, processing insurance claims, and providing customer service to patients.

Training Requirements

To become a Medical Office Specialist, you typically need to complete a postsecondary certificate or diploma program. These programs often cover topics such as medical terminology, office procedures, medical coding, and customer service. The length of the program can vary, but most can be completed in less than a year.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Medical Office Specialist in Chicago?

In Chicago, you can become a Medical Office Specialist in as little as a few months. Several community colleges and vocational schools offer accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as 6-12 weeks. These intensive programs provide the necessary training and certification to help you quickly enter the field.

Medical Office Classes in Chicago

Chicago offers a variety of medical office classes to choose from. Here are a few examples:

1. City Colleges of Chicago

   • Program: Medical Office Assistant Certificate
   • Length: 1 academic year (32 credit hours)
   • Cost: Approximately $3,000 for Illinois residents
   • Requirements: High school diploma or GED
   • Overview: This program covers medical terminology, medical office procedures, medical coding, and electronic health records. Students also complete an internship to gain practical experience.

2. Triton College

   • Program: Medical Office Assistant Certificate
   • Length: 2 semesters (30 credit hours)
   • Cost: Approximately $4,500 for in-district residents
   • Requirements: High school diploma or GED
   • Overview: This program prepares students for administrative roles in healthcare settings, including scheduling, billing, and patient relations. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) exam.

3. Oakton Community College

   • Program: Medical Office Administration Certificate
   • Length: 2 semesters (30 credit hours)
   • Cost: Approximately $5,000 for in-district residents
   • Requirements: High school diploma or GED
   • Overview: This program covers medical terminology, medical office procedures, medical coding, and healthcare information management. Students also have the opportunity to complete an internship.

Exploring a Career in Medical Office Outside Chicago

If you've been reading this article and aspire to become a Medical Office Specialist, but you reside in a different state, rest assured that achieving your goal is still within reach. You might consider exploring opportunities to become a Medical Office Specialist in Cape Coral, Durham, New Orleans, Portland, or Tampa. Don't worry if you haven't found your location among these, because Dreambound makes it easier than ever to pursue your dreams regardless of your location by simplifying the process of finding and comparing Medical Office classes through a convenient search by zip code. With dedication and access to the right resources, you can confidently pursue a successful career in business and office, no matter where you live.

Online and Free Options in Chicago

In addition to the in-person classes, Chicago also offers online and free options for those interested in becoming a Medical Office Specialist.

Online Options: Several local colleges and universities offer online or hybrid programs for Medical Office Specialist training. These programs allow students to complete their coursework remotely, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or who prefer a more flexible learning environment.

Free Options: The Chicago Public Library system offers free computer and technology classes, including courses related to medical office administration. These classes can provide a valuable introduction to the field and help individuals develop the necessary skills to pursue further training.

Certification Process

After completing a Medical Office Specialist program, individuals may choose to pursue certification. The most common certification is the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) credential, offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). To obtain the CMAA certification, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, office procedures, and patient relations.

Job Environment in Chicago

Chicago's thriving healthcare industry offers numerous employment opportunities for Medical Office Specialists. Potential employers include hospitals, clinics, private practices, and outpatient care centers. Medical Office Specialists may also find work in insurance companies, medical billing and coding firms, or pharmaceutical companies.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Medical Office Specialist in Chicago can be a rewarding and lucrative career path. With the city's diverse array of medical office classes, both in-person and online, individuals can quickly acquire the necessary skills and certifications to enter this growing field. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a change, Chicago's medical office specialist job market presents an exciting opportunity to become a valuable member of the healthcare team.

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