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 handling a wide range of administrative tasks within a medical facility, such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, processing insurance claims, and providing customer service to patients. Their role is vital in ensuring the smooth operation of a medical practice or hospital.

Training Requirements

To become a medical office specialist, individuals typically need to complete a postsecondary education program, such as a certificate or diploma program. These programs often cover topics like medical terminology, medical coding, billing and insurance procedures, and office management. The length of these programs can vary, but they generally range from several months to one year.

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

In Des Moines, there are several options for individuals looking to become a medical office specialist quickly. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer accelerated certificate programs that can be completed in as little as 6-12 months. These programs provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the field and start their career as a medical office specialist.

Medical Office Classes in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to several institutions that offer medical office classes. Here are a few examples:

1. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC): DMACC offers a Medical Office Specialist Diploma program that can be completed in just one year. The program covers topics such as medical terminology, medical office procedures, and medical billing and coding. The tuition cost is approximately $5,000 for the entire program, and students must have a high school diploma or equivalent to enroll.

2. Mercy College of Health Sciences: Mercy College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Medical Office Administration. This two-year program prepares students for a career as a medical office specialist, covering areas like medical coding, electronic health records, and patient relations. The estimated tuition cost is $20,000 for the entire program.

3. Kaplan University (Online): For those who prefer a more flexible option, Kaplan University offers an online Medical Office Administration Certificate program. This program can be completed in as little as 9 months and covers essential medical office skills. The estimated tuition cost is $15,000 for the entire program.

Exploring a Career in Medical Office Outside Des Moines

If this article has sparked your interest in becoming a Medical Office Specialist, but you're not in the same state, don't let that hold you back. You have the chance to pursue a career as a Medical Office Specialist in places like Boston, Denver, Lakeland, Salt Lake City, or Washington. And if none of these locations fit, Dreambound makes it easy for anyone, anywhere, to find and compare Medical Office classes just by searching with their zip code. With a bit of determination and the right tools at your disposal, stepping into a successful business and office career is completely doable, no matter your current location.

Online and Free Options in Des Moines

In addition to the on-campus options, Des Moines also offers online and free opportunities for individuals interested in becoming a medical office specialist.

1. Online Options: Several online schools, such as Kaplan University and Penn Foster College, offer self-paced, online medical office specialist programs that can be completed from the comfort of one's own home.

2. Free Options: While free medical office specialist programs are limited in Des Moines, the city's public library system often provides free workshops and resources related to healthcare administration and office skills.

Certification Process

After completing a medical office specialist program, individuals may choose to pursue certification to enhance their credentials and job prospects. The Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) certification, offered by the National Healthcareer Association, is a widely recognized credential in the field. To obtain the CMAA certification, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, coding, and office procedures.

Job Environment in Des Moines

Des Moines boasts a thriving healthcare industry, making it an excellent location for medical office specialists to find employment. Potential employers in the city include:

• Hospitals (e.g., UnityPoint Health, MercyOne)
• Physician practices
• Specialty clinics (e.g., orthopedic, pediatric, oncology)
• Outpatient care centers
• Nursing homes and assisted living facilities

The demand for skilled medical office specialists in Des Moines is expected to remain strong, as the city's aging population and the growing emphasis on preventive care continue to drive the need for efficient medical office support.

Final Thoughts

Des Moines offers a dynamic and promising environment for individuals interested in becoming a medical office specialist. With a variety of on-campus and online training options, as well as the potential for well-paying jobs and a good medical office specialist salary, the city provides ample opportunities for those looking to kickstart a career in this vital healthcare field.

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