What You Should Know
Typically, schools in the United States that offer courses for medical assistants provide hands-on experience in working with patients, along with training in the classroom that they will apply on a daily basis in the future. This means that students can launch their careers in a relatively short amount of time and feel fully qualified for the job when they do. Also, a number of programs even include an internship that enables them to feel confident as they begin their new careers.
What You Will Learn
The extent of training for medical assistants varies from state to state and from one school to another as well. In general, students are trained in techniques that include patient care, pharmacology, electrocardiography, health sciences, laboratory procedures, therapeutic care and endocrinology. This, along with classes in medical insurance and bookkeeping, prepares them to deal with their employer’s medical and administrative needs in a professional manner.
Flexibility on the Job
A majority of medical assistants are employed full-time and work 40 hours a week. However, some medical facilities are open in the evening and on week ends to meet their patients’ needs, and you will be able to create a flexible schedule that fits in well with your private life. Depending on the policy followed where you are employed, you may also be able to work on a part-time basis, if you prefer.
Opportunities for Advancement
Once you become certified as a medical assistant, your key to advancement will be completing additional training. For example, you might assume the role of office manager if you have good organizational skills, or become a