Medical assistants are an integral part of the medical field as they perform various tasks to keep the office running smoothly. The job can be extremely rewarding, but it can also be challenging. With such a pivotal role it plays in the world of healthcare, it’s not surprising to see that the job market for medical assistants is proliferating.
After all, medical assistants are responsible for various tasks in a medical office, from handling patient paperwork to preparing patients for exams. This role is crucial to the smooth operation of a medical office, and as the demand for medical care increases, the demand for medical assistants will too. With that in mind, what kind of jobs can you expect when you get a medical assisting degree?
Breaking Down the Core Responsibilities of a Medical Assistant
Medical assistants are a crucial part of the medical profession, and their responsibilities can vary depending on their place of employment. However, there are some core responsibilities that all medical assistants share, including the following:
- Greeting and assisting patients
- Writing patient charts and documenting patient information
- Preparing patients for examination and treatment
- Assisting physicians during exams
- Administering injections and other treatments
- Collecting and preparing laboratory specimens
- Ordering and stocking supplies
Ultimately, medical assistants must be able to work efficiently and effectively to ensure that patients receive the best possible care. They must also be good communicators, able to communicate with patients and healthcare professionals alike.
What Can You Do with a Medical Assisting Degree?
1. Medical Clerk
National average salary: $30,430 per year
Medical clerks are responsible for handling the day-to-day operations of the office, from handling patient paperwork to filing medical records. They may also be responsible for billing and insurance claims. A medical clerk must be organized and efficient, with strong attention to detail. They must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
A medical clerk typically has a high school diploma or equivalent and may have some post-secondary education in medical administration or a related field. They may also have certification from a professional organization, such as the American Association of Medical Assistants.
2. Patient Services Representative
National average salary: $32,885 per year
As a patient services representative, you would be responsible for greeting patients and providing them with information about their appointments. You would also be responsible for answering patients’ questions and helping ensure their visit goes as smoothly as possible. This is a customer service-oriented role, so strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
3. Medical Office Assistant
National average salary: $34,083 per year
Medical office assistants are responsible for a wide variety of tasks in a medical office setting. They may be responsible for handling patient information, scheduling appointments, preparing patients for exams, and handling billing and insurance paperwork. They must have excellent organizational skills and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
4. EKG Technician
National average salary: $34,861 per year
As an EKG technician, you would be responsible for recording a patient’s heart activity. This could include taking readings during an EKG test, analyzing the data, and providing a report to the doctor. With that in mind, it is vital to have a good understanding of medical terminology and anatomy to correctly interpret the data.
5. Medical Office Manager
National average salary: $52,619 per year
Medical office managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a medical office. This includes managing the staff, scheduling appointments, handling billing and insurance, as well as ensuring that the office runs smoothly.
Medical office managers typically have a few years of experience as a medical assistant, and they must have strong organizational and managerial skills. They must also be able to handle stress and be able to work with a variety of people.
The Bottom Line: Exploring Your Potential Career Growth as an Aspiring Medical Assistant
If you’re looking for a healthcare career that’s in high demand, consider medical assisting. With a medical assisting degree, you can explore a variety of jobs in the medical field. From working in a doctor’s office to becoming a medical coder, there are many opportunities for you to use your skills and knowledge.
If you’re looking for a certified medical assistant program, Northwest Suburban College is a great option. Our program includes both classroom and clinical training, and we offer several different pathways so you can find the right program for your needs. We also offer a flexible schedule, so you can continue to work while you’re training. Contact us today to learn more about our program and how to apply!
