Becoming a medical assistant is a great way to get started in the medical field. It’s one of the most in-demand and rewarding career paths available today. There are many reasons why people choose to become medical assistants, but it’s essential to make sure that it’s the right career for you before you commit to it. Here are a few things to consider before you decide if becoming a medical assistant is the right career for you.
How to Become a Medical Assistant
Medical assistants typically need to complete an accredited medical assistant training program. The length of the training program varies, but most programs take between one and two years to complete. If you want to become a medical assistant, here’s what you need to do to become a medical assistant:
1. Earn a Diploma
Many employers in the medical assistant field may prefer candidates who have completed some sort of postsecondary training program. However, it is possible to find a position without this type of education. There are a few different types of medical assistant credentials, but many employers prefer to hire those with either a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credential. To earn either of these credentials, candidates must complete a diploma or certificate program.
2. Gain Experience Through Internships
Most medical assistant programs will offer internships or externships as part of the curriculum, which can provide students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the field. These internships can be a great way to get your foot in the door at a medical practice or hospital, and they may even lead to a full-time job offer after graduation.
3. Get Certified
Once you have completed an accredited medical assistant program, you can apply for a credential. As mentioned earlier, there are multiple credentialing organizations that offer different medical assistant credentials, but the two most common are the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) designation from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) credential from the American Medical Technologists (AMT). Most employers prefer to hire candidates with one of these credentials, and they are not difficult to obtain. Candidates must take and pass a multiple-choice exam and submit an application, which may include a fee.
4. Take Stock of Your Skills
Medical assistants are expected to have a wide range of skills, so it is important to consider what skills you have to offer a potential employer. Many employers will prefer medical assistants with strong multitasking, customer service, and computer skills, so make sure to highlight these skills on your resume and during job interviews.
5. Start Applying
Once you have completed your medical assistant program, you are ready to start applying for jobs. Start by looking for medical assistant job postings online, in newspapers, and on job boards. You can also contact medical practices and hospitals in your area to inquire about job openings. When applying for medical assistant jobs, it is important to include your medical assistant credential and any relevant experience in your resume and cover letter.
6. Consider Specialization
Medical assistants can specialize in a specific area of medicine, such as podiatry, ophthalmology, or optometry. Specialized medical assistants may need to complete additional training and pass a specialized exam, but they can often earn higher salaries than general medical assistants.
Conclusion
Medical assistants are in high demand, and it’s not hard to see why. They play a vital role in the healthcare industry and help keep things running smoothly. If you’re thinking about becoming a medical assistant, these tips should come in handy.
Interested in starting a career in the medical industry? Northwest Suburban College is the perfect place for you to start your journey in your career. We offer quality and affordable education as well as valuable healthcare career training. If you want to become a medical assistant, pharmacy technician, or dental assistant, Northwest Suburban College is the place to be. Reach out to us today to learn more about our training and certification programs.
