The following information is from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Medical Assistants. Please visit the website for a more comprehensive breakdown of the data.
LINKS TO MEDICAL ASSISTING DIRECTORY PAGES
WHAT MEDICAL ASSISTANTS DO
Medical assistants complete administrative and clinical tasks in the offices of physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities.
Job Duties
PAY
National Average Annual Pay (2019): $35,720
Top 5 States
1. Alaska
$45,630
2. Washington
$43,760
3. Massachusetts
$41,780
4. Minnesota
$41,710
5. Connecticut
$40,440
Bottom 5 States
50. West Virginia
$28,710
49. Alabama
$29,220
48. Louisiana
$30,070
47. Mississippi
$30,690
46. Arkansas
$30,950
STEPS TO BECOME A MEDICAL ASSISTANT
The requirements to become a medical assistant vary state by state. Some states do not have any formal education requirements to become a medical assistant. However, many employers prefer to hire medical assistants who have completed a medical assisting program and obtained certification.
There are five certifications that are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies for medical assistants. Your medical assisting program will likely recommend which examination to take. The five certifications are:
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants
- Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) from the American Medical Technologists
- National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) from the National Center for Competency Testing
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) from the National Healthcareer Association
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) from the National Healthcareer Association
1. Enter a Medical Assisting Program
The program typically takes 1-2 years. Depending on the program, you may receive a type of certification of achievement or an associate’s degree.
2. Take an Exam to be Certified
Many employers prefer to hire certified medical assistants.
3. Get Hired as a Medical Assistant
QUALITIES OF MEDICAL ASSISTANTS
Analytical Skills
Medical assistants must be able to understand and follow medical charts and diagnoses. They may be required to code a patient’s medical records for billing purposes.
Technical Skills
Medical assistants should be able to use basic clinical instruments so they can take patients’ vital signs.
Interpersonal Skills
Medical assistants need to be able to discuss patient information with other medical personnel, such as physicians. They often interact with patients who may be in pain or in distress, so they need to be able to act in a calm and professional manner.
Detail Oriented
Medical assistants need to be precise when taking vital signs or recording patient information. Physicians and insurance companies rely on accurate records.