How to Become a Medical Assistant [2021 Guide]

Updated on December 21, 2020

Did you know that 725,200 people in the US are working as a medical assistant?

Medical assistants help doctors in providing healthcare services. They often are the ones that patients first see and consult about their problems.

Working in the healthcare industry is a fulfilling job that allows you to help people. If you want to become a medical assistant, you will need to know the basics. Here is a guide about everything you need to know in becoming a medical assistant.

Choose a Medical Program

You need to choose a medical-related program if you want to become a medical assistant. It must be an accredited course by the CAAHEP. This will reassure you that the place will provide you the right skills in the future.

There a few ways courses that can help you become a medical assistant online. What makes it different is that you can fix it to your advantage. Some programs can provide you online learning such as UMA

Getting a scholarship will help you in paying for your education. Fill out a FAFSA, which will determine how much the government can give you. This is the most helpful option for students who have financial need.

Though medical assistants can handle many duties, you will find it easier if you have a specialty. Keep in mind that an associate degree will take to 2 years to complete. If you want to work immediately, you will want to get that diploma, which might take one year or less.

Earn Your Licensure 

After completing your program, the next step is passing the board exam and getting certified. You will undertake three separate tests that test your knowledge of different information and skills. The American Association of Medical Assistants will provide the exam.

This makes it a good idea to study past exams to get a handle on what to expect. Preparing like such is a great way to increase your odds of passing.

Once you completed the exam, you will get a license, which you will need to renew every five years. Most employers will look for a medical assistant certification. This will assure them that you’re a capable employee in doing your job.

Start Working in the Healthcare Industry

Once you completed your medical certification, you will need to start working to gain experience in the field. Your experience will matter more when you’re in an interview, as everything you’re applying to assumes you’re capable.

You can also go back to studying at this point. You can help yourself get a master’s degree while working part-time in the industry for the experience.

Become a Medical Assistant Today

Learning to become a medical assistant is a long process. This job is a noble job that holds financial and social stability. It will need you to show eagerness and determination to get this privilege in serving people.

Do you want to learn more about the medical industry? Check out more of our guides to learn all you can today!

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Throughout the year, our writers feature fresh, in-depth, and relevant information for our audience of 40,000+ healthcare leaders and professionals. As a healthcare business publication, we cover and cherish our relationship with the entire health care industry including administrators, nurses, physicians, physical therapists, pharmacists, and more. We cover a broad spectrum from hospitals to medical offices to outpatient services to eye surgery centers to university settings. We focus on rehabilitation, nursing homes, home care, hospice as well as men’s health, women’s heath, and pediatrics.