Medical Assistant Schools and Training Programs

Types of Medical Assistants

Administrative medical assistants update and file patients' medical records, fill out insurance forms, and arrange for hospital admissions and laboratory services. Like administrative assistants in non-medical settings, they also answer telephones, schedule appointments and handle billing and bookkeeping.

Clinical medical assistants are regulated by state law, so their duties may vary. However, those duties may include taking medical histories, recording vital signs, preparing patients for examinations and assisting physicians during examinations. They may also collect and prepare laboratory specimens, and even perform basic lab tests. Clinical medical assistants also might be responsible for purchasing and maintaining examination room supplies and equipment.

Certain physicians require specialized medical assistants. Eye doctors use ophthalmic medical assistants to conduct vision tests, apply dressings and teach patients to use contact lenses. Podiatric medical assistants take x-rays, make foot castings and assist podiatrists in surgery.

Medical Assistant Employment and Advancement Opportunities

Because of the aging of the population and advancements in medical technology, medical assisting has become one of the fastest growing occupations. The bls.gov projects 34 percent employment growth between 2008 and 2018, which is much faster than average.

Driving this job growth is the increasing prevalence of conditions such as obesity and diabetes, putting a greater burden on physicians and the healthcare system in general. In addition, the industry has seen a rise in group practices, clinics, and other healthcare facilities that need a high proportion of support personnel, particularly medical assistants who can handle both administrative and clinical duties.

Earnings and Advancement Potential

As with almost any career, earnings of medical assistants vary based on location and job experience. The average annual wage of a medical assistant was $29,760 in 2010, according to the bls.gov. Earnings tend to be highest in physicians’ offices and clinics.

Experienced medical assistants may advance their careers to office management or support positions. Medical assisting, combined with additional training, can also lead to other healthcare careers, such as medical technology or nursing.

Additional Information for Individuals Searching for a Medical Assistant School
Medical Assistant Career Information
Medical Office Administration Training Schools

Additional Resources for Medical Assistant Degree Prospects
American Association of Medical Assistants
American Society of Podiatric Medical Assistant