Medical Assistant
What Does a Medical Assistant Do?
The role of a medical assistant varies widely depending on the setting and nature of the job, with a focus on administrative and clinical tasks.
Administrative tasks include updating patient records, answering the phone in a medical office, scheduling appointments, handling insurance and billing, and arranging for lab tests.
Clinical tasks include setting up the patient for examination, assisting the doctor during examinations, conducting basic tests, drawing blood, and assisting with medication orders.
Medical assistants work in doctor’s offices, hospitals, outpatient clinics, and health care facilities.
Requirements
- A high school degree or equivalent or is required
- Training, certifications, and examinations are required by some states and employers
- Additional knowledge is desirable, preferably with an accredited school acknowledged by Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
Schools for Medical Assistants
Online training is available in this field. Click here for a list of schools by state.
Tip
It’s helpful to be certified in a specific field of medicine to grow your chances of employment.
Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, growth in this career is expected to increase by 23% between 2018 and 2028.
See Also
