Deciding on a career can be a daunting task. One of the frequently asked questions is “Is being a medical assistant worth it?”. Like any profession, medical assisting has its pros and cons. Understanding these factors can help determine if it aligns with career goals and personal preferences. This guide will explore why becoming a medical assistant might be a great option, factors to consider before entering this field, and the next steps to embark on this career path.
Job Security and Growth
One of the most appealing aspects of a career as a medical assistant is job security. In today’s volatile job market, finding a career with steady demand is crucial. The employment rate for medical assistants is projected to grow by 16% through 2031. This growth rate is nearly double the national average for other jobs, which is only about 5-8% (According to recent data from the BLS http://bls.gov).
To put these numbers into perspective, by the end of 2021, there were approximately 743,500 medical assistants employed in the U.S. With a projected 16% growth rate by 2031, the field expects to add more than 118,000 new jobs, equating to over 10,000 jobs annually for the next decade.
This significant growth can be attributed to the aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services. As the need for medical services continues to rise, the outlook for medical assistants remains positive, offering a stable career path with plenty of opportunities.
Versatility and Stability
Medical assisting provides a stable career with low turnover and unemployment rates. One of the benefits of this profession is its versatility. With the training medical assistants receive, they can work in various outpatient clinic settings, ranging from family practices to specialty clinics.
This versatility also means that medical assistants have a higher chance of finding suitable employment if they need to relocate. The strong demand for medical assistants makes it easier for those undergoing life changes, such as moving to a new area, to continue their careers without significant disruptions.
Pride and Personal Satisfaction
For many medical assistants, personal satisfaction and pride are significant reasons for choosing this career. The role allows them to make a positive impact on patients’ lives, fostering a deep sense of fulfillment. Over time, as medical assistants gain more experience, they are better equipped to assist patients in achieving their best health outcomes.
The relationships and rapport built with patients add to the rewarding nature of this profession. Patients often express gratitude for the care they receive, especially when medical assistants go the extra mile, such as contacting insurance companies or reaching out to family members. The satisfaction derived from helping patients navigate their healthcare journey can make the hard work and challenges of the job worthwhile.
Next Steps to Becoming a Medical Assistant
If medical assisting seems like the right fit, the next step is to seek proper training and education. There are various programs available, many of which offer flexible schedules and formats to accommodate different needs. These can help prospective medical assistants learn how to reduce training costs, avoid common mistakes, and prepare effectively for certification.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While there are many positive aspects of being a medical assistant, it is equally important to consider potential drawbacks to ensure it aligns with personal and career goals.
Patient Interaction and Exposure to Illnesses
The healthcare environment can pose a risk of exposure to illnesses. While medical facilities have made significant strides in disease prevention, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, the reality is that medical assistants still work in environments where communicable diseases are present. For individuals who are uncomfortable with the idea of being exposed to illnesses, even with precautionary measures in place, medical assisting may not be the best career choice.
Some positions within medical assisting can limit patient interaction; however, the likelihood of encountering patients with active illnesses remains high. Comfort and confidence in working in such environments are crucial for success and well-being in this profession.
Commitment to Education
Even though medical assisting programs are shorter than many other healthcare training programs, they still require time, effort, and dedication. Students must learn anatomy, physiology, etiology (the causes of diseases), and medical terminology. This intensive curriculum demands a level of commitment to mastering the required knowledge and skills.
Additionally, completing the education and training is only part of the journey. Medical assistants typically need to pass a certification exam to work in the field. Some states may have limitations on how many times a candidate can attempt the exam, which can add pressure to the educational process. Therefore, those who struggle with test-taking or find schooling particularly challenging may need to consider if they can overcome these obstacles to succeed in this career.
Stress and Increased Responsibilities
Medical assisting can be a stressful career, particularly as individuals gain more experience and take on additional responsibilities. The job often involves multitasking, meeting deadlines, handling challenging patient interactions, and managing office demands. Adaptability and stress management are essential skills for thriving in this fast-paced environment.
For those who do not perform well under pressure or find stressful situations draining, a medical assisting career may not be the best fit. It’s important to assess personal strengths and work preferences before committing to this path.
Is Being a Medical Assistant Worth It?
Deciding whether being a medical assistant is worth it depends on individual goals, preferences, and strengths. The profession offers numerous benefits, including job security, versatility, personal satisfaction, and accelerated education. However, it also comes with challenges, such as potential exposure to illness, educational requirements, and job-related stress.
Ultimately, prospective medical assistants must weigh the pros and cons to determine if this career aligns with their aspirations and lifestyle. If medical assisting seems like the right choice, taking the next step toward training and certification can open the door to a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare.
Preppy’s Medical Assistant Training Program
Overview
Preppy’s Medical Assistant Training Program is entirely online and self-paced, making it ideal for students who need flexibility. Preppy’s program is offered in partnership with Auburn University, providing a reputable university certificate upon completion.
Program Highlights
- Mode of Delivery: 100% online and self-paced.
- Program Duration: Can be completed in as little as 4 to 6 months, with access for up to a year.
- Tuition Cost: $1,599, which includes training materials.
- Certification: Prepares students for the CCMA certification exam.
- Practical Experience: Includes an externship opportunity at a local healthcare facility.
- Additional Benefits: Offers job assistance services for eligible graduates and a free laptop if you pay the tuition in full.
Also read: If I Was Starting Over as a Medical Assistant, Here’s What I’d Do!
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, whose work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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