If you want to become a medical assistant in a specialized field and are not sure about which one, then becoming a Podiatric Medical Assistant might offer a meaningful and engaging career.
Podiatric medical assistants are professionals who assist podiatrists—doctors who specialize in foot, ankle, and lower extremity care.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss everything about this career, right from their work setting, and earning potential to job prospects, roles and responsibilities, and the skills required to succeed in this role.
Moreover, we’ll try to give you a rough idea of a day in the life of a Podiatric Medical Assistant, so you have a clear understanding of the role.
Lastly, we have for you a step-by-step guide that could help you start this career faster, at an affordable cost, from an accredited institution, in as little as 6 months.
So, let’s get started.
Podiatric Medical Assistant
Podiatric Medical Assistants are healthcare professionals who support podiatrists in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the feet, ankles, and lower legs.
They assist in both clinical and administrative tasks, including preparing patients for exams, managing medical histories, sterilizing equipment, and assisting in procedures like wound care and minor surgeries.
Their expertise helps alleviate pain and improve the mobility of patients, which is crucial for maintaining overall health.
In addition to direct patient interaction, podiatric medical assistants also handle clerical responsibilities such as scheduling, billing, and managing insurance claims.
Work Environment
Podiatric medical assistants work in a variety of healthcare settings. In any setting, podiatric medical assistants collaborate with healthcare teams to offer patients comprehensive care.
These include:
Podiatry Clinics
The most common setting, where assistants support podiatrists in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the feet and lower limbs.
Hospitals
They may assist in surgical procedures or care for patients with diabetes or other conditions affecting foot health.
Outpatient Centers
These facilities offer specialized treatment for injuries, rehabilitation, or routine podiatric care.
Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities
As many elderly patients require podiatric care, assistants may work in settings catering to long-term care residents.
Earning Potential
According to the BLS, as of 2023, the median annual wage for medical assistants, including podiatric medical assistants, is around $42,000.
The top earners in the field make over $56,480 per year, while those just starting out earn around $33,500 annually.
The salary can vary depending on factors like location, years of experience, and certifications.
However, assistants working in specialized areas, like podiatry, may command higher salaries due to their specific skill set and knowledge.
Job Prospect
The demand for Medical Assistants, including Podiatric medical assistant profession is expected to grow significantly in the coming years.
The BLS projects a 15% growth in employment for medical assistants from 2023 to 2033, translating to roughly 119,800 job openings annually.
This growth is driven by an aging population that will require more healthcare services, particularly in podiatric care, as issues like diabetes and mobility limitations become more prevalent.
Job Duties of Podiatric Medical Assistants
Podiatric Medical Assistants play a key role in helping podiatrists provide specialized care to patients with foot, ankle, and lower leg conditions.
Their duties encompass a combination of clinical tasks, patient interaction, and administrative work. This makes them essential to any podiatry office or clinic.
Let’s explore their key responsibilities:
Assisting with Patient Examinations
Podiatric Medical Assistants help prepare patients for their examinations by taking their vital signs, gathering medical histories, and setting up the necessary equipment.
For instance, when a patient comes in with a suspected foot injury, the assistant will document the symptoms, prepare the X-ray machine if needed, and make sure the podiatrist has all the relevant information to start the exam.
Wound Care and Dressing Changes
One of the critical clinical duties is assisting with wound care, especially for patients with diabetes or those recovering from foot surgery.
This might involve cleaning wounds, applying or changing bandages, and educating patients on proper foot care to avoid infection.
For example, they may assist in cleaning a post-operative wound and ensure that it’s properly dressed to promote healing.
Casting and Bracing Assistance
For patients requiring foot or ankle support, Podiatric Medical Assistants assist with fitting casts or braces. They may help immobilize a fractured foot or fit the patient with orthopedic devices like braces or splints.
This ensures that the patient’s injury heals properly while maintaining comfort and mobility.
Performing Diagnostic Tests
Podiatric Medical Assistants are often responsible for conducting basic diagnostic tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, or gait analysis.
For instance, if a patient is suffering from chronic foot pain, the assistant may take an X-ray to determine if there’s any structural damage, such as a fracture or bone misalignment.
Patient Education
Education is an essential part of the job, as Podiatric Medical Assistants teach patients how to care for their feet, particularly those with chronic conditions like diabetes.
They provide advice on foot hygiene, how to use orthotics, or how to perform exercises to maintain foot health.
For example, after foot surgery, they might explain to the patient how to change bandages and what signs of infection to watch out for.
Scheduling and Administrative Tasks
On the administrative side, they handle appointment scheduling, billing, and updating patient records.
For example, after a patient has completed their visit, the Podiatric Medical Assistant will schedule follow-up appointments, ensure the patient’s chart is updated, and may even manage insurance claims related to the treatment.
Assisting in Minor Surgical Procedures
Podiatric Medical Assistants also assist during minor in-office surgeries, such as toenail removals or bunion treatments. They help by sterilizing instruments, preparing the surgical area, and handing instruments to the podiatrist during the procedure.
Skills of Podiatric Medical Assistants
Podiatric Medical Assistants require a specific set of skills to support podiatrists in providing effective care to patients with foot and lower limb issues.
Let’s explore some of the essential skills:
Clinical Proficiency
A strong foundation in clinical skills is essential for Podiatric Medical Assistants, as they assist with various medical procedures.
For example, they need to be adept at cleaning wounds, changing dressings, and performing diagnostic tests like X-rays. This requires a deep understanding of sterilization protocols, infection control, and patient care techniques to ensure procedures are conducted safely and effectively.
They also assist with minor surgical procedures, such as removing ingrown toenails, so precision and clinical competence are crucial.
Knowledge of Podiatric Anatomy
Since they work specifically in podiatry, Podiatric Medical Assistants must have a thorough understanding of foot and lower limb anatomy.
This knowledge enables them to assist podiatrists in diagnosing and treating conditions such as fractures, bunions, and plantar fasciitis.
For instance, when preparing a patient for X-rays, they need to know the correct positioning of the foot to capture the area of concern accurately. Their expertise also helps them explain treatment plans and procedures to patients with clarity.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Strong communication skills are essential for Podiatric Medical Assistants, as they frequently interact with patients, explaining treatment plans, educating them on foot care, and addressing their concerns.
Patients may be anxious, especially when dealing with pain or post-surgical care, so the ability to communicate calmly and clearly is vital.
For example, explaining how to change a dressing or manage diabetic foot care at home requires patience and an empathetic approach. Effective communication with colleagues and podiatrists is also important to ensure the smooth running of the clinic.
Attention to Detail
Podiatric Medical Assistants need to be detail-oriented, especially when it comes to maintaining patient records, preparing instruments, or assisting during procedures.
For instance, when sterilizing surgical tools, any oversight can result in infection, so precision is critical. Additionally, accurate record-keeping ensures that podiatrists have all the necessary information at hand when diagnosing and treating patients.
In podiatry, where many patients have chronic conditions, such as diabetes, attention to detail in wound care can be the difference between healing and infection.
Patient Care and Empathy
Working closely with patients who may experience significant discomfort or pain requires a high level of empathy and care.
Podiatric Medical Assistants often provide support to elderly patients or those with chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes. They may need to assist these patients with mobility issues or provide comforting care after minor surgeries.
For example, they might gently help a patient remove footwear or explain self-care techniques for post-surgery recovery. Empathy helps in building rapport with patients, making their experience more comfortable and reassuring.
Organizational and Time Management Skills
In a busy podiatry practice, Podiatric Medical Assistants must juggle multiple tasks, from scheduling appointments to assisting with procedures. Strong organizational skills help them prioritize their duties effectively.
For example, they might need to prepare a patient for an exam while also ensuring that the next patient’s records are ready and the necessary equipment for a procedure is sterilized. Efficient time management ensures that the clinic runs smoothly, and patients are seen on time.
Adaptability and Problem-Solving
Podiatric practices can vary in pace, with some days requiring assistants to think quickly and adapt to new situations.
For instance, if a patient’s condition worsens unexpectedly during an exam, the assistant needs to respond promptly by alerting the podiatrist and providing immediate assistance.
Adaptability also means being able to handle various administrative tasks, such as billing and coding, along with clinical duties. This flexibility ensures that they can handle any challenges that arise during the day.
A Day in the Life of a Podiatric Medical Assistant
A Podiatric Medical Assistant juggles a variety of tasks—clinical, administrative, and patient-care related—making them a crucial part of the healthcare team.
Their ability to balance these duties ensures that patients receive the highest quality care and that the podiatry office runs efficiently.
Here’s what a day in their life looks like:
Early Morning: Setting Up for the Day
A typical day for a Podiatric Medical Assistant starts early, often before the first patient arrives. The morning usually begins by preparing the clinic or podiatry office.
This includes sterilizing and setting up instruments that will be needed for the day’s procedures, such as scalpels, forceps, and other podiatric tools.
The assistant ensures that the treatment rooms are ready, which involves stocking them with bandages, disinfectants, and other necessary medical supplies. This preparation allows for a smooth workflow when patients begin to arrive.
Along with the physical setup, the assistant reviews the day’s schedule, checks patient charts, verifies appointments, and ensures all necessary documentation is in order.
If there are patients coming in for follow-up visits after surgery or other treatments, the assistant familiarizes themselves with the cases to offer personalized care.
Mid-Morning: Patient Intake and Exams
As the first patients of the day begin to arrive, the Podiatric Medical Assistant shifts focus to patient intake. This involves greeting patients, verifying their medical history, and updating their records.
For instance, patients with chronic conditions like diabetes often require updates on their treatment plans, so the assistant ensures all the latest information is gathered.
During podiatric exams, the assistant helps prepare patients by guiding them to the examination room and explaining the procedure. Whether it’s taking X-rays, prepping for a toenail removal, or assisting in applying a cast for a foot fracture, the assistant’s role is vital.
For example, if a patient is there for treatment of plantar fasciitis, the assistant might help the podiatrist by positioning the patient correctly for examination or preparing the necessary injections.
Lunchtime: Administrative Duties
Around midday, there is often a brief pause in inpatient appointments, providing time to catch up on administrative duties. This part of the day may involve tasks such as inputting data into the clinic’s electronic health records (EHR) system, organizing patient files, or scheduling follow-up appointments.
If lab work or X-rays were done earlier in the day, the assistant may also handle communications with laboratories or review reports with the podiatrist.
It’s also common for Podiatric Medical Assistants to manage some of the billing and insurance paperwork. This may include preparing claims for procedures performed that day or discussing insurance coverage with patients, ensuring they understand their medical bills and payment options.
Afternoon: Assisting with Procedures and Patient Education
The afternoon is often the busiest time, with back-to-back patient appointments. During this time, Podiatric Medical Assistants often assist with minor surgical procedures, such as the removal of ingrown toenails or draining abscesses.
Their responsibilities during these procedures include setting up a sterile environment, handing instruments to the podiatrist, and monitoring the patient’s condition throughout the process. After each procedure, the assistant plays a key role in educating patients on post-care.
For example, if a patient has just had a toenail removed, the assistant will explain how to care for the wound at home, including how to change dressings, what signs of infection to watch for, and when to return for a follow-up visit. This is especially important for patients with diabetes or other conditions that impact healing.
Late Afternoon: Wrapping Up the Day
As the day winds down, the Podiatric Medical Assistant begins the process of cleaning up and preparing for the next day. This involves disinfecting the treatment rooms, cleaning and sterilizing instruments used throughout the day, and restocking supplies.
If any equipment needs maintenance or ordering, the assistant makes sure these tasks are handled promptly.
At the end of the day, there may also be time to catch up on the remaining administrative work. This could include ensuring all patient records are updated and preparing any final insurance claims.
The assistant might also spend time coordinating with patients to schedule follow-up visits, ensuring all their post-care instructions are clear before they leave.
How to Become a Podiatric Medical Assistant?
If you’re interested in the medical field and want a rewarding role assisting podiatrists in treating foot and ankle issues, becoming a Podiatric Medical Assistant is a great option.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to starting this career path:
Step 1 -> Get a High School Diploma
The first step in becoming a Podiatric Medical Assistant is to obtain your high school diploma or an equivalent qualification, such as a GED.
During high school, it’s helpful to focus on subjects like biology, health sciences, and anatomy, as these will form the foundation of your knowledge in healthcare.
Remember – A high school diploma is essential for entry into a medical assistant program.
Step 2 -> Enroll in a Medical Assistant Program
Once you’ve completed high school, the next step is to enroll in a medical assistant program. Formal education is often the fastest route to becoming a medical assistant, equipping you with both clinical and administrative skills.
However, the full-time programs are expensive and take longer to complete, often spanning 12 to 24 months. For adults with busy schedules, these programs may not be ideal.
In contrast, Online programs offer a better alternative. They are typically more affordable, allow you to study at your own pace, and are more accessible to adults juggling work or family commitments.
One standout online option is Preppy’s self-paced medical assistant training program.
- Preppy offers a flexible, user-friendly program that allows you to balance your studies with personal and professional obligations.
- You can study at your own pace, without the burden of student loans or the need to travel to a physical campus.
- The program offers a certificate of completion from Auburn University, a prestigious institution with 150 years of history, lending strong credibility to your qualifications.
- You’ll also get an externship opportunity near your location, and the program could help you become ready for national certification exams such as the CCMA through NHA, allowing you to potentially become job-ready in as little as six months.
- With 24/7 support for both technical and course-related inquiries, help is always available when needed.
- Currently, there’s a special offer where you can receive a free laptop upon enrollment, which remains yours even after completing the course.
- All of this is offered at an incredibly affordable price of just $1,599, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional programs.
So, Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program could be the best choice if you’re looking for a faster, more affordable way to become job-ready without driving to campus or without student debt.
Step 3 -> Complete the Coursework
Completing the required coursework is essential. This will cover a range of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy, pharmacology, and patient care.
Additionally, you’ll gain administrative skills like managing patient records and insurance billing. A strong grasp of clinical and administrative duties is critical for success in the role of a medical assistant.
Step 4 -> Get Externship Experience
Practical experience is key to becoming a successful Podiatric Medical Assistant. After completing your coursework, you should try to complete an externship, where you gain hands-on experience working in a real healthcare setting.
During your externship, you will assist with patient care, help prepare for podiatric procedures, and familiarize yourself with the day-to-day operations of a podiatric office.
Step 5 -> Prepare for Certification and Get CCMA Certified
Certification can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Upon completing your education and externship, you will need to prepare for and take the CCMA (Certified Clinical Medical Assistant) exam.
Being certified demonstrates your proficiency in both clinical and administrative tasks, increasing your chances of landing a job.
Preppy’s program could help you become CCMA-certification-ready, providing all the resources and materials you need to pass the exam successfully.
Step 6 -> Work as a Medical Assistant
Once you have your certification, you are ready to start working as a medical assistant. Many new medical assistants begin in general medical settings, gaining valuable experience.
During this time, you’ll continue to build your skills, handling both administrative duties like scheduling and clinical tasks such as patient prep and assisting during procedures.
Step 7 -> Specialize in Podiatry
When the opportunity arises, you can transition into a podiatric specialty. You may begin by working in a general medical office and then apply for positions in podiatric clinics or seek additional certification in podiatric care.
With experience, you will be able to assist podiatrists in treating foot and ankle conditions and learn specialized skills like wound care, orthotic fitting, and surgical assistance.
The transition into this specialized field can open new doors for your career and provide you with opportunities for growth and advancement in the healthcare sector.
So, becoming a Podiatric Medical Assistant can be a rewarding career choice, especially if you’re passionate about helping patients maintain their mobility and quality of life.
With the right education and hands-on experience, this role offers an exciting pathway into the specialized world of podiatry.
In Conclusion
A career as a Podiatric Medical Assistant offers a specialized path within the broader healthcare field.
With steady job prospects, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a real impact in patients’ lives, this profession is an attractive option for those looking to start or shift their careers into healthcare.
By choosing to specialize in podiatry, you can become an indispensable part of a healthcare team dedicated to helping patients improve their mobility and overall quality of life.
Ultimately, if you want to become job-ready as a Medical Assistant faster, without driving to campus or without any student debt, then check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
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