Embarking on a career as a medical assistant is both challenging and rewarding, offering a unique blend of patient care and administrative duties in the healthcare field. Many professionals look back on their journey with valuable insights, recognizing the decisions they would keep and the changes they would make if they were starting over as a medical assistant. Here’s a guide to help those just beginning this career path avoid potential pitfalls and lay a solid foundation for success.
1. Prioritizing Certification: A Crucial Step
Getting certified is one of the most critical steps in becoming a successful medical assistant. Employers often look for this credential when hiring, as it serves as proof that a candidate has undergone the proper education and training. Certification not only shows an understanding of the clinical aspects of the job but also demonstrates knowledge of the legalities and logistics of working in a medical facility, ensuring safe and effective patient care.
While some professionals work without medical assistant certification, it limits future job prospects. Securing new employment in a different medical facility without certification can be difficult. Some employers do hire non-certified medical assistants but often set a probationary period during which the new hires must become certified. This approach can be risky, as there is a strict time limit between graduation and certification. Exceeding this limit may require repeating the entire education and clinical training process.
For example, those who secure employment immediately after an externship might work without certification for a short period. However, should they wish to change jobs or if an unexpected event like a doctor’s retirement forces them to seek new employment, lacking certification could present a major obstacle. Therefore, taking the certification exam as soon as possible is highly recommended to avoid complications in the long run.
2. Externships: The Cornerstone of Learning
An externship is often the most valuable part of a medical assistant’s education and training. This real-world, hands-on experience provides an opportunity to learn new skills that may not be covered in a classroom setting. Working alongside seasoned professionals during an externship cultivates a deeper understanding of patient care and helps in developing a personal communication style to make patients feel comfortable.
An externship also builds confidence in clinical abilities. While textbooks and lectures provide a strong foundation, applying those skills in real-life situations is invaluable. Moreover, an externship serves as a crucial phase where aspiring medical assistants can determine whether this career is truly the right fit. Many find that the hands-on nature of an externship solidifies their passion for medical assisting, making it a must-have experience.
3. Diploma vs. Degree: Making the Right Choice
One common question among aspiring medical assistants is whether to pursue a diploma or a degree. In many cases, a diploma is sufficient for entering the field. The diploma route provides the necessary training and credentials to begin working as a medical assistant without the additional time and expense associated with a degree program.
Research shows that there is often no significant difference in starting salary or job opportunities between diploma and degree holders in medical assisting. Both qualifications typically lead to similar entry-level positions. The primary distinction is that a degree may open the door to becoming a medical assistant instructor. However, for those focused on working directly with patients, physicians, and healthcare teams, a diploma generally suffices.
Choosing a diploma over a degree can also alleviate financial pressure, as diploma programs tend to be less costly and shorter in duration. For individuals looking to enter the workforce quickly and minimize student debt, a diploma can be the more practical option.
4. The Role of Online Education: An Alternative Path
In the past, pursuing a medical assistant education often required relocating and paying for tuition, housing, and other expenses. However, online education has since emerged as a viable alternative. Programs that offer online learning with an internship or externship component provide a flexible, affordable way to gain the necessary skills and experience.
While some students prefer face-to-face learning, online medical assistant programs can be a fast track to starting a career in medical assisting. These programs accommodate busy schedules and reduce the overall financial burden, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a more flexible and cost-effective education path.
5. Take Advantage of Educational Resources
Aspiring medical assistants should leverage the wealth of educational resources available to them. For instance, some free master classes provide comprehensive overviews of the medical assistant’s role and offer detailed blueprints for entering the field in just a few months. Exploring these resources can help clarify the responsibilities of the job and outline the steps necessary to succeed.
Continuing education is equally important for those already working in the field. Healthcare practices and technologies evolve rapidly, and staying informed about the latest advancements ensures that medical assistants can provide the best possible care to patients and contribute effectively to their healthcare teams.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Medical Assistants
For those considering a career in medical assisting, here are some crucial insights to guide the process:
- Get Certified Early: Although working without certification is possible, obtaining certification as soon as possible provides job security and flexibility. It also avoids the risk of having to redo the education process due to certification deadlines.
- Value the Externship Experience: Hands-on learning through an externship is invaluable. This experience allows aspiring medical assistants to develop their skills, gain confidence, and determine if this career is the right fit.
- Choose Between Diploma and Degree Based on Goals: A diploma is typically sufficient for those focused on direct patient care. A degree is mainly advantageous for those interested in teaching or academic roles within medical assisting. Consider the financial and time commitments of each option.
- Consider Online Programs: Online education, particularly programs that include internships or externships, can be an efficient and cost-effective way to gain the necessary training. This path offers flexibility for individuals who may have work or family commitments.
- Continue Learning: Utilize free courses, master classes, and other resources to gain a comprehensive understanding of the medical assistant role. Ongoing education is vital for career advancement and maintaining proficiency in a dynamic healthcare environment.
Final Thoughts
Starting a career as a medical assistant is an exciting journey that requires careful planning and informed decision-making. Certification, externship experiences, and choosing the right educational path are key elements of building a successful career in this field. By learning from the experiences of those who have already navigated this path and share their thoughts if they could start over as a medical assistant, aspiring professionals can make choices that align with their goals and avoid common pitfalls.
For those ready to take the first step, explore the various educational resources and programs available to begin the journey toward becoming a certified medical assistant. With dedication and the right preparation, this career can be both rewarding and fulfilling.
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: 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 placement services for eligible graduates and a free laptop if you pay the tuition in full.
Also read: Medical Assistant Salary
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s 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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