If you’re interested in a career in healthcare but don’t want to work in the same place every day, then a career as a traveling medical assistant could be a perfect fit.
Whether you enjoy the fast-paced energy of large cities or the tranquility of rural settings, being a travel medical assistant gives you the flexibility to work in a variety of healthcare facilities across the country, often in short-term assignments.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything about this career, from their salary and job prospects to their job duties and skills.
Moreover, we’ll try to give you a sneak peek at a day in their life so you can understand this career better.
Lastly, we have helped you by creating a step-by-step guide that could help you start this career in as little as 6 months without driving to college or without any student loan debt.
So, let’s get started.
Traveling Medical Assistant
A Traveling Medical Assistant is a healthcare professional who performs the traditional duties of a medical assistant but in various locations, often traveling to different clinics, hospitals, or healthcare facilities as needed.
Unlike regular medical assistants who typically work in one specific location, travel medical assistants are employed through staffing agencies that send them to healthcare facilities facing staffing shortages or high demand.
They may work in different states, rural areas, or even internationally, depending on the assignment. The job requires a high level of flexibility and adaptability, as the environments and protocols may vary from one facility to another.
For those who enjoy change, exploration, and adapting to new environments, a career as a traveling medical assistant offers not only variety but also competitive pay, travel opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact across multiple healthcare settings.
Work Settings
Traveling Medical Assistants work in a variety of healthcare settings due to the nature of their job, which requires flexibility and adaptability.
These varied settings offer travel medical assistants a diverse range of experiences and the chance to expand their skills while meeting healthcare needs across different environments.
Some of the common work settings include:
Hospitals
Many hospitals, especially those in rural or underserved areas, rely on traveling medical assistants to fill staffing gaps. They may work in various departments, assisting with patient care, administrative duties, or clinical tasks.
Clinics and Private Practices
Traveling medical assistants are often placed in clinics or private medical offices that require temporary staffing solutions. They assist with tasks such as scheduling appointments, taking patient vitals, and preparing patients for examinations.
Urgent Care Centers
In high-demand settings like urgent care facilities, traveling medical assistants help manage patient intake, perform minor procedures, and provide support to healthcare providers during peak times.
Long-Term Care Facilities
Nursing homes and rehabilitation centers may employ traveling medical assistants to assist with patient care, medical record management, and other healthcare-related tasks.
Specialty Clinics
Medical assistants may be assigned to specialty clinics, such as cardiology or dermatology practices, where they assist with specialized procedures and patient care.
Home Healthcare
In some cases, traveling medical assistants might work with home healthcare agencies, visiting patients in their homes to provide medical care or assist in managing chronic conditions.
Earning Potential
The earning potential for traveling medical assistants can vary depending on factors like location, experience, and demand.
On average, traveling medical assistants earn higher wages than those in permanent positions due to the need for flexibility and the costs associated with travel.
According to BLS’s 2023 data, the median annual wage for medical assistants, including Traveling 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.
Moreover, some employers may offer additional benefits such as travel stipends, housing allowances, and bonuses.
Job prospects
The job prospects for traveling medical assistants are strong due to the increasing demand for healthcare workers, especially in rural and underserved areas.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% growth rate for medical assistant jobs between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. This equates to about 119,800 new job openings each year.
As healthcare systems continue to expand and face staffing shortages, traveling medical assistants will be in greater demand, making this a promising career path.
The versatility and flexibility of traveling roles also open up opportunities in a wide range of healthcare settings across the country.
How Do Contracts and Assignments Work for Traveling Medical Assistants?
Traveling medical assistants work under short-term contracts, typically arranged through staffing agencies or directly with healthcare facilities.
These contracts can vary in length and are usually set up to fill temporary staffing shortages across the country.
Depending on the need, contracts can be established for different healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or specialty practices, giving traveling medical assistants the flexibility to work in diverse environments.
Contract duration usually ranges from 4 weeks to 6 months, with some contracts offering the possibility of extension or even permanent positions upon completion.
As a traveling medical assistant, your job assignments can come on short notice, requiring you to be prepared to relocate within a week or two. Flexibility and quick adaptability are essential as you may be sent to various locations based on immediate needs.
Traveling medical assistants are typically paid on an hourly basis, and this rate can fluctuate depending on the location of the assignment, the urgency, and the facility’s budget.
In addition to hourly wages, most contracts include a weekly stipend meant to help cover living expenses, though you are often responsible for all relocation and housing costs. Unlike traditional jobs, travel contracts do not usually provide relocation assistance, so it’s essential to budget for moving expenses.
Contracts also come with varying terms, which may include different work schedules, specific clinical responsibilities, and performance expectations.
Depending on the facility, you may also have the opportunity to accept further contracts in the same location or move to a new assignment once your contract is completed.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Traveling Medical Assistant
Traveling medical assistants have a unique set of roles and responsibilities, as they are hired to provide healthcare services on a temporary basis in various healthcare settings across different locations.
Their flexibility allows them to fill critical gaps in patient care in areas where healthcare providers are needed the most.
Here’s a breakdown of their key responsibilities:
Patient Care and Preparation
Traveling medical assistants are responsible for clinical work like preparing patients for exams by taking vital signs, collecting medical histories, and ensuring they are comfortable before seeing the physician.
For instance, they may work in a clinic in a rural area where they take on the role of greeting patients, taking blood pressure, and recording symptoms for a cardiologist.
Administrative Duties
In addition to clinical work, traveling medical assistants handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, updating patient records, and managing billing.
An example could be assisting a small, understaffed practice in a different state by updating electronic health records (EHR) and managing insurance claims, all while ensuring HIPAA compliance.
Assisting in Procedures
Like their stationary counterparts, traveling medical assistants assist physicians during procedures. This could range from preparing the necessary instruments to helping during minor surgeries.
For instance, in an urgent care clinic, they might assist a physician with suturing a wound, while ensuring all tools are properly sterilized.
Phlebotomy and Laboratory Work
Many traveling medical assistants are skilled in drawing blood and conducting basic laboratory tests.
In a scenario where they are filling in for a clinic’s regular staff, they might handle all lab duties, including drawing blood for diagnostic tests and processing samples in the lab.
Medication Administration
Traveling medical assistants may also be responsible for administering medications under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.
For example, they might be tasked with giving flu vaccines in a busy family practice during flu season or managing a diabetic patient’s insulin administration.
Flexibility and Adaptation to New Workplaces
The ability to adapt to various clinical environments is crucial. A traveling medical assistant might work in a hospital one week, a private clinic the next, and a rehabilitation center after that.
Each facility may have different protocols, software systems, and workflows, and it is their job to quickly learn and integrate into each setting smoothly.
Patient Education
In addition to assisting with care, traveling medical assistants often educate patients on post-visit care, such as how to manage a condition or take prescribed medications.
For example, while working in a dermatology clinic, they may explain aftercare instructions to a patient who has undergone a skin biopsy.
Skills of a Travel Medical Assistant
A travel medical assistant must possess a unique combination of clinical, administrative, and interpersonal skills to thrive in various healthcare settings.
Here’s an in-depth look at the essential skills of a travel medical assistant:
Clinical Proficiency
Travel medical assistants must have strong clinical skills to provide patient care across a variety of settings.
This includes proficiency in phlebotomy, taking vital signs, administering injections, and assisting physicians during procedures.
For instance, if a travel medical assistant is sent to a rural clinic, they may need to draw blood, manage electrocardiograms (EKGs), and perform wound care—all in a single shift.
Adaptability
Working in different locations demands flexibility and the ability to adjust to new healthcare systems and team dynamics quickly.
Travel medical assistants often find themselves working in hospitals, private clinics, or urgent care centers, each with its own set of procedures, workflows, and software systems.
This means they must learn new protocols on the go, often with little orientation, and thrive in varying environments.
Organizational Skills
They must manage administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and processing insurance paperwork.
Excellent organizational skills are required to ensure that even in a fast-paced, unfamiliar setting, all tasks are completed efficiently and records are kept accurately.
This is especially crucial when dealing with electronic health records (EHR) across different platforms.
Communication Skills
Whether interacting with patients, healthcare providers, or administrative staff, clear and effective communication is critical.
Travel medical assistants need to explain medical procedures to patients, provide aftercare instructions, and collaborate with teams in multiple locations.
For example, when transitioning between clinics, a travel medical assistant might have to brief new colleagues or hand off important patient information in a concise and accurate manner.
Problem-solving and Critical Thinking
In many cases, travel medical assistants work in locations where they are filling gaps in care, often with limited resources or support.
They must be able to assess situations, prioritize tasks, and troubleshoot unexpected challenges, such as equipment malfunctions or patient emergencies.
Cultural Competency and Empathy
Given that travel medical assistants work in different geographic regions and with diverse populations, cultural sensitivity and empathy are crucial.
They must understand and respect the cultural backgrounds and medical beliefs of their patients, which can enhance patient satisfaction and compliance with treatment plans.
For instance, working in a community with a large non-English speaking population might require the travel medical assistant to work with translators or use non-verbal cues to ensure proper communication.
Technical Skills
In an age of digitized healthcare, travel medical assistants must be proficient in various healthcare technologies.
From EHR software to medical devices, such as blood pressure monitors and glucose meters, they must operate and troubleshoot equipment confidently.
For example, when transitioning between facilities, they might need to quickly familiarize themselves with different EHR systems and charting procedures.
Time Management
Efficiently managing time is critical in both clinical and administrative tasks, especially when balancing high patient volumes with paperwork and other duties.
In a fast-paced setting like an urgent care center, a travel medical assistant may be juggling multiple patient appointments, phone calls, and administrative duties, all of which require effective time management to ensure smooth operations.
Teamwork and Collaboration
As they work with different healthcare teams across various settings, travel medical assistants must have excellent teamwork skills.
Whether collaborating with doctors, nurses, or other medical assistants, they need to build rapport quickly and contribute to a cohesive team effort, regardless of the duration of their assignment.
Attention to Detail
Accuracy is essential in all aspects of a travel medical assistant’s role, from administering medications to updating patient records.
For example, when entering a patient’s medical history or lab results into an EHR system, even a small mistake could have significant consequences.
Therefore, paying close attention to detail is crucial to ensure high standards of care and patient safety.
So, mastering these skills ensures that a traveling medical assistant not only meets the clinical demands of the job but also excels in the various settings and situations they encounter throughout their career.
A Day in the Life of a Travel Medical Assistant
A day in the life of a travel medical assistant is dynamic and filled with diverse experiences, as they navigate through various healthcare facilities and adapt to ever-changing environments.
From the moment they start their day, flexibility and readiness are crucial. This level of flexibility and varied responsibilities makes a travel medical assistant’s day unpredictable yet rewarding.
Here’s what a day in their life looks like:
Early Morning
The day usually begins with the travel medical assistant waking up in a new city or state, often staying in temporary accommodations provided by the staffing agency.
After preparing for the day, they head to the assigned clinic, hospital, or outpatient center. Upon arrival, they quickly adapt to the facility’s workflow, familiarizing themselves with the electronic health record system and reviewing patient schedules for the day.
The morning often includes routine tasks like checking patients’ vital signs, preparing examination rooms, and assisting physicians with morning consultations.
Late Morning
As the day progresses, travel medical assistants dive into more clinical duties. Depending on the specialization of the facility, they might assist in minor surgeries, perform diagnostic tests like EKGs, or handle routine patient follow-ups.
For example, if they are working at a cardiac clinic, they could assist in stress tests or echocardiograms. Their adaptability is tested as they often perform duties they’ve been trained for, but in different settings and using different equipment.
Afternoon
The afternoon might bring administrative tasks, such as updating patient records, managing appointments, and processing insurance claims.
As a travel medical assistant, they need to be adept at learning new administrative systems quickly. Patient interactions remain a constant, as they may need to educate patients on aftercare or explain procedures before consultations.
Since many travel medical assistants work in understaffed areas, they often play a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations throughout the clinic or hospital.
Late Afternoon
Toward the end of the day, they may assist with wrapping up the day’s tasks, including organizing charts, ensuring exam rooms are sanitized, and sometimes preparing patients for the following day’s procedures.
They might also communicate with the physician and nursing staff to ensure that all patient needs are met.
In some cases, travel medical assistants are required to report back to their staffing agency or prepare for another assignment in a different location.
Evening
At the end of a long, fulfilling day, they return to their temporary accommodation, often reflecting on the diverse challenges and learning experiences they encountered.
If they’re working in a region where they’ll be staying for a few weeks, they might use the evening to explore the area or prepare for the next day’s tasks.
Their day closes with a sense of accomplishment, knowing they’ve contributed to healthcare delivery across various communities, often where help is most needed.
How to Become a Traveling Medical Assistant?
Becoming a traveling medical assistant is an exciting career path that offers both the chance to explore new places and to contribute meaningfully to healthcare facilities in need.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving this rewarding career:
Step 1 -> Get a High School Diploma
The first requirement for becoming a traveling medical assistant is earning a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED. This establishes the foundation of your education and is essential for enrolling in a medical assistant program.
Step 2 -> Enroll in a Medical Assistant Program
Once you’ve completed high school, the next step is enrolling in a medical assistant training program. Formal education is considered the fastest route to this career.
Traditional full-time programs can be time-consuming and often aren’t ideal for adult learners because they tend to be expensive and require a longer commitment.
For students who need a more flexible solution, online programs are a better option. They tend to be quicker, more affordable, and tailored for adult learners.
One standout option is Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program, which is designed to make the learning process flexible and accessible.
It allows students to complete their coursework at their own pace and offers features like:
- You can study at your convenience, making it a perfect choice for working adults or those with busy schedules.
- The program is much more cost-effective compared to traditional education paths. This program is priced at an insanely affordable price of $1599.
- You could become ready to take the CCMA exam by finishing the course in as little as 4 months.
- Preppy helps students with a local externship opportunity, a vital part of hands-on learning.
- You also get access to round-the-clock technical and academic support.
- The program offers a certificate of completion from accredited, non-profit, Auburn University, a prestigious institution with 150 years of history.
- Lastly, there’s a big bonus, where you can receive a free laptop upon enrollment, which remains yours even after completing the course.
So, if you’re looking for a faster, affordable way to become job-ready as a medical assistant without driving to college or without any student debt, then check out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
Step 3 -> Complete the Coursework
Once enrolled, you’ll need to complete your coursework, which includes both theoretical and practical components.
The courses typically cover clinical skills like taking vital signs, administering injections, and performing lab procedures, along with administrative tasks like managing patient records and billing.
Step 4 -> Get Externship
An externship allows you to gain hands-on experience in a healthcare facility, working directly with patients and other healthcare professionals.
Most medical assistant programs, including Preppy, offer externship placement to ensure you get practical experience.
This stage of training is critical as it provides real-world exposure and helps you apply the knowledge you’ve gained in the classroom.
Step 5 -> Prepare for Certification and Get CCMA Certified
Once you’ve completed your education and externship, it’s time to prepare for and pass the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
Certification is not mandatory in all states, but it significantly boosts your credibility and earning potential.
The CCMA certification, provided by the NHA, is one of the most widely recognized credentials and will make you job-ready.
Step 6 -> Work as a Medical Assistant
With certification in hand, the next step is gaining experience as a medical assistant. Start working in clinics, hospitals, or other healthcare facilities to sharpen your skills and gain professional expertise.
Building experience in a variety of settings will help you become more adaptable, a crucial skill for a traveling medical assistant.
Step 7 -> Accept Travel Medical Assistant Roles
Once you’ve gained some experience and are comfortable with your skills, you can begin applying for travel medical assistant positions through staffing agencies.
These roles often involve short-term assignments in different healthcare facilities around the country. You’ll have the chance to work in diverse environments, from rural clinics to large hospitals, while traveling to new locations.
Be sure to maintain a high level of flexibility and adaptability, as you’ll need to quickly adjust to new surroundings and teams.
In Conclusion
Traveling medical assistants play a crucial role in ensuring continuity of care across various healthcare settings, all while enjoying the flexibility of changing work environments.
It’s a career path that offers a unique combination of medical expertise and adventure, perfect for those who don’t want to be confined to one location.
We hope this article gives you a clear understanding of this career, from the earning potential to a day in your life, and how you can start this amazing career.
So, if you want to potentially become job-ready as a medical assistant faster, at an affordable price, without driving to college, then you could consider checking out Preppy’s Self-Paced Medical Assistant Training Program.
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