FAQ About Medical Assistants
With a growing demand in the medical profession, medical assistants are needed in a multitude of healthcare settings. These professionals have unique training that allows them to handle both clinical and administrative tasks, making them invaluable in a busy medical practice. This specialized education is available nationwide, with some excellent programs in Fort Collins, CO for those who wish to attend school in that part of the country.
These questions will help people decide if they should pursue a medical assisting degree:
What Are a Medical Assistant’s Responsibilities?
Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks to assist physicians in treating patients and managing records. This may include filing and updating records, coding, working with insurance, bookkeeping and answering telephones. On the clinical side, it may include helping with exams, preparing specimens, performing some laboratory tests, drawing blood, taking EKGs, removing sutures and taking medical histories, depending on the laws of the state.
How are Medical Assistants and Physicians’ Assistants Different?
Medical assistants perform both clinical and administrative tasks, whereas physicians’ assistants focus entirely on the clinical side of the equation. Both work under the direct supervision of a physician, however.
What Is the Work Environment of a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants will work in clinical settings or hospitals, although most will work in outpatient or ambulatory facilities, alongside physicians. They typically work a traditional full-time work week, but evening or weekend work may be required depending on the services offered at the clinic.
What Training Is Needed for a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants can attend Fort Collins colleges to attain a medical assisting degree. In addition, these professionals may choose certification through the American Association of Medical Assistants. The CMA (AAMA) Certification Examination, which gives the student the designation of Certified Medical Assistant, is available to graduates of medical assisting programs that have received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. Showing this certification gives the medical assistant proof that he or she has achieved a high standard of education.
Medical assisting can be an excellent way to enjoy a career in the medical field, without becoming a doctor or nurse. With a number of programs available to teach the skills and information necessary, many can pursue this rewarding career option.
