If you are looking for a medical career that doesn’t require you to be in school for a long time, then you can become a medical assistant. Medical assistants perform clerical and administrative duties. They also perform medical duties, such as taking vital signs and giving injections. They typically work in clinics or doctor’s offices. There are several steps that you can take in order to become a medical assistant.
Complete On-the-Job Training
Most employers prefer people who have completed post-secondary training. However, you may be able to become a medical assistant right out of high school. If you are still in high school, then you should take biology and chemistry courses. You can complete the training that you need on-the-job. Being able to complete on the job training right there while at work makes receiving your assisting certification much easier. You can work hard and know that you’re progressing forward in your career at the same time.
Complete a Medical Assistant Program
There are several medical assistant programs that you can choose from. You can complete a one year program at a technical school or community college. You can also work at earning an associate’s degree. It will take you two or three years to earn an associate’s degree. Any program that you complete will include anatomy, physiology, medical laws, business computer applications, and clinical laboratory procedures. All these various parts of your degree will help you become a master of the medical field so that you can fulfill your duties as a medical assistant competently. You will also know that you and your work are making a difference in people’s lives each and every day.
Online Options
Online medical assistant programs are rare. However, they will likely become more common because more people are opting to study online. If you choose to complete an online program, then it is important for you to make sure that you choose one that is accredited. You will also have to complete in-person clinicals. One of the benefits that come along with studying online is that you will be able to do your coursework in your own time. This is ideal for people who do not have a lot of time. You will be able to take your classes during the evening and on the weekends.
Get Licensed
You will have to get licensed before you can become a medical assistant. You will need to take an exam. The American Association of Medical Assistants allows people to take exams three times a year. You will also have to renew your certification every five years. Be sure to keep your certification up to date at all times so that you can continue practicing your art. You do not want anything to stand between you and your work. After all, this is your job.
A career in medical assisting can be quite rewarding. You can complete an on-the-job training and start your medical assisting career immediately. You can also complete a medical assisting program and earn an online program or associate’s degree. After you complete the proper training, you will need to get licensed.
