What is a Certified Medical Assistant Job?
A certified medical assistant job is an important position within the healthcare industry. Medical assistants are responsible for a variety of tasks, ranging from administrative duties to clinical procedures. They work under the supervision of physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive proper care.
Medical assistants are an essential part of any medical facility, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. These individuals are often the first point of contact for patients, and they play a critical role in making sure the medical facility runs smoothly.
What do Certified Medical Assistants Usually Do in This Position?
Certified medical assistants perform a variety of tasks, including administrative duties and clinical procedures. Some of their responsibilities may include:
- Checking patients in and out of appointments
- Answering phones and scheduling appointments
- Recording patient information in medical records
- Taking vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature
- Drawing blood and preparing specimens for laboratory testing
- Administering medications and injections
- Assisting with minor surgical procedures
- Performing EKGs and pulmonary function tests
These are just a few examples of the many tasks that certified medical assistants may be responsible for on a daily basis.
Top 5 Skills for This Position
To be successful in a certified medical assistant job, there are several important skills that you should possess. Some of the most important skills include:
- Attention to Detail: Medical assistants must be extremely detail-oriented to ensure that patient records are accurate and that procedures are performed correctly.
- Communication: Good communication skills are essential for medical assistants, as they need to communicate effectively with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
- Organizational Skills: Medical assistants must be highly organized to manage patient schedules, medical records, and other administrative tasks.
- Technical Skills: Medical assistants should be comfortable using a variety of medical equipment and software programs, including electronic medical records (EMRs).
- Empathy: Medical assistants should be compassionate and empathetic, as they often work with patients who are in pain or experiencing discomfort.
How to Become a Certified Medical Assistant
To become a certified medical assistant, you will need to complete an accredited medical assisting program. These programs typically take between 9 and 12 months to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
After completing a medical assisting program, you will need to pass the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam. This exam is administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and covers a variety of topics, including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and medical law and ethics.
Once you have passed the CMA exam, you will be eligible to apply for certified medical assistant jobs.
Average Salary for Certified Medical Assistants
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for medical assistants was $35,850 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on a variety of factors, including years of experience, geographic location, and type of healthcare facility.
Roles and Types of Certified Medical Assistant Jobs
Certified medical assistant jobs can vary depending on the specific healthcare facility and the needs of the patients. Some common roles and types of certified medical assistant jobs include:
- Administrative Medical Assistant: These individuals are responsible for managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and other administrative tasks.
- Clinical Medical Assistant: These individuals assist physicians with patient care, including taking vital signs and administering medications.
- Specialty Medical Assistant: These individuals work in specialized areas of medicine, such as cardiology, pediatrics, or dermatology.
There are also opportunities for certified medical assistants to advance their careers by pursuing additional education and training, such as becoming a registered nurse or physician assistant.
Locations with the Most Popular Certified Medical Assistant Jobs in the USA
Certified medical assistant jobs can be found in healthcare facilities throughout the United States. Some of the locations with the most popular certified medical assistant jobs include:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
However, there are opportunities for medical assistants in virtually every state.
What are the Typical Tools Used in Certified Medical Assistant Jobs?
Certified medical assistants use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their job duties. Some of the most common tools include:
- Electronic Medical Records (EMRs)
- Blood pressure cuffs
- Thermometers
- Stethoscopes
- EKG machines
- Needles and syringes
- Specimen collection containers
In addition to these tools, medical assistants may also use various software programs to manage patient records and schedule appointments.
In Conclusion
Certified medical assistant jobs are an essential part of the healthcare industry. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring that patients receive proper care and that medical facilities run smoothly. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a certified medical assistant, it is important to have the necessary skills, education, and training to succeed in this rewarding field.