A new year can be the perfect time for a new start. For many people, it’s an opportunity to think about a new job. If you’ve been thinking about a new career as a certified medical assistant, this may be the nudge you need to begin making that idea a reality.
Would This Field Be a Good Fit for You?
When you’re considering a new career, it’s important to determine if the role would be a good fit. For certified medical assistants, the following qualities and attributes are important to succeed: empathy, integrity, dependability, ability to manage stress, strong communication skills, compassion, and a long fuse.
Why are those particular skills so critical for this role? Medical assistants may have administrative or clinical duties, or both, depending on the work setting. Duties may include greeting patients, updating medical records, preparing patients for exams, drawing blood, and assisting with medication. For all of these duties, as well as any others that may be assigned, the qualities and attributes listed above would help the individual provide patients with the best possible care.
Education and Certification
If the field sounds like a good fit for you, it’s time to begin finding a program that will give you the educational foundation you need to pursue it. You may have a choice: classroom, online, or a hybrid program. Do your homework and find the program that best meets your needs in terms of scheduling, flexibility, learning style, cost, and any other issues that may be part of the decision.
After you complete your educational program, you can take the certified medical assistant (CMA) exam through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). The credential indicates a level of professionalism and preparedness for the field—it represents a medical assistant who has been credentialed through the Certifying Board (CB) of the AAMA.
Looking Ahead
There’s good news as far as job security in this field. Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 29 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. This is largely due to the aging of the baby boom population, which has increased the need for preventive medical services. It’s good news for people who are considering this field.
There are opportunities for personal growth, as well. After you work in an entry-level medical assistant position, moving into a medical specialty may offer better opportunities. The longer you work in a specialty practice that you enjoy, the more valuable your skills and knowledge will become to your employer.
We’re Here 365, and We’ll Be Here for You
At 365 Healthcare Staffing Services, we specialize in the recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals in per diem, travel, and permanent assignments in healthcare facilities across the country. We’ll be here when you’re established in the role and ready to find the next perfect assignment. We’re at 310.436.3650, and we’re looking forward to talking with you.
