Medical Assistant
Perform clinical and administrative duties in medical offices, assisting physicians and ensuring smooth patient care operations.
| Median Salary | $44,200 per year |
| Job Growth (10yr) | +15%Excellent |
| Education | Postsecondary Certificate |
| Time to Start | 9-12 months |
Work Settings
- •Physicians' Offices
- •Outpatient Care Centers
- •Hospitals
- •Urgent Care Clinics
- •Specialty Clinics
- •Ambulatory Surgery Centers
Primary Duties
- •Interview patients and record comprehensive medical histories
- •Measure and document vital signs including blood pressure, temperature, weight, and pulse
- •Prepare patients for examinations and assist physicians during procedures
- •Administer injections and medications under physician supervision as permitted by state law
- •Perform phlebotomy (blood draws) and collect laboratory specimens for testing
- •Conduct basic laboratory tests and CLIA-waived point-of-care diagnostic tests
- •Perform electrocardiograms (EKGs) and other diagnostic procedures
- •Schedule patient appointments, manage calendars, and coordinate follow-up visits
- •Handle billing, insurance documentation, medical coding, and communicate with insurance companies
- •Enter patient data, vital signs, and test results into Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
- •Sterilize medical instruments and dispose of contaminated supplies according to safety protocols
- •Maintain inventory of medical and office supplies to ensure clinic operations
How to Become Medical Assistant
Complete high school diploma or GED
Minimum requirement for admission to any medical assisting program
Duration: 24 months
Research and select accredited MA program
Verify CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation, compare certificate vs. associate degree paths, and secure financing through FAFSA, scholarships, or WIOA
Duration: 3 months
Complete medical assisting program coursework
Duration depends on pathway: 4-6 months (accelerated), 9-12 months (standard certificate), or 18-24 months (associate degree)
Duration: 24 months
Complete mandatory clinical externship
Integrated into program; hands-on experience in real healthcare setting under supervision
Duration: 24 months
Obtain required health clearances and certifications
Complete immunizations, TB test, physical exam, background check, drug screening, and BLS/CPR certification
Duration: 2 months
Pass national certification exam
Take CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), CCMA (NHA), or NCMA (NCCT) exam; can often test 30 days before graduation
Duration: 1 months
Begin job search and secure employment
Leverage externship connections, school career services, and professional network; start applying during final months of program
Duration: 3 months
Continuing Education
The CMA (AAMA) certification requires renewal every three years by completing 30 continuing education units (CEUs) and paying annual and recertification fees. The RMA (AMT) requires annual renewal with a $60 fee and offers a Continuing Certification Program (CCP) for lapsed credentials. Continuing education keeps you current with evolving healthcare practices, new technologies like EHR systems, and changing regulations. Many MAs pursue specialized CEUs in areas like pediatrics, geriatrics, or specific procedures to enhance their expertise and value to employers.
Certifications & Licenses
- •CMA (AAMA) - Certified Medical Assistant from American Association of Medical Assistants (required for most positions)
- •RMA (AMT) - Registered Medical Assistant from American Medical Technologists
- •CCMA (NHA) - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant from National Healthcareer Association
- •NCMA (NCCT) - National Certified Medical Assistant from National Center for Competency Testing
- •BLS/CPR Certification from American Heart Association or Red Cross (mandatory)
- •Phlebotomy Technician Certification (optional specialty)
- •EKG Technician Certification (optional specialty)
- •Certified Professional Coder (CPC) for medical coding specialization (optional)
Citations
- Bureau of Labor Statistics - Medical Assistants ↗
- American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) ↗
- Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) ↗
- Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) ↗
- American Medical Technologists (AMT) ↗
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA) ↗
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