Medical Assistant
Medical Assistants are versatile healthcare professionals who perform both clinical and administrative duties in outpatient settings like medical offices, clinics, and urgent care centers.
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Getting Started
How to Become a Medical Assistant
At 10 months to get started, this is typical for Postsecondary Certificate-level careers.
Complete Education
Earn your Postsecondary Certificate (typically 10 months) at an estimated cost of $12k–$18k.
Get Licensed or Certified
Complete any state-required licensing or certification exams for medical assistant practice.
Begin Working
Medical Assistant earn a median salary of $42k/yr, with entry-level positions starting somewhat lower.
Education costs from College Scorecard. Training timelines from BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Overview
What Does a Medical Assistant Do?
Medical Assistants are versatile healthcare professionals who perform both clinical and administrative duties in outpatient settings like medical offices, clinics, and urgent care centers. You'll serve as a vital link between patients and physicians, handling everything from taking vital signs and assisting with examinations to scheduling appointments and managing billing. The role has evolved significantly—MAs are now integral members of team-based care models, contributing to pre-visit, post-visit, and between-visit care that improves workflow, patient satisfaction, and reduces provider burnout.
On the Job
Compensation
How Much Does a Medical Assistant Make?
At $42k/yr, medical assistant earn about the same as the average for Postsecondary Certificate-level careers ($46k/yr).
$42k/yr
median annual salary
How It Compares
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Medical Assistant | $42k/yr |
| Medical Billing and Coding Specialist | $49k/yr |
| Medical Transcriptionist | $37k/yr |
| Patient Care Coordinator | $63k/yr |
| Medical Administrative Assistant | $42k/yr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024
Future-Proofing
Medical Assistant Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Employment Growth
The BLS projects 14.8% growth over the next decade — faster than the 5.3% average for Postsecondary Certificate-level careers. That's considered "much faster than average" by BLS standards.
10-Year Growth
14.8%
Much faster than average
Current Employment
774,100
jobs nationwide
AI & Automation Risk
Significant Risk
Medical Assistant roles face significant AI automation risk — below average among Postsecondary Certificate-level careers. Several core tasks could potentially be automated or substantially changed by AI.
Why It's Safe
- +Assisting and caring for others
- +Establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships
- +Resolving conflicts and negotiating with others
- +Performing general physical activities
- +Coaching and developing others
What Could Be Automated
- −Getting information
- −Working with computers
- −Documenting/recording information
- −Processing information
- −Making decisions and solving problems
Based on Pew Research + O*NET methodology and Bureau of Labor Statistics projections
Explore More
Similar Careers to Compare
Medical Billing and Coding Specialist
Medical Transcriptionist
Patient Care Coordinator
Medical Administrative Assistant
Pharmacy Technician
Learn More
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Sources
- •Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook
- •O*NET OnLine
- •College Scorecard, U.S. Department of Education
Data Freshness
BLS OEWS: 2024-05 · BLS Projections: 2024-09 · O*NET: 2024-12