How To Choose The Best Medical Assistant Schools

Why Are Medical Assistant Schools So Popular?

Medical assistant schools are in huge demand. Thanks to the fast pace of growth of the health industry, medical assistants are being employed in record numbers. The growth of this career is predicted to continue by at least 30% through 2018!

The demand for medical assisting training is so high, that schools and training programs are literally popping up overnight. There are schools that have been around for a number of years, but because the medical assisting field has grown and continues to grow by leaps and bounds, these schools are finding themselves overwhelmed with new applicants.

With So Many Schools Offering Training, How Do You Know Which One To Choose?

Once you’ve made the decision to become a medical assistant, it is very important to choose an accredited program.

Accreditation means the school or program meets and adheres to a specific quality level of education. In this case you should make sure the school you are interested in is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

What Kinds Of Course Work Will You Have To Take To Become A Medical Assistant?

Since your position will require you to interact with patients on a daily basis, as well as maintain the office on the administrative side your course work will include training to prepare you for both functions.

1. Medical Curriculum:

- Physiology

- Anatomy

- Pharmacology

- CPR

- First Aid

- Medical Terminology

- Lab Techniques

2. Non Medical Curriculum:

- Records & Bookkeeping

- Medical Billing & Coding

- Insurance Coding

Programs can vary, but the above list are courses every medical assistant should be required to take.

How Long Will It Take To Complete One Of These Programs?

That will depend on where you choose to get your training. Many programs that focus solely on medical assisting training can be completed in 9 months to a year.

If you choose to get your training from your local community college in the form of an associate degree, then it will take 2 years to finish.

If you think you will be interested in pursuing your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree later in the future, you should get your Associate’s degree first. This will allow you to obtain your next degree in a shorter period of time.

Does Graduating From A Program Or School Mean You Are Automatically Certified?

No it does not. In order to become a certified medical assistant you must apply to take the certification exam. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the American Medical Technologists (AMT) have details on how the process works on each of their websites.

Once you have been accepted to “sit” for the exam, you will be given a specific date and time to take the exam. It will be done in a controlled environment by computer.

Entering The Job Market After Completing Your Training

Several medical assistant schools can also help you obtain employment after graduation. They can assist you with your resume and interviewing skills.

Many may also have established great relationships with various health care agencies. This can go a long way to increasing your chances for employment faster than you might be able to do without their assistance.