The demand for skilled medical assistants has never been higher, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 19% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, medical assistants play a vital role in supporting patient care and administrative tasks. If you're considering a career as a medical assistant, it's essential to choose a training program that provides comprehensive education and prepares you for success in this field.
Medical assisting is a dynamic profession that requires a unique blend of clinical and administrative skills. Medical assistants work alongside healthcare professionals, taking vital signs, preparing patients for exams, and performing routine tests. They also handle administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and billing insurance companies. With the right training, you can unlock a rewarding career with opportunities for growth and advancement.
What to Look for in a Medical Assistant Training Program
When selecting a medical assistant training program, there are several factors to consider. Look for programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These organizations ensure that programs meet rigorous standards for education and training. Additionally, consider programs that offer a balance of classroom instruction and hands-on training, as well as opportunities for externships or practicum experiences.
A well-structured program should cover a range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, and patient care. You should also have the opportunity to develop your administrative skills, learning about medical office procedures, billing and coding, and electronic health records. Some programs may also offer specialized training in areas like phlebotomy or EKG/ECG.
Top Medical Assistant Training Program Options
Here are some of the top medical assistant training program options to consider:
| Program | Accreditation | Program Length | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kaplan Healthcare | CAAHEP | 12 months | $15,000 |
| Medical Assistant Academy | ABHES | 9 months | $10,000 |
| Concorde Career Colleges | CAAHEP | 12 months | $18,000 |
| National Healthcareer Association | ABHES | 10 months | $12,000 |
Kaplan Healthcare: A Comprehensive Program
Kaplan Healthcare offers a comprehensive medical assistant training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The program is CAAHEP-accredited and takes 12 months to complete. Students learn a range of clinical and administrative skills, including patient care, medical terminology, and billing and coding. Kaplan Healthcare also offers job placement assistance and a satisfaction guarantee.
Medical Assistant Academy: A Specialized Program
Medical Assistant Academy offers a specialized medical assistant training program that focuses on both clinical and administrative skills. The program is ABHES-accredited and takes 9 months to complete. Students learn about patient care, medical terminology, and medical office procedures, as well as phlebotomy and EKG/ECG. Medical Assistant Academy also offers externship opportunities to gain hands-on experience.
Key Points
- Look for CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation when selecting a medical assistant training program
- Consider programs that offer a balance of classroom instruction and hands-on training
- Kaplan Healthcare and Medical Assistant Academy are top program options to consider
- Medical assistants require a unique blend of clinical and administrative skills
- Job placement assistance and satisfaction guarantees can be beneficial in securing employment
Conclusion
Choosing the right medical assistant training program can be a daunting task, but by considering factors like accreditation, program length, and tuition, you can make an informed decision. Kaplan Healthcare and Medical Assistant Academy are just a few of the top program options to consider. With the right training, you can unlock a rewarding career as a medical assistant and enjoy opportunities for growth and advancement in the healthcare industry.
What is the job outlook for medical assistants?
+The job outlook for medical assistants is highly favorable, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 19% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030.
How long does it take to complete a medical assistant training program?
+The length of a medical assistant training program varies, but most programs take 9-12 months to complete.
What skills do medical assistants need?
+Medical assistants require a unique blend of clinical and administrative skills, including patient care, medical terminology, and billing and coding.