Do you want to work in the medical field, but don’t know what to do? Are you wondering what is required to become a medical assistant? In this blog post, we will discuss the steps that are necessary to become a medical assistant. We will also provide information on the education and training that is required for this career field. So, if you are interested in pursuing a career as a medical assistant, keep reading!
Becoming a medical assistant – What to do to become one
A medical assistant is a person who supports the work of physicians and other health professionals, usually in an outpatient setting. They perform administrative and clinical tasks that include taking medical histories, scheduling appointments, answering phones, billing patients, and assisting with examinations. Whether you plan on getting a medical assistant certification Texas or you want to know how to become a medical assistant in any other state, you can make this dream a reality. Of course, it will require some dedication and effort on your part, but it is definitely doable. Let’s take a look at what you need to do in order to become a medical assistant.
Learn about the duties and responsibilities of this profession
As we mentioned before, medical assistants perform a variety of tasks in an outpatient setting. This means that they work in clinics, physician’s offices, and other similar facilities. Their duties can be divided into two categories: administrative and clinical. Administrative tasks include answering phones, scheduling appointments, billing patients, and handling insurance paperwork. Clinical tasks, on the other hand, involve taking medical histories, preparing patients for examination, assisting with procedures, and collecting lab specimens. It is important to note that medical assistants do not usually perform diagnostic or therapeutic tasks. These are reserved for licensed physicians and other health care professionals.
Enroll in an accredited medical assisting program
Now that you know what medical assistants do, you are probably wondering how to become one. The first step is to enroll in an accredited medical assistant program. These programs usually last between six and twelve months and they offer both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Upon completion of a medical assistant program, you will be eligible to take the certification exam.
Complete an externship or internship to gain hands-on experience in the field
In addition to completing a medical assistant program, you may also want to consider completing an externship or internship. This will give you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field and to put your skills to the test. Externships and internships are usually completed during the last semester of a medical assistant program.
Pass the certification exam to become a certified medical assistant (CMA)
Once you have completed a medical assistant program and an externship or internship, you will be eligible to take the certification exam. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) administers the CMA exam. The test measures your understanding of medical assisting ideas and processes. Upon passing the exam, you will be a certified medical assistant (CMA).
Now that you have completed all of the steps to becoming a medical assistant, it is time to start your career! To find a job, you can search online job boards, or you can contact medical offices and clinics in your area. Once you have found a position, you will be on your way to a rewarding and fulfilling career in the medical field!
