Medical assistants are trained to provide assistance to heath care professionals, including medical doctors. Their work is both administrative and clinical, and can include routine medical tasks such as monitoring a patient’s vital signs, preparation and handling of some medical equipment, maintenance of patient records, collection of body tissues and/or fluids for testing and the administration of certain medications and vaccinations. Traditionally, medical assistants simply required on-the-job training and worked mostly in emergency care centres and small clinics, but are increasingly employed in both public and private hospitals as well. While is not a formal requirement, most employers will look for a medical assistant with a recognised qualification.
In the United States, formal training is provided by a number of technical colleges, online programs, vocational schools and junior colleges. These courses must be accredited by either the Accrediting Bureau of Heath Education Schools (ABHES) or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) in order for a student to be able to register as a medical assistant upon graduation. Employers in the United States will often look favourably upon applicants who have completed the Certified Medical Assistant Exam that is provided by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). This exam is only available to students who have completed their course through an accredited institution. By becoming a certified, a medical assistant will generally be able to work for a higher rate of pay and more convenient and consistent working hours. In order to remain certified, the AAMA requires either participation in ongoing educational programs or a re-sit of the exam. The re-certification process is to be undertaken only once every five years and is necessary to ensure that all medical assistants remain up-to-date with new technology and procedures.
Prospective medical assistants can choose between either an associate degree or certification (described above). Certified medical assistants are able to complete tasks such as setting up laboratory services and hospital admissions, scheduling appointments and updating patient records. Those with an associate degree will be able to undertake more clinical duties under the supervision of a medical doctor. These duties can include taking blood and other samples for testing, administration of medications, authorisation of prescription refills and the removal of stitches. Further training in X-ray imaging and immunisation can also be completed in some states.
When comparing medical assistant schools, it is important to take into consideration costs, the type of degree, whether or not the program is accredited, and whether or not the classes are available via distance education or on campus. It is also important that the course covers topics that will be on the CMA examination. This includes pharmacology, first aid, laboratory procedures, clinical procedures and patient relations. Choosing a course that incorporates an internship is a good way to get hands-on experience. Some courses will also have tutoring available to provide student with additional assistance when required. Admission to courses generally requires a high school diploma, although specific entry requirements may vary between schools.