Most people who want to work in the healthcare field likely aspire to be doctors or nurses, however, Medical Assistants are one of the fastest-growing occupations in the United States. A Medical Assistant career path offers many of the same benefits as other healthcare professions, in addition to perks of its own.
The American Association of Medical Assistants describes a Medical Assistant as someone who works alongside doctors, usually in a clinical or office setting (https://www.aama-ntl.org/medical-assisting/what-is-a-medical-assistant). Though the description may seem like that of a nurse, there are some key differences.
Medical Assistants commonly handle tasks such as checking vital signs, showing patients to their rooms and various administrative duties. A licensed practical nurse, on the other hand, provides basic care measures like catheterization and prescription administration. While Medical Assistants often work in clinics and ambulatory care, licensed practical nurses more commonly work in settings like nursing homes and hospitals.
Start Work Sooner
Medical Assistants can begin working in the healthcare field sooner than students who attend nursing programs at four-year universities. At the Allen School of Health Sciences Phoenix Campus our accelerated program allows you to graduate in less than a year.
There is no additional waiting to complete residency because internships can be completed as part of our Medical Assistant program. The Allen School of Health Sciences prepares students with 275 hours of internship in a clinical setting as part of our program. Having an internship as part of your MA program can help bolster job prospects.
Medical Assistants graduate with the knowledge and experience needed to excel in the healthcare industry. They are trained in both clinical and administrative tasks that are critical to running an office or clinic.
With a vast array of skills at their disposal, Medical Assistants can explore different areas of medicine and discover what they are passionate about. They have the opportunity to specialize in a certain type of medicine, teach students who also want to be Medical Assistants or even become the office manager.
Diverse On-The-Job Experiences
Medical Assistants can perform many different tasks needed to keep the clinic or office open in addition to treating patients. Their versatility also ensures they will not be bored on the job because there is always something they can do. Additionally, the patients who come in seeking treatment vary, so every day on the job is different than the one before!
Helping People
Medical Assistants help physicians run their offices, but they also provide patients with compassion and understanding while doing so. Like their fellow healthcare professionals, Medical Assistants take satisfaction in knowing they are helping patients and changing lives for the better.
The Allen School of Health Sciences offers the essential resources Medical Assisting students need to excel in the classroom, in their internships, and in the workforce.
Don’t wait for an opportunity, create it with a new career as a Medical Assistant. If you are graduating high school or looking to change careers, contact the Allen School – Phoenix Campus today! We are enrolling now for our summer classes. Become part of the Allen School family. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.
-Allen School