7 Essential Job Duties of a Medical Assistant

Medical assistants are an essential part of the healthcare team. They provide a wide range of administrative and clinical support to physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were nearly 3 million medical assistants employed in the United States in 2020, and this number is expected to grow by 18% over the next decade.

The job duties of a medical assistant can vary depending on the size and type of practice where they work. However, some of the most common duties include:

1. Patient care: Medical assistants greet and register patients, take vital signs, and prepare patients for examinations. They may also assist with minor procedures, such as injections and venipunctures.
2. Administrative tasks: Medical assistants perform a variety of administrative tasks, such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, and maintaining medical records. They may also order supplies and manage the office budget.
3. Insurance and billing: Medical assistants process insurance claims and handle patient billing. They may also provide assistance with financial counseling and payment plans.
4. Laboratory work: Medical assistants may collect and process laboratory specimens, such as blood and urine samples. They may also operate laboratory equipment and perform basic laboratory tests.
5. Pharmacy: Medical assistants may dispense medications and provide patient education on medication use. They may also assist with pharmacy inventory and ordering.
6. Medical records: Medical assistants maintain and organize patient medical records. They may also scan and upload medical records into electronic health records systems.
7. Other duties: Medical assistants may perform a variety of other duties, such as assisting with research projects, providing patient education, and translating for non-English speaking patients.

Medical assistants must be compassionate, organized, and detail-oriented. They must also have strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Becoming a Medical Assistant

Most medical assistants complete a one- or two-year training program at a community college or vocational school. These programs typically include coursework in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, patient care, and administrative skills.

Medical assistants must also pass a national certification exam. The most common certification exams are offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

Job Outlook for Medical Assistants

The job outlook for medical assistants is excellent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of medical assistants will grow by 18% over the next decade, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services.

Salary Expectations for Medical Assistants

The median annual salary for medical assistants was $36,950 in May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $27,980, and the highest 10% of earners made more than $52,090.

Salary expectations for medical assistants can vary depending on their education, experience, and location. Medical assistants who work in large metropolitan areas or who have specialized skills, such as phlebotomy or pharmacy, may earn higher salaries.

Tips for Success as a Medical Assistant

Here are a few tips for success as a medical assistant:

• Be compassionate and understanding.
• Be organized and detail-oriented.
• Have strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Stay up-to-date on the latest medical trends and advancements.
• Be willing to go the extra mile.

Medical assistants play a vital role in the healthcare system. They are the first point of contact for many patients, and they provide essential support to physicians and other healthcare professionals. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success as a medical assistant and make a positive difference in the lives of others.