1. What does a Medical Assistant do?
Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) have a great amount of variety in their
jobs and are cross-trained to perform many administrative and clinical duties. Medical assistants work under
the supervision of a licensed physician, and they are an increasingly important
part of the health care team.
2. What are some of the responsibilities?
Medical assistants help with patient care management, execute administrative
and clinical procedures, and often perform managerial and supervisory
functions. Competency in the field requires that medical assistants
communicate effectively, adhere to ethical and legal standards of medical
practice, recognize and respond to emergencies, and demonstrate professional
characteristics.
3. Where do they work?
CMA (Certified Medical Assistants) will have job opportunities available in
physicians'offices, ambulatory care centers, insurance companies, transcription
services, etc.
4. What degree will I earn?
You will earn a certificate upon completion of the Medical Assistant
Technology Program.
5. What certification will be required after I earn my degree?
Upon completion of the program, you are eligible to take the AAMA
Certification Examination developed in conjunction with the National Board of Medical
Examiners. Successful completion of this examination qualifies you to
practice as a CMA (AAMA)(Certified Medical Assistant) throughout the United States.
6. What career opportunities are available to CMA's?
As one of the fastest growing allied health care careers, medical
assisting offers terrific opportunities for advancement. Certified Medical
Assistants can advance to office manager, clinical supervisor or qualify for a
variety of administrative support occupations. Some CMAs choose to teach
medical assisting. Others choose to obtain a bachelor's degree in Human
services, Health Promotion or Health Services Management to name a few.
Certified Medical Assistants are paid competitive wages and can receive
valuable benefits. More importantly, CMAs have the satisfaction of knowing
that they are helping others and making a positive difference in people's lives.
For further information on the CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) professional
organization contact the American
Association of Medical Assistants.
