Clinical Medical Assistant Programs in Allied Health

Clinical or medical assistant’s occupation is going to be one of the fastest growing jobs through 2010. Add to that the fact that job opportunities are best if these assistants possess formal education or experience. Consequently, these 2 facts have triggered a rush for formal education.

A clinical medical assistant performs routine administrative duties and clinical tasks to ensure that health care offices are running smoothly. In small practices, they are generalists taking care of both whereas in larger health care institutions, they specialize in one of the two. Administrative tasks may include, among others, answering phones, welcoming patients, filing medical records, fixing appointments and handling correspondence whereas clinical duties involve taking medical histories, recording vital signs, explaining treatment procedures to patients and assisting physicians during examination, to name a few.

Programs offered for clinical or medical assistants include certifications and diplomas that last for 1 year. Associate degrees can also be acquired and span 2 years. Higher qualifications post Associate degree can also be completed by medical assistants as they progress through their career. Course content involves anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, typing and transcription, record-keeping, accounting and insurance processing. Laboratory techniques, diagnostic procedures, medication administration and first aid are also covered. License and accreditation requirements apply. Practical experience is usually expected by employers.

As per Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistants earned annual incomes of $26,290 in 2006 with the top end at $36,840. As indicated, job opportunities are robust with this occupation being one of the fastest growing in the nation.

Argosy University and Kaplan University focus on programs that create meaningful and successful careers. Everest College and Sanford Brown College offer courseware that is designed prepare students for careers in their chosen fields. Rasmussen College provides education and practical experience to students to position them at the forefront of the industry.