20 Reasons to Become a Medical Assistant
1. Highly Sought-After Career
Choosing to become a medical assistant is a wise career move as it is a highly sought-after profession with numerous opportunities. The demand for medical assistants is projected to increase by 18.9 percent between 2020 and 2030, making it a faster-growing occupation compared to others. This not only provides job security but also offers more career options and higher pay, making it an excellent advantage.
2. Minimal educational requirements
The educational requirements for pursuing a career as a medical assistant are minimal, offering two routes of an associate’s degree or diploma. It is recommended to enroll in a program accredited by a nationally recognized certifying body like Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) for a quality education. The process is not prolonged, providing a quick path to start a career in the field.
3. Short training period
One of the most appealing aspects of a career as a medical assistant is its short training period. The training requirements are relatively brief, enabling individuals to start working and earning money in their chosen profession without losing too much time. Medical assistant programs typically range from 6 to 24 months, with the most popular option being the 2-year program. These programs can be found in junior colleges, vocational-technical schools, as well as traditional campus-based and online universities and colleges.
4. You can learn online
For some individuals, learning online is a better fit, as it provides more flexibility and an opportunity to learn at their own pace. When pursuing a career as a medical assistant, online learning is an option available for those who prefer this mode of education. The advantages of learning online are numerous, including the ability to balance personal and professional life while still receiving a quality education that can aid in career advancement. By studying online, students can complete their coursework at their own pace and avoid having to choose between their personal life and school obligations.
5. You can work in different environments.
A career as a medical assistant offers the benefit of working in various settings, as medical assistants are in demand in a wide range of work environments. Opportunities are available in hospital-based clinics, physician offices, public health agencies, outpatient care centers, nursing homes, and rehabilitation facilities, providing a range of choices for individuals to find a work environment that suits their preferences.
6. Your work hours will be flexible.
Medical assistants have the advantage of a flexible work schedule, with numerous time slots available to work in this profession. The schedule is not limited to weekdays or weekends, as individuals can choose to work an early morning shift, a night shift after dinner, or a weekend shift. The flexibility of the schedule allows for a better work-life balance and can accommodate personal obligations.
7. You will enjoy a variety of tasks on the job.
The day-to-day responsibilities of a medical assistant are highly varied, with every patient requiring different tasks and responsibilities. The diversity of tasks makes the job enjoyable and dynamic. Some days may involve administrative duties, while others may involve direct patient care. On some occasions, it may be a combination of both. As a medical assistant, individuals may need to wear many hats throughout the day, ensuring that the workday is always stimulating and never boring.
8. You can transition to another healthcare profession.
By working as a medical assistant, you can develop a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that can help you excel in other healthcare professions if you choose to transition. With your experience in direct patient care, health education, administrative duties, and record keeping, you can pursue careers such as nursing or surgical technician. Your training as a medical assistant can provide an excellent starting point for advanced healthcare careers.
9. You can enjoy a steady income.
Working as a medical assistant can provide you with a stable income, giving you peace of mind and financial security. You can rely on a consistent paycheck each month, knowing exactly how much you will earn. This stability can relieve the stress and uncertainty of financial struggles and allow you to focus on other aspects of your life.
10. You can increase your income through overtime.
Medical assistants have the opportunity to earn additional income through overtime. This is not always an option in other professions. Working more than 40 hours a week can result in a higher salary and an increase in income.
11. You may receive healthcare benefits
One of the benefits of becoming a medical assistant is the opportunity to receive healthcare benefits for yourself and your family. As an essential part of the healthcare team, medical assistants may receive free flu shots and discounted gym memberships, among other benefits.
12. You can enjoy paid time off
Medical assistants can benefit from paid time off, which is a great advantage of the profession. If you or an immediate family member becomes sick or needs care, you can take advantage of the paid time off benefits. Additionally, if you need to take a personal day for any reason, the paid time off benefit can be a huge help.
13. You can choose to work in any state
As a medical assistant, you will have the flexibility to work in any state. Your license is transferrable nationwide, and there are ample job opportunities available for medical assistants across the country. The projected number of jobs for medical assistants by 2030 is estimated to be 104,400, taking into account both new and replacement jobs.
14. You might be able to travel
A career as a medical assistant can be an excellent opportunity to travel and experience different cultures. As a travel medical assistant, you can get paid for traveling to different locations and working in medical offices. With medical offices situated in various places, you may have the chance to spend the summer in California or the winter in Hawaii.
15. You can choose to work full time or part time
Due to high demand and limited availability of medical assistants, the option to work either full-time or part-time provides flexibility to cater to your lifestyle needs without feeling like you’re sacrificing.
16. You will be doing good and helping people
Becoming a medical assistant is a fulfilling career choice because it allows you to make a positive impact on people’s lives. You will have the opportunity to help patients feel better, both physically and emotionally, by providing them with compassionate care and support. Whether you are taking vital signs, scheduling appointments, or assisting with medical procedures, you will play an essential role in improving the health and well-being of your patients. Knowing that you are making a difference in someone’s life is a rewarding experience that can bring a sense of purpose to your work.
17. You may be able to work from home
Working from home can be a great benefit of becoming a medical assistant. For those who prefer to work independently and from the comfort of their own home, a medical assistant job may be the right choice. With the necessary training, you could work as a solo practitioner and eventually transition to a home office, which would provide more flexibility in terms of time and money.
18. You can increase your salary by becoming certified
Becoming certified as a medical assistant is an opportunity that can enhance your career and potentially increase your earning potential. Certification demonstrates expertise in your field and can open doors to new opportunities. The American Association of Medical Assistants offers several certification options for medical assistants, including Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Certified Office Competent Medical Assistant (COCMA), and Certified Clinical Medical Administrative Assistant (CCMA).
19. You might benefit from employer reimbursement
One of the major advantages of pursuing a career as a medical assistant is the availability of educational opportunities. If you become a medical assistant, there is a possibility that your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. This means that if you want to further your education and career, your employer will cover the cost of your education. With tuition reimbursement, your career goals can become more achievable and realistic.
20. You have the flexibility to take on another job
One advantage of working as a medical assistant is the possibility of having a flexible schedule that can allow you to take on additional work. With this flexibility, you may be able to work a full-time job as a medical assistant and also take on a part-time job, if you desire. This can provide an opportunity to increase your income and potentially reach your financial goals more quickly.