What do medical assistants do?
The medical assistant's job is interesting because it includes a variety of duties. From scheduling appointments to transcribing medical records to taking vital signs, medical assistants provide valuable professional services.
Medical assistants must:
- know current legal concepts and safety regulations for medical practice;
- be organized and able to communicate with patients, insurance and hospital representatives and other health care professionals;
- assist the physician with patient education, examinations, treatments, preparation and administration of medications;
- practice aseptic techniques and infection control;
- perform electrocardiograms;
- obtain blood specimens through capillary and vein punctures;
- be certified in CPR.
Is a professional license required to be a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants are not licensed but professional certification is offered. Graduates of TTC's one-year medical assisting program are eligible to take the national certification examination administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants.
What are the educational requirements to be a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants need a wide range of knowledge, from secretarial and bookkeeping skills to health and medical practices. TTC's Medical Assisting diploma program prepares medical assistants through general education, business and health courses.
What is the job outlook for Medical Assistants?
Nationwide, a demand from more than 200,000 physicians is strong evidence of virtually unlimited opportunities for medical assistants. In the Trident area, the demand for certified medical assistants is increasing, and so are the salaries.
