6 Benefits of a Career in Medical Assisting

Medical assistants are modern day heroes. Their dedication, passion, and commitment continue to help many people, especially given the issues we are facing in healthcare today. It is undeniable that healthcare workers are an essential part of the medical field, but it is especially true for medical assistants as they are at the forefront of any medical facility. 

Medical assisting introduces you to the industry and allows you to observe a wide variety of medical professionals. The role of a medical assistant is vital as they provide support to healthcare professionals and handle essential administrative and clinical duties.

If you are interested in becoming a medical assistant, here are just a few of the many benefits associated with the job: 

1. Excellent Job Outlook 

The job outlook for medical assistants is outstanding. According to the statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, you will have an excellent chance of finding employment with an estimated growth rate of 19 percent from 2019 to 2029. This is much faster compared to the average growth for all other occupations in the workforce. According to the BLS, the growing baby boom population continues to increase the demand for preventative medical services, thus requiring the need for more physicians and medical assistants. 

2. Relatively Short Training Path 

You know you need a college education to get a better job, but many don’t have the time or finances to commit to several years of schooling. While some healthcare careers take years to complete, the path to becoming a medical assistant is relatively short in comparison. Many programs are designed to be completed in one year or less, so you can jumpstart your new career quickly. 

3. Ability to Earn Certification 

The ability to earn certification in a medical assisting career gives you leverage. For those who acquire one, it can demonstrate to potential employers that you possess the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this profession. It can also lead to better shifts, higher pay, and greater potential for advancement opportunities. To get certified, you must attend an accredited medical assisting program and pass an exam after successfully completing the program. 

4. Predictable Work Schedule 

Working in a clinic means you can only work when the clinic is open. If you work in urgent care that might include evenings or weekends, but for the most part, many medical assistants work in physician’s offices and have predictable shifts. This means you are much less likely to have to find a last-minute babysitter or worry about being on-call.  

5. Diverse Work Settings 

As a medical assistant, you can work in a variety of settings. While some medical assistants work in hospitals, others work in clinics, physician’s offices, outpatient care centers, specialty clinics, ambulatory care, and more. If you enjoy variety, becoming a medical assistant allows you to find the ideal environment to grow into your chosen profession. 

6. Advancement Opportunities 

The field of medical assisting provides a great opportunity to begin your career in the healthcare industry. While you can find fulfillment as a medical assistant, this career allows you to expand your dreams to pursue another profession in the same industry, like office administration, medical billing and coding specialist, phlebotomist, laboratory assistant, and more. You can also specialize in a specific area of medicine that interests you most, like pediatrics, neurology, cardiology, dermatology, etc. 

Interested in Learning More? 

As a medical assistant, you will discover great fulfillment in helping people. Taking on this rewarding profession requires a lot of dedication and skill. Contact Athena Career Academy to learn more about this career, find out how to enroll, and schedule a campus tour!