Alternative Career Paths Medical Assistants Are Qualified to Do

The healthcare field is constantly growing. Between advancements in technology, a growing population, and an increased demand for more medical care, the healthcare industry’s growth significantly outpaces the average job market. One of the fastest ways to get your foot in the door in the healthcare field is by becoming a medical assistant (MA). Unlike other healthcare careers, you can become a medical assistant in one year or less, which is perfect for those looking to jumpstart their new career quickly. 

Medical assistants are healthcare professionals who support physicians and other healthcare professionals in various medical settings. MAs are unique as they are cross trained to perform clinical and administrative duties, making them a highly valued member of any healthcare team. 

While becoming a medical assistant provides a wealth of benefits including job security, quick training, great pay and benefits, and job satisfaction, many view medical assisting as a springboard to advance their career. Medical assisting training serves as an excellent foundation for other healthcare related careers, although there are plenty of advancement opportunities within the field of medical assisting too. 

Medical Office Assistant 

Medical office assistants handle many of the routine administrative tasks within a healthcare facility or private practice. Common duties include: 

• Filling out insurance forms 
• Coding patient medical information 
• Answering telephones 
• Scheduling appointments 

EKG Technician 

An electrocardiogram (EKG) technician is an essential part of a cardiovascular healthcare team. They are responsible for performing tests that help physicians evaluate a patient’s cardio activity and determine possible health issues. While they are widely used for diagnostic purposes, EKGs might be needed for therapeutic or research purposes. 

Radiologic Technologist (X-Ray Tech) 

Some medical assistants transition to the field of radiologic technology. With a foundation in medical assisting, these professionals can complete additional training from a qualified program, advancing their skills and career potential. Common duties of a radiologic technologist include: 

• Taking diagnostic X-rays, CT scans, and mammograms 
• Working closely with medical teams to evaluate images 
• Maintaining health records 

Medical Claims Examiner 

Medical claims examiners are organized, detail-oriented professionals tasked with reviewing insurance claims. They ensure each claim strictly adheres to current guidelines and help adjusters with complex claims as needed. Medical claims examiners are often employed by insurance companies and may be responsible for approvals and denials as well as further inquiries into certain claims.

Phlebotomy Technician 

Phlebotomy technicians are responsible for drawing blood from patients for donations and lab tests. These blood samples are examined in laboratories to help diagnose health conditions and illnesses. Phlebotomy technicians work in physicians’ offices, hospitals, and medical and diagnostic labs. Some phlebotomists travel to patients’ homes, long-term care facilities, and other healthcare settings where blood is drawn.

Specialized Medical Assistants 

A specialized certified medical assistant (SCMA) is a medical assistant who completed a formal education program and has passed an exam administered by the Specialized Certification Board of the American Medical Technologists (AMT). There are many specialized fields you can choose from after becoming a medical assistant. Each of these fields has their own certifications, stating that an MA is certified to work in that specialty. Some of these specialties include pediatrics, OB-GYN, cardiology, and oncology. 

Finding the Perfect Healthcare Career for You 

Many of the skills acquired after becoming a medical assistant can be applied to other careers. Medical assisting can serve as a stepping stone for other educational opportunities or as a rewarding standalone career. The decision to become a medical assistant may lead to roles you never expected, so what are you waiting for? Contact Athena Career Academy today.