Can I Learn How to Be a Medical Assistant Without Training?

Becoming a Medical Assistant (MA) is one of the hottest careers in healthcare, offering great pay and job security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 18 percent from 2020 to 2030. Roughly 104,400 openings for medical assistants are projected annually, on average, throughout the decade, so what are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to focus your energy on becoming a medical assistant.

Do I Need Training to Become a Medical Assistant? 

While it may be possible to become an MA with no more than a GED or high school diploma in some states, most employers select candidates with formal training and certification through an accredited program. With the current demand for healthcare workers, employers will be looking for people who can jump in and help on day one. They don’t have the time or resources needed to train medical assistants on the job anymore. Hiring certified MAs is appealing because they know you will be able to perform your job safely and you will be well prepared for the workload. Therefore, it’s advisable to receive your medical assistant training through a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). 

What are the Benefits of Training to Become an MA? 

The demand for certified medical assistants is high, so right now is the ideal opportunity to secure your future with a lucrative career in healthcare. Becoming an MA requires a small commitment of time and money and in return provides you with numerous benefits, including: 

Short Program Length 

Unlike becoming a doctor or nurse, you can train to become a medical assistant in a few months, not years. Most programs can be completed in under a year. Medical assisting is an ideal choice for students wanting to jump start their new career quickly without putting their life on hold. 

Affordable Training 

Unlike expensive university programs, medical assistant students aren’t required to take out hefty student loans. Not only will you be earning good pay after becoming a medical assistant, but you’ll be starting your career off with a lot less student debt than a graduate of a four-year college 

Predictable Work Schedule 

Another benefit of becoming a medical assistant is having a more predictable work schedule than others in healthcare. MAs usually work in medical clinics that operate during standard business hours. This can be especially helpful for those with families who are trying to achieve a better work-life balance. There are also options for MAs preferring to work odd shifts, like hospitals or long-term care facilities. 

Providing Patient Care   

Medical assistants support physicians in their practice as well as other healthcare professionals. Most importantly, they get to help patients. Medical assistants answer questions, take patient histories, and often act as a liaison between the patient and physician. Patients rely on MAs to help them understand tests and procedures they’re facing, as well ease their fears. 

Ability to Become Certified 

While certification isn’t required in all states to obtain employment, most employers hire certified medical assistants. Certification leads to higher pay, better shift choices, greater opportunities for advancement, higher marketability and more. Certification also demonstrates your dedication and commitment to the profession and reassures a potential employer that you possess the right skills and knowledge to perform the job right away. 

Opportunities for Advancement 

Medical assisting offers many opportunities for advancement. With experience, medical assistants can specialize in a specific area of medicine which often means higher pay and more responsibilities. Other MAs utilize their vast clinical and administrative skills to transition into similar healthcare related careers, like phlebotomy or medical office management. 

Want to Learn More? 

Athena Career Academy offers an accredited CMA program designed to set you up for success. Our caring faculty and staff will fully prepare you to function as a contributing team member in a modern medical facility. Contact us today to learn more about how to enroll or to set up a campus tour!