Career Opportunities for Certified Medical Assistants

A medical assistant performs administrative and clinical tasks to support physicians and other healthcare providers. One of the primary advantages of becoming a medical assistant is that there are a lot of career opportunities that you'll be able to pursue.

Job Responsibilities of Certified Medical Assistants

Certified medical assistants (CMAs) have passed a certification exam after completing an accredited medical assisting program. As CMAs are highly trained professionals, they have a wide range of job responsibilities. Some of the tasks that CMAs are qualified to perform include:

• Taking patient vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.
• Assisting physicians with patient exams and procedures.
• Preparing and administering medications as directed by the physician.
• Collecting and preparing lab specimens for testing.
• Updating patient medical records and documenting patient information.
• Scheduling appointments and managing medical office communications.
• Providing patient education on medications, procedures, and general health topics.

Career Opportunities for CMAs

With their extensive training and versatile skill set, certified medical assistants have a lot of career opportunities available to them. Some of the job titles that CMAs can hold include:

• Medical Assistant: As the title suggests, this is a broad and general job title for any medical assistant. CMAs can work in various healthcare settings as medical assistants, performing a wide range of tasks to support physicians and other healthcare providers.
• Medical Administrative Assistant: With their training in administrative tasks, CMAs can also work in a medical office as an administrative assistant. This role involves managing patient appointments, handling communications, and maintaining medical records.
• Clinical Team Lead: In larger healthcare facilities, certified medical assistants may be promoted to a clinical team lead position. In this role, they oversee the work of other medical assistants and ensure that all tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.

• Clinical Supervisor: Some CMAs may choose to advance their career by taking on supervisory roles, such as clinical supervisors. In this role, CMAs are responsible for overseeing the clinical operations of a medical office or facility.
• Medical Office Manager: With their knowledge of medical terminology, procedures, and office management skills, CMAs can also take on managerial roles in medical offices or facilities.
• Patient Care Coordinator: CMAs can work as patient care coordinators to assist patients with scheduling appointments, understanding insurance benefits, and coordinating their care with other healthcare providers. Patient care coordinators can find work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

• Medical Billing and Coding Specialist: With additional training in medical billing and coding, CMAs can work in this specialized field to ensure accurate and timely billing for medical procedures and services. Medical billing and coding specialists can work in medical offices, insurance companies, and third-party billing agencies.

• Occupational Health Specialist: CMAs can also specialize in occupational health, working with employers to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. In this role, CMAs may perform pre-employment physicals, workplace ergonomic assessments, and general health education for employees.

• Phlebotomist: CMAs with training in phlebotomy can work as phlebotomists, and are responsible for collecting and preparing blood samples for testing. Phlebotomists work in various healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, and blood donation centers.

• EKG Technician: An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. CMAs with training in EKG can work as EKG technicians to administer and interpret these tests. EKG technicians work at hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic imaging centers.
• Medical Claims Examiner: CMAs with extensive knowledge of medical terminology and procedures can also work as medical claims examiners for insurance companies. In this role, they review insurance claims to determine their accuracy and make sure that services rendered are medically necessary.
• Dispensing Optician: With additional training in eyecare, CMAs can work as dispensing opticians to help patients choose and fit prescription glasses or contact lenses. Dispensing opticians work at eye care clinics, optical stores, and other healthcare facilities.
• Medical Transcriptionist: CMAs with strong typing skills and knowledge of medical terminology can work as medical transcriptionists, converting recorded dictations from healthcare providers into written reports. Medical transcriptionists can work in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and medical transcription agencies.

Advantages of Being a Certified Medical Assistant

Becoming a certified medical assistant opens up many doors for career opportunities, but there are also other advantages to consider. Some of the benefits of being a CMA include:

• Job Security: With the demand for healthcare services increasing, the need for certified medical assistants is also on the rise. This can provide job security and stability in the long run.
• Competitive Salary: Certified medical assistants can earn higher salaries compared to non-certified medical assistants due to their advanced training and skills.
• Career Advancement: As mentioned earlier, CMAs have various career opportunities available to them, allowing for potential advancement within the healthcare field.
• Versatility: Certified medical assistants are trained in both clinical and administrative tasks, making them valuable team members in any healthcare setting. This versatility allows for a diverse range of job opportunities.
• Personal Satisfaction: CMAs have the opportunity to work closely with patients and make a positive impact on their health and well-being. This can bring personal satisfaction and fulfillment in one's career.

Become a Medical Assistant Today

Becoming a certified medical assistant can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for those interested in the healthcare field. With the ability to work in various settings, competitive salaries, and opportunities for advancement, CMAs have a wide range of job options available to them. If you’re looking for a great career, consider becoming a certified medical assistant. For information about enrolling in our medical assistant program, contact Athena Career Academy today.