Do You Have What It Takes to be a Successful Medical Assistant?

When choosing a career, becoming a medical assistant is a smart choice in today’s world. Medical assistants are in high demand and very important to quality patient care. Medical assistants are versatile, valued members of our healthcare system and can be found in just about every medical facility across the country.

What Does a Medical Assistant Do? 

Medical assistants are used in most medical facilities and have a variety of daily responsibilities. A medical assistant acts as a liaison between patients, physicians, nurses, insurance companies, and specialists. A medical assistant has the right training to take on this diverse role. You will be coordinating the process and serving as the point of contact between the patients and the medical staff. A medical assistant may prepare exam rooms, assist the medical staff with exams and procedures, speak with patients about their care, and help the administrative and billing staff with paperwork. A medical assistant is usually the first person to see a patient. Doctors and other medical professionals rely on their medical assistants to be welcoming, efficient, and set the patients at ease. Medical assistants will also check vitals and update the patient’s health history chart so the doctor has the most current information when they are ready to meet with the patient themselves.

Would You Be a Great Medical Assistant?

Becoming a medical assistant means developing the right learned skills, but there are certain characteristics that help make a great medical assistant. Medical assistants need to know how to perform under pressure, manage their time well, and switch responsibilities as needed. Becoming a medical assistant means developing skills in:

• Communication

Both verbal and written communication are key. You will often be the one interpreting the physician’s diagnosis and instructions for the patient, who may be overwhelmed and confused. You need to be able to communicate needs and directions. In addition, you will probably be called upon to assist on updating patient charts, and strong written communication is vital for this task.

• Multitasking

Medical assistants are often found juggling many different responsibilities. You may need to prioritize and adjust as the day progresses. You may find yourself balancing two – or more – tasks at once. A good medical assistant is flexible and great at multitasking.

• Teamwork

You will work with administrative staff, nurses, and doctors, as well as other professionals in the medical field. A medical assistant must be a good team player. 

• Details

A discrepancy in the details is a big deal in the medical field. Becoming a medical assistant means honing your skills in listening and paying attention. A good medical assistant has a sharp eye for details.

• Personality

Your job is to remain calm and collected with a staff that may be harried and patients that may be nervous. Becoming a medical assistant means looking at your personality to see if you can be the calming influence in a medical office.

How Do You Become a Medical Assistant?

There are many benefits to becoming a medical assistant. You will have job security, the opportunity for growth, and the chance to make a difference in the lives of your patients. To become a medical assistant, you can begin a medical assisting program and have a great job in less than a year. You will have classroom time, lab work, and a 6-week externship to practice your skills in a real-world environment. You will learn the fundamentals of medical assisting, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, CPR, first aid, emergency care, and the psychology of patient care as well. Our class schedules are flexible, and there’s no wait list to enroll. Medical assistants are in high demand, especially now, and the right program can get you started on the path to a successful  career in the medical field. Contact Athena Career Academy to learn more about how to become a certified medical assistant.