Going Back to School for a Career in Healthcare Has Many Advantages

So, you’ve decided to go back to school. Congratulations! Perhaps you’re bored with your current job, or there’s no room for advancement, or the pay isn’t the greatest. Whatever your reasons may be, you are making a lifelong investment in yourself and your family. If you’re looking for an exciting, fast-paced career with numerous benefits, you should strongly consider becoming a medical assistant (MA). 

The healthcare field is in an excellent industry for growth and advancement. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that healthcare occupations are projected to add more jobs than any other occupational field from 2019 to 2029. With job security being a concern in these uncertain times, you can rest easy knowing that the healthcare industry provides stability.

There are many compelling reasons to go back to school for a career in healthcare, including: 

Short Training Program 

Unlike other healthcare careers, becoming a medical assistant doesn’t take several years of education and training to complete. While the program length varies depending on the school, many MA programs can be completed in one year or less. Medical assisting is the ideal fit for eager, motivated students looking to jumpstart their new medical career quickly. 

Great Pay and Benefits

For a career that doesn’t require several years of schooling to complete, the salary and benefits of a medical assistant are better than average. In addition to a decent salary, many medical assistants also receive additional benefits including health insurance and dental coverage. Another benefit to becoming a medical assistant that sometimes gets overlooked is having less student debt than those who attend a traditional college or university. 

Family Friendly Schedule 

It’s a common belief that jobs in healthcare require irregular, long hours. While that may be true for some healthcare professions, medical assistants typically work in clinics or physician offices which operate during normal business hours. Medical assisting is a great fit for those seeking a stable, predictable work schedule. 

Job Variety 

Medical assistants work in a busy, fast-paced environment and rarely have time to experience boredom. Since no two patients are the same, each day brings about new experiences and excitement. For those who can’t imagine being confined to a desk or cubicle all day, becoming a medical assistant is a great alternative for those with an adventurous spirit. 

Opportunities for Advancement 

There are ample opportunities for career advancement after becoming a medical assistant. Some MAs may decide to specialize in a particular area of healthcare or use their skills and knowledge to transition into office management or other healthcare related careers. There are several MA career path options available to those looking for a change of pace or work setting. 

Helping People 

If you’re a people person and you’re passionate about helping others, becoming a medical assistant is a great career choice. Medical assistants help physicians run their offices, but they also provide patients with quality care and compassion. Like other healthcare professionals, MAs take pride and satisfaction in knowing they’re helping people and changing their lives for the better. 

Ready to Get Started? 

If you’re looking for a career with a small time commitment and big rewards, consider becoming a medical assistant. Athena Career Academy is designed to prepare students for successful careers in medical assisting by teaching the necessary skills to obtain employment in a modern medical facility. Contact us today to learn more about our flexible class schedules and steps to enroll.