What Does the Shortage of Allied Healthcare Professionals Mean to You?

While shortages of nurses and physicians are well documented, the shortage of allied health professionals is also a growing concern. The allied health shortage has put the healthcare industry in a tough spot, with an estimated need to train at least one million more people for allied careers by the year 2030. This current shortage isn’t all bad news though, as it may offer some unique benefits to those entering the healthcare workforce, including higher pay along with more cross-training and management opportunities.

While almost all allied health jobs are growing at a steady rate, some are growing faster than others. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates 99,700 medical assisting job openings until 2028, placing medical assistants in the top 10 for healthcare professionals with the most projected job vacancies. If you’ve ever considered becoming a medical assistant, now is the perfect time to begin your training. 

There are numerous benefits of becoming a medical assistant. 

Short Training

Unlike some healthcare careers which require several years of higher education and training, the path to becoming a medical assistant is relatively short in comparison. Medical assistants can begin working in the medical field much faster, as many programs can be completed in one year or less. Medical assisting is an ideal career choice for students needing to jumpstart their new career quickly. 

Predictable Hours 

One of the many benefits of becoming a medical assistant is the ability to find a predictable work schedule, which isn’t always guaranteed in the healthcare field. Most medical assistants work in physician offices or clinics which typically operate during standard business hours. For those with family obligations, medical assisting can be a great fit as it allows you to make plans without fear of being called into work at odd hours.  

Great Pay and Benefits 

Choosing an industry that’s in demand often comes with advantages, like great pay and health benefits. Compared to other professional industries, jobs in the healthcare field have a higher earning potential. Medical assistants have the potential to earn good wages and benefits, including medical and dental insurance, retirement plans, vacation, and sick time. 

Being Part of a Team 

Medical assistants play a vital role on a healthcare team. As an allied health professional, you’ll work alongside physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide patients with quality care. Medical assistants are responsible for performing many important clinical and administrative tasks that help assist and support the physician and other medical staff in healthcare facilities across the country.  

Career Satisfaction 

One of the greatest benefits of becoming a medical assistant is career satisfaction. This isn’t just a job, but rather a fulfilling career you can feel proud to call your own. As an MA, you’ll learn a diverse set of skills, ranging from clinical to administrative. This versatile skill set gives you more exciting opportunities to choose from, whether you wish to work directly with patients or in an office setting with administrative focus. 

Ready to Get Started?  

There are several benefits to becoming a medical assistant, so don’t miss out on this amazing career opportunity. Contact our admissions team at Athena Career Academy with questions about our accredited program, including how to get started. Our caring staff and faculty work hard to ensure our students and graduates are successful in their career paths. Start your new career today!