Medical Assistant Recognition: American Assn. of Medical Assistants · New Jersey Training and Programs · Certifcations · Job Outlook
Source: WebMD
Medical assistants are health care professionals who assist doctors in clinics and medical offices. Even though medical assistants work directly with doctors, they don’t give medical advice to patients — their duties are limited to collecting information and preparing the doctor and patient for the medical visit.
A medical assistant might do administrative tasks like:
- Answering phones and scheduling appointments
- Greeting patients and their families
- Filing and updating medical records
- Coding and completing insurance forms
- Handling billing, bookkeeping, and general office mail
They may also perform clinical tasks such as:
- Recording symptoms and updating medical histories
- Collecting and preparing laboratory samples or performing basic lab tests
- Assisting doctors during physical exams
- Discussing prescription and dietary changes with patients
- Dispensing medications and Handling prescription refill requests
- Removing stitches or changing wound dressings
- Drawing blood for lab tests
- Conducting basic medical tests such as electrocardiograms
Medical assistant training programs range from 10 months to 2 years and are offered through vocational schools, universities, and junior colleges. Depending on the nature of the task, passing a certification exam may be required. Nationally recognized certifications include the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA).