Basic Responsibilities and Duties Of A Medical Assistant
There is a variety of different options for training in the medical profession and not all positions require extensive studying or in depth medical knowledge or training. One such position that offers not only great prospects as far as future employment and salary but also the possibility of continued training at a later date is the position of Medical Assistant. A Medical Assistant is in touch with patients from the moment they enter the clinic or hospital until they leave. It is both a rewarding and a challenging position, perhaps one of the more versatile positions in the medical care arena as assistants are needed to manage many day to day organizational tasks as well as interact and care for patients at some level. Empathy and understanding are needed attributes of anyone wishing to fill this position as patient care and encouragement is essential.
Some may work primarily in the area of administration while others are more involved on a clinical level. While the training for both is the same, it is possible, in some cases, to diversify once they seek job placement. In some situations an assistant will fulfill both positions, helping with the clerical and administrative side of things as well as assisting in a clinical setting. Some of the tasks they may be expected to help with include taking a patient’s vital signs and recording them, performing pre-examination interviews with patients, scheduling appointments, filing records, preparing the examination room and restocking equipment and supplies, and most important of all, interacting on a personal level with patients. In some instances they may perform other medical procedures such as giving injections, cleaning wounds and changing bandages.
There are two types of certification available. A basic diploma is issued after nine to twelve months of study at either a community college or a career college. It is also possible to study for a two year Associate Degree at either a career or community college. This second course is more comprehensive and provides a better basis for further studies at a later date; in fact, credits earned can be counted towards a Bachelor’s Degree. It is also possible to study for certification via online studies.