Medical assistants play a crucial role in healthcare settings, yet their duties and responsibilities are often misunderstood. Despite being an integral part of the healthcare team, there are several misconceptions surrounding the profession. In this article, we will shed some light on the true value that medical assistants bring to the healthcare industry.
One common misconception is that medical assistants are simply nurse's aides or administrative staff. While medical assistants do perform some administrative tasks, such as scheduling appointments and managing patient records, they are also trained in clinical procedures. Medical assistants undergo comprehensive training that includes both administrative and clinical aspects of healthcare, enabling them to perform a wide range of duties under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers.
Another misconception is that medical assistants do not require formal education or training. In reality, most employers prefer to hire medical assistants who have completed a formal training program and are certified or registered. These programs, which are typically offered at vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes, cover topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. Additionally, medical assistants may choose to pursue certification through organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the American Medical Technologists (AMT), further demonstrating their commitment to their profession and ensuring their competency in both administrative and clinical tasks.
Some believe that medical assisting is a job with limited opportunities for career advancement. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Medical assistants have the opportunity to specialize in various areas of healthcare, such as dermatology, cardiology, or pediatrics, by gaining experience and additional training in their chosen field. Furthermore, many medical assistants use their experience and education as a stepping stone to pursue further education and advance their careers, such as becoming registered nurses, physician assistants, or healthcare administrators.
While medical assistants do handle routine tasks such as taking vital signs, preparing patients for examinations, and assisting with minor procedures, they are also capable of performing more advanced clinical procedures under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers. These may include administering injections, conducting electrocardiograms (EKGs), performing venipuncture, and even assisting with surgical procedures in certain settings. Medical assistants play a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of healthcare facilities by providing both administrative support and clinical assistance, allowing licensed healthcare providers to focus on delivering quality patient care.
Medical assistants are highly skilled and valuable members of the healthcare team who perform a wide range of tasks to support both patients and providers. By debunking common misconceptions and highlighting the true nature of the profession, we can foster a better understanding and appreciation for the important role that medical assistants play in delivering high-quality healthcare services.
I loved going to Ross. They are very interested in your career and always willing to help. I gained knowledge, hands-on experience, and lasting friendships. I tell everyone to join Ross!
Kayline Pace Graduate Medical Assistant student at Lansing, MI campus Graduation: January 18, 2019
The experience here at Ross Education was fun and the instructors knew what they were doing, which made me really enjoy the entire experience.
Ricardo Leon Velasco Graduate Medical Assistant student at Johnson City, TN campus Graduation: December 19, 2018
I came to Ross Medical because I wanted to change my career path; I wanted something more hands on. I have the most amazing instructors who have supported me every step of the way. They are providing me with the skills I am going to need to be successful in the medical field. I am happy I chose Ross Medical Education Center.
Bonika Surline Graduate Medical Assistant student at Port Huron, MI campus Graduation: March 27, 2019
The main reason I would recommend Ross College is the atmosphere! All the staff members are caring and helpful! The instructors are knowledgeable in the fields they are teaching. As a result, students are passing and wanting to come to class!
Tonya Shaffer Graduate Medical Assistant student at North Canton, OH campus Graduation: April 24, 2019
I thank Ross for everything that they have done, from the first time I stepped foot on their campus. I was so afraid, but not so much of starting school, but afraid of failure. That was my biggest fear until talking with one of the school's administrators. She made me feel so comfortable in becoming a student at Ross. Once I started and met my teachers it became so easy. They took time out to help me when I didn't understand things, which made it that much easier. Once I got to my externship I was so excited yet afraid at the same time. However, where they sent me for my externship is where I wanted to go and upon completion, I am very proud to say that I got hired and I am still working there to this day! Ross helped me with my career so much that I enrolled in the online school for Ross and received my associates degree. It was hard being a full-time mom, employee, and student, but I did it and so can you, thanks to Ross and its amazing team!
Shayla Hall Graduate Medical Assistant student at Portage, MI campus Graduation: November 9, 2016
