Medical assistants are in high demand, with job growth projected to increase much faster than average in the coming years. If you’re looking for a flexible and accessible route into this rewarding healthcare career, Medical Assistant Online Programs could be the perfect fit for you.
What Can You Do With Medical Assistant Online Programs?
Earning an associate degree through medical assistant online programs opens doors to a variety of healthcare settings. The largest employers for medical assistants include state, local, and private hospitals, physicians’ offices, outpatient care centers, and chiropractic offices. Beyond these traditional settings, graduates of medical assistant online programs can also find fulfilling roles in drug and rehabilitation facilities, assisted living centers, and nursing homes, showcasing the broad applicability of this qualification.
How Much Do Medical Assistant Online Programs Cost?
The cost of medical assistant online programs can vary, but Penn Foster College, for example, offers tuition starting at $99 per credit. It’s important to visit the program’s tuition page for the most up-to-date information and to understand any additional semester fees that may apply. Online programs often present a more affordable pathway to education due to reduced overhead costs and flexible learning schedules that can minimize disruptions to your current income.
Are Medical Assistant Online Programs Accredited?
Accreditation is a crucial factor when choosing medical assistant online programs. Penn Foster College, as an example, has been nationally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) for over 40 years. DEAC is a recognized accrediting body known for its rigorous standards in distance education. Accreditation ensures that the program meets specific quality benchmarks and that your education is recognized and respected by employers and professional organizations. Furthermore, participation in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements can indicate the program’s legitimacy and wider acceptance across different states.
What Medical Assistant Skills Will You Learn Online?
Medical assistant online programs are designed to equip you with a comprehensive skillset essential for success in the healthcare field. These programs cover fundamental areas such as psychology to understand patient behavior, pharmacology for medication knowledge, medical coding and reimbursement methodologies for administrative tasks, and healthcare law, ethics, and patient confidentiality to ensure professional conduct. You’ll also develop a strong grasp of medical terminology and learn about common medical surgical procedures and clinical procedure theory. Moreover, reputable online programs, like Penn Foster’s, often integrate college-level courses to build well-rounded skills in computer literacy, written and interpersonal communication, humanities, liberal arts, math, and sciences, enhancing your overall professional capabilities.
What Certification Can You Get After Online Medical Assistant Programs?
Upon graduating from a medical assistant online program, you will typically earn an associate degree. While the degree itself signifies your qualification, professional certifications in the medical assisting field are usually granted by independent third-party organizations, not directly by the educational institution. However, well-structured online medical assistant programs, such as the one at Penn Foster, are specifically designed to prepare you to sit for these crucial industry certification exams. These programs often include preparatory materials and resources. For instance, Penn Foster’s program includes preparation for the National Healthcareer Association’s (NHA) Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) Certification and even provides a voucher to cover the exam cost, demonstrating their commitment to your career readiness.
Where Can Medical Assistants Work After Online Training?
A career as a medical assistant, accessible through online programs, offers a fast-paced and dynamic environment within the healthcare sector. While physicians’ offices remain the primary employer for medical assistants, your career opportunities are diverse after completing medical assistant online programs. Graduates are well-prepared to work in state, local, and private hospitals, outpatient care centers, and even specialized settings like chiropractors’ offices. The demand for medical assistants extends across various healthcare environments, reflecting the versatility of the profession. It’s worth noting that many medical assistant roles may require flexible work schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate patient needs and healthcare facility operations.
What is the Salary Expectation for Medical Assistants?
Medical assistants earn a competitive median salary. The median annual salary for medical assistants is approximately $42,000 per year.* Coupled with the exceptionally strong job growth outlook, pursuing medical assistant online programs positions you for both immediate earning potential and long-term career stability in a rapidly expanding field.
Note: *Salary data can vary depending on location, experience, and employer. Refer to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data for the most current salary information.
