What Is Medical Assisting?

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the U.S. Department of Labor, medical assisting is expected to remain a fast-growing occupation. Because of continuous technological advances in the medical field, medical assistants are required to be proficient in the use of computers and mechanical tools used in medical offices on an everyday basis.

History

• Until 1956, when the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) was founded, medical assistants did not belong to any specific care or support group. Historically, there was also an unclear definition regarding the duties and rights of those in the medical assisting profession. While this is still partially true (as rules and regulations vary from state to state), most certified medical assistants can perform clinical duties while uncertified professionals are limited to more clerical duties.

Function

• Medical assistants, or MAs, perform a variety of duties to help a clinic or medical office run smoothly. This includes everything from answering phones and taking appointments to explaining treatment procedures or sterilizing instruments. Calling in prescriptions, dealing with health insurance companies and handling billing and bookkeeping are also common practices.

Features

• Because there is no official licensing procedure for medical assistants, MAs are limited to jobs that have no direct physical contact with patients. For example, a medical assistant can update medical records or collect laboratory specimens, but he cannot administer injections, perform allergy tests or answer medical questions. The optional certification offered by the National Board of Medical Examiners and the AAMA allows medical assistants to perform additional duties, including taking X-rays and drawing blood.

Considerations

• Medical assistants do not work in dentists' offices, as this is a different field with its own specialization. They also don't play the role of pharmacy aides, physical therapist assistants and home health aides. Unless they have specific qualifications for it, they cannot conduct preliminary testing or advise patients on medication dosage and cannot authorize drug refills.

Potential

• Medical assistants work in a variety of settings and can expect different salaries based on their duties and the type of educational background they have. Most medical assistants work alongside general doctors in clinics, nursing care facilities or outpatient care centers. Others work with specialists, such as podiatrists or chiropractors. The highest earnings often go to those with a certification or working in private settings.