- Erwin Technical College
- Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the responsibilities of a Medical Assistant?
The Medical Assistant is a multi-skilled health care professional dedicated to assisting in all aspects of medical practice under the direct supervision of a physician. The Medical Assistant assists with patient care and care management, executes administrative and clinical procedures, and often performs managerial and supervisory functions. Medical Assisting is a demanding and competitive career. The Medical Assistant must be able to handle a fast-paced environment within a doctor’s office, clinic, or health care facility. A Medical Assistant must be able to perform multiple tasks in a demanding environment and directly interact with the public. Competence in the field also requires that the Medical Assistant adheres to ethical and legal standards of professional practice, recognizes and responds to emergencies, and demonstrates professional characteristics.
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What are the job opportunities for a Medical Assistant?
Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 16 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 123,000 openings for medical assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
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What career advancement exists for a Medical Assistant?
Medical Assistants often advance to become office managers, making decisions that determine the policies and procedures of the practice. Also, Medical Assisting is an excellent launching pad for people pursuing careers in other health care areas.
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Is there math computation involved in this field?
Yes, math skills are needed to perform many of the duties of a Medical Assistant.
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Is there much homework in the Medical Assistant program?
Yes. Not all assignments will be completed in class. It will be your responsibility to finish the assignment in the time allocated by the instructor. Students who devote and apply time to complete their assignments, and time to study the assigned content, tend to complete the program with higher grades and a better understanding of theoretical and clinical responsibilities.
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Other than a physician's office, who hires Medical Assistants?
Medical Assistants are hired by most medical settings that treat outpatients, such as walk-in clinics, occupational health clinics and, occasionally, hospital emergency rooms. With the skills they have, insurance companies hire Medical Assistants for pre-insurance physicals, as well as, clerical positions where medical terminology skills are needed.
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Industry Certifications
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Is job placement available upon graduation?
Advisory committee representatives and teachers provide students with guidance and recommendations.
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Are there physical demands associated with this program?
Yes, students are required to lift 50 pounds without any restrictions, stand, sit, squat and bend for extended periods of time. Students must also be able to perform CPR or Basic First Aid skills without restrictions.
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What type of people would enjoy working as Medical Assistants?
People in the medical assisting field usually possess these attributes: good communication skills, integrity, dependability, and are courteous, and energetic. Medical Assistants enjoy a fast-paced work environment, helping others, problem solving, critical thinking, are empathetic, and a team player.
Because medical assistants are held to a higher standard of professionalism than employees in other industries the way the medical assistant approaches the job and interacts with patients is critical to their success. Patients and your colleagues expect professionalism and place their care, trust, and confidence in those who are professional in demeanor.
Many skills that contribute to the professionalism of a medical assistant include being dependable, trustworthy, loyal, well-mannered, focus driven, flexible, credible, confidential, and enthusiastic.
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How can I learn more about this career field?