If you’re interested in working in the medical field, a medical assistant program might be the best opportunity for you. You only have to study for ten months to get a diploma, and then you can begin building your career in the healthcare industry.
As a medical assistant, you can do lab work, assist doctors, take vitals, and interpret their results. You also perform administrative tasks to ensure patient records are accurate and confidential, as well as other functions that are vital for excellent care.
However, if you decide that a medical assistant job is not for you, you can explore other opportunities with your diploma. Continue reading to learn more about three jobs and careers you can pursue after medical assistant training.
1. Public Health Inspector
A public health inspector works in the government to monitor businesses and facilities and see if they are following all regulations set by the state. You will play a vital role in ensuring that the general public won’t encounter health hazards and possible illnesses from hotels, swimming pools, restaurants, housing facilities, and other public areas.
Where Will You Work?
As a public health inspector, your job can be at an office or a factory, but mostly, you will be out in the field and traveling. Because some of the responsibilities can mean exposure to hazardous situations, you will usually have to wear protective clothing and equipment while on the job.
How Much Will You Earn?
According to the BLS, the average hourly wage for public health inspectors is $37, amounting to around $78,000 annually.
2. Nursing Assistant
As a nursing assistant, you will care for patients of various ages and health conditions. Some of your tasks may include helping them with their meals, dressing up, bathing, and other hygiene needs. You will also ensure that they take their medications on time, regularly check their vital signs, and help them meet all of their daily needs.
Where Will You Work?
Nursing assistants usually work in hospitals, private homes, assisted living facilities, long-term health facilities, and correctional institutions.
How Much Will You Earn?
According to the BLS, the average hourly wage is $15 to $20 for nursing assistants, around $31,000 to $41,000 in a year.
3. Home Health Aide
A home health aide provides care for their patient to keep their treatments in check. Usually, home health aides cater to the needs of the elderly, people with disabilities, and people with chronic illnesses.
As a home health aide, there is also the need to build a solid relationship with the patient and their family, not only to give them medical attention.
Where Will You Work?
As a home health aide, you will work in the residence of your patient. However, home health agencies, hospice facilities, or staffing agencies will assign you to your patients.
How Much Will You Earn?
According to the BLS, the average income for home health aides is from $13 to $16 an hour, or $26,000 to $34,000 a year.
Final Thoughts
Getting a medical assistant diploma is an excellent way to start your career in the healthcare industry. Aside from becoming a medical assistant, this program will also allow you to explore other career paths in the field.
If you are ready to start your healthcare career, take medical assistant classes in Indiana through Medical Career Academy. Our programs offer high-quality education with smaller class sizes so you can get full support throughout your journey. Learn more about our medical training classes by messaging us today.