Why Medical Assistants are in Demand and How to Become One
Medical Assistants are vital parts of the healthcare team, whether they are assisting in a medical emergency or performing patient check-in for well checkups. And demand for their services is predicted to rise at a considerably greater rate than the national average through 2030. If you want to work as a Medical Assistant, your talents and compassion are likely to be in demand today and in the future.
Medical Assistants are in great demand across the country, with employment notably strong in the west. According to data, California employs the most Medical Assistants, followed by New Mexico and Alaska, with the largest concentration of Medical Assistant employment and location quotients. Medical Assistants earn the highest mean pay in Alaska and Washington. If you’re thinking about a career in this field, where you reside may influence how fast you find work and what type of compensation and perks you may anticipate.
Reasons for the High Demand for Medical Assistants
Over the next decade, healthcare is anticipated to generate millions more jobs. While many of those occupations are held by individuals such as physicians, nurses, and specialists, they are supported by a large team of people. What is the driving force behind the need for Medical Assistants?
1. The Pandemic Changed the Scope of Practice for the Medical Assistant
During the COVID-19 pandemic, several states widened the range of a Medical Assistant’s responsibilities to meet the rapid increase of patients. Medical Assistants were brought in to assist with nasal swab tests and screens for patients suspected of having COVID-19. Certain states, like Washington, also permitted licensed Medical Assistants to give vaccinations under the supervision of a registered nurse. Since COVID-19 may continue to damage people’s health for years, data imply that the increased need for Medical Assistants is partly due to their expanded scope of practice during the pandemic.
2. Retired Baby Boomers Leave a Gap in the Workforce
The generation born between 1946 and 1964, known as the Baby Boomers, is now retiring. As they leave their positions, companies are trying to fill the gap with new, more cost-effective workers – some of which are Medical Assistants. These positions require less education, less pay, and no license or certification.
3. The Affordable Care Act and Medical Assisting Schools
The Affordable Care Act has increased the need for Medical Assistants who help with the administration at medical offices. Medical Assisting Schools have seen a sharp spike in enrollment to help meet the need.
How to Become a Medical Assistant
Assistants may update a patient’s medical file, complete out insurance papers, and handle phone calls at a practitioner’s office. Most medical assistants have some form of postsecondary education, such as a certificate. Others join the field with a high school diploma and learn on the job.
Education
Medical Assistants typically complete a postsecondary award such as a certificate. Others may enter the occupation with a high school diploma and learn through on-the-job training.
Training
Medical Assistants learn their skills on the job. They learn procedural techniques and patient care as they work. Employers may offer paid on-the-job training, classroom instruction, or online courses.
Certification
The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) offers voluntary certification through the Board of Certification.
The Bottom Line
Medical assistant employment is expected to expand 18% between 2020 and 2030, substantially faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth will result from an increased need for medical services. If you seek a rewarding, fulfilling career making a difference in people’s lives, becoming a Medical Assistant might be a great fit.
We at Medical Career Academy are committed to offering high-quality education in various health care disciplines. Smaller class sizes enable us to concentrate on each student personally and give full assistance at every stage. We provide a hands-on, real-world experience and a digital one generated from highly competent and experienced educators. If you think you can excel in a medical assisting career, check out our medical assistant classes in Indiana today.