5 Reasons You Should Study Medical Assisting
The global health crisis caused by the COVID pandemic caused a sudden shift in the healthcare industry. It highlighted the shortage of nursing staff—and made it worse. And when the pandemic comes to an end, there will be job vacancies. According to the Deloitte 2021 Global Health Care Outlook, global health care spending will continue to increase by an average of 10.3% in 2021 and 2022. The spending growth will most likely be driven by the aging population, a shift in care demand, gradual economic recovery, technological and clinical advancements, and improvements in the public healthcare system.
Weighing the given factors, there will be an increasing demand not only for nurses, but also for allied medical services, and among them—medical assistants. Based on the data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for medical assistants is projected to grow by as much as 19% from 2019 to 2029.
Medical assistants are an essential and huge part of the healthcare industry. Their roles include a diverse range of responsibilities that form a critical link between the adiministrative and medical areas in healthcare; while making patient care and consultations more pleasant and efficient. Here’s why you should consider becoming a medical assistant, and how.
Benefits of studying to become a medical assistant
Convenience of getting certification
One of the primary reasons most individuals choose to get a job as a medical assistant over other healthcare careers is the ease of getting a medical assisting diploma. Those who want to work in the medical field without the long years of study lean towards getting a Medical Assisting Diploma, which can be earned in as little as 12 months. During this period, students learn theory and participate in clinical training to prepare them for their roles.
Plenty of job prospects
There is no shortage of job opportunities for medical assistants. They can work in hospitals, medical clinics, surgical centers, ambulatory care, and even in nursing homes. Simply put, any workplace with doctors likely has job opportunities for medical assistants. As per the BLS report, out of the 725,200 medical assistant jobs in 2019, about 57% were in physician’s offices, while the rest were spread out in local and state hospitals, outpatient care centers, and chiropractic clinics.
Good pay
Due to the increase in demand for medical assistants, most employers are also willing to compensate these allied health workers with a good salary. According to the BLS, medical assistants can earn an annual mean wage of $42,330 or $20.35 per hour, particularly those working in outpatient care centers.
Flexible yet stable career
Another perk of getting a medical assisting diploma is the opportunity to enjoy a flexible yet stable career. While most medical assistants have a full-time, 40-hour work week, it’s still possible for them to enjoy some flexibility in their schedules. They can work days, nights, or on a part-time basis to allow for personal growth or career advancement.
The continued growth of the healthcare industry means there will be an ongoing demand for medical staff, including medical assistants. Human patient care will always be needed, and as technology evolves it will be there to help medical assistants instead of replacing them.
Personal fulfillment
If you like to care for others, medical assisting is an excellent and fulfilling career choice. It is also satisfying to learn how to deal with patients and to be appreciated for your efforts, making appointments and check-ups hassle-free for patients and doctors.
A medical assisting diploma opens doors of opportunity for you to learn and grow as a person while making a difference in the world. Medical assistants are among the fastest-growing healthcare careers where your contribution and skills will be valued within many areas of the healthcare industry.
Learn how to get a medical assisting diploma by exploring our programs page.
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