The Future of the Medical Assistant Profession and Potential Career Opportunities:

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The future of the medical assistant profession looks promising, with a growing demand for healthcare services and an increasing focus on primary care and preventive medicine. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, medical assistants are expected to play an increasingly key role in supporting healthcare providers and delivering high-quality care to patients.

Some potential career opportunities for medical assistants in the future include:

1. Specialized roles: Medical assistants may have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of healthcare, such as dermatology, cardiology, or pediatrics. Specialized training and certification can help medical assistants advance their careers and provide more specialized care to patients.

2. Leadership positions: With experience and additional training, medical assistants may have the opportunity to move into leadership positions, such as lead medical assistant, office manager, or supervisor. These roles involve overseeing the daily operations of a medical office or clinic and managing a team of medical assistants. The Allen School of Health Sciences Healthcare Management certificate program prepares those with medical experience with the skills, knowledge, credentials to pursue rewarding careers in healthcare management.

3. Telemedicine: The use of telemedicine and virtual healthcare services is expected to continue to grow in the future. Medical assistants may have the opportunity to work in telemedicine settings, providing remote support to healthcare providers and patients through virtual consultations and telehealth platforms.

4. Education and training: Some medical assistants may choose to pursue further education and training to become certified medical assistant instructors or educators. These roles involve training and mentoring future generations of medical assistants and contributing to the development of the profession.

5. Research and quality improvement: Medical assistants may have the opportunity to get involved in research projects, quality improvement initiatives, and other healthcare innovations. By contributing to research and data collection, medical assistants can help improve patient outcomes and advance the field of healthcare.

Overall, the future of the medical assistant profession is bright, with a wide range of career opportunities for those looking to advance their careers and make a positive impact on patient care. By staying informed about industry trends, pursuing continuing education, and training, and seeking out new opportunities for growth and advancement, medical assistants can position themselves for a successful and rewarding career in healthcare. To learn more about medical assistant career paths Contact the Allen School of Health Sciences to schedule your campus tour. www.allenschool.edu

A Day in the Life of a Medical Assistant:

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A typical day in the life of a medical assistant can vary depending on the healthcare setting in which they work, but here is a general overview of what a day might look like:

Morning:

  • Arrive at the healthcare facility and prepare for the day ahead.
  • Review the schedule and patient appointments for the day.
  • Greet patients as they arrive, check them in, and verify their personal and insurance information.
  • Escort patients to exam rooms and prepare them for their appointments by taking vital signs, updating medical histories, and assisting with any necessary paperwork.
  • Assist healthcare providers during patient examinations and procedures, providing support and ensuring patient comfort.
  • Perform basic clinical tasks such as administering injections, conducting EKGs, or collecting specimens for lab tests.
  • Prepare and sterilize medical instruments and equipment for use.

Afternoon:

  • Manage incoming phone calls and messages, scheduling appointments, and addressing patient inquiries.
  • Update patient records and medical charts with accurate and current information.
  • Assist with prescription refills, referrals to specialists, and other administrative tasks as needed.
  • Coordinate with other healthcare team members, such as nurses, physicians, and specialists, to ensure seamless patient care.

Follow up with patients on test results, treatment plans, and medication instructions.

  • Participate in team meetings or training sessions to stay current on healthcare protocols and procedures.

Evening:

  • Wrap any remaining administrative tasks and ensure that patient records are updated and accurate.
  • Clean and organize exam rooms, restock supplies, and prepare for the next day.
  • Reflect on the day’s experiences and interactions with patients, colleagues, and healthcare providers.
  • Review any continuing education opportunities or professional development resources to enhance skills and knowledge.
  • Head home, knowing that you have made a positive impact on the health and well-being of your patients and contributed to the functioning of the healthcare team.

The Allen School of Health Sciences prepares students for their medical assistant career. Our blended program is online with hands-on training in clinical classrooms. Students have an internship of 275 hours in our medical assistant program. Our internship prepares students for the day-to-day job duties of today’s medical assistants. Interested in learning more about the medical assistant career field? Contact the Allen School www.allenschool.edu

Essential Practical Skills Needed for Success as a Medical Assistant:

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As a Medical Assistant, there are a variety of practical skills that are essential for success in the field. Some of the key practical skills include:

  • Vital signs measurement: Medical assistants are responsible for taking and recording vital signs such as blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature, and respiratory rate.
  • Phlebotomy: Drawing blood samples for testing is a common task for medical assistants. Proper technique and knowledge of safety protocols are essential in this skill.
  • Patient care: Medical assistants often assist with patient care tasks such as dressing changes, wound care, and medication administration.
  • Medical history documentation: Medical assistants are responsible for accurately recording patients’ medical history, symptoms, and other relevant information in medical records.
  • EKGs: Performing electrocardiograms (EKGs) to monitor and record the electrical activity of the heart is another common task for medical assistants.
  • Assisting with minor surgical procedures: Medical assistants may assist healthcare providers with minor surgical procedures by preparing the patient, sterilizing equipment, and providing post-operative care.
  • Medical coding and billing: Understanding medical coding and billing practices is important for medical assistants to ensure accurate documentation and reimbursement for healthcare services.
  • Administrative tasks: Medical assistants often perform various administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, answering phones, and maintaining medical records.
  • Infection control: Knowledge of infection control protocols and proper sanitation techniques is essential to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
  • Communication skills: Effective communication skills are important for medical assistants to effectively interact with patients, healthcare providers, and other members of the healthcare team.

Overall, a combination of clinical and administrative skills is necessary for medical assistants to provide high-quality care and support in healthcare settings. If you are looking to learn more about becoming a medical assistant. Contact the Allen School today! For over sixty years we have assisted and trained thousands of people for their new careers in healthcare. www.allenschool.edu

Administrative Medical Assistants Play a Crucial Role in a Clinic or Doctors Office:

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Administrative medical assistants play a crucial role in the smooth and efficient operation of a clinic or doctor’s office. Here are some reasons why they are valuable to healthcare facilities:

Frontline communication: Administrative medical assistants are often the first point of contact for patients, whether in person or over the phone. They play a key role in providing excellent customer service, answering inquiries, scheduling appointments, and handling patient registration.

Organizational skills: Administrative medical assistants are responsible for managing various administrative tasks, such as maintaining patient records, processing insurance claims, and coordinating referrals. Their organizational skills help ensure that the office runs smoothly and that patients receive timely and accurate care.

Multitasking abilities: In a busy clinic or doctor’s office, administrative medical assistants must juggle multiple tasks simultaneously. They may be responsible for greeting patients, answering phones, scheduling appointments, and handling paperwork all at the same time. Their ability to multitask effectively is essential for keeping the office running efficiently.

How will you gain experience to be ready to work as an administrative medical assistant? The Allen School of Health Sciences offers a blended program of online and hands-on learning in a clinical classroom environment. Our program includes a 275-internship component built into our medical assistant program. This is where you will work side by side with doctors, RNs, and other healthcare professionals in a clinical and administrative setting. Our students put their skills to the test while interacting with patients and other healthcare professionals. Overall, administrative medical assistants play a vital role in ensuring efficient operation of medical facilities and providing excellent customer service to patients. To learn more about our medical assistant program contact the Allen School www.allenschool.edu today!

There is a Growing Need for Traveling Medical Assistants for Several Reasons:

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Shortage of healthcare professionals: There is a shortage of healthcare professionals in many areas, especially in rural and underserved communities. Traveling medical assistants can help fill this gap by providing much-needed support to healthcare facilities in these areas.

Increased demand for healthcare services: As the population continues to grow and age, there is an increased demand for healthcare services. Traveling medical assistants can help alleviate the burden on healthcare facilities by providing additional support and assistance to healthcare providers.

Flexibility and accessibility: Traveling medical assistants can provide flexibility and accessibility to patients who may not have easy access to healthcare services. By bringing medical assistance directly to patients in their communities, traveling medical assistants can improve access to care for those who may otherwise go without.

Support for busy healthcare professionals: Healthcare providers are often overworked and understaffed, leading to burnout and decreased quality of care. Traveling medical assistants can provide much-needed support to busy healthcare professionals, allowing them to focus on providing quality care to their patients.

Overall, traveling medical assistants play a crucial role in improving access to healthcare services, supporting healthcare professionals, and ensuring that patients receive the care they need. For over sixty years, the Allen School of Health Sciences has assisted and trained thousands of people for their new careers in healthcare. Contact the Allen School today! Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

There Are Several Benefits of Attending a Medical Assistant Trade School Over a Community College:

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  • Specialized curriculum: Medical Assistant trade schools typically offer a specialized curriculum focused specifically on medical assisting. This allows students to receive targeted training and education in the field, preparing them for a career as a medical assistant more quickly and efficiently. At the Allen School of Health Sciences, we focus solely on medical courses so that you can be fully prepared to go out in the working world. Students will be taking classes related to being a medical assistant, (Like EKG, Phlebotomy, and vital signs). Our accelerated program has eliminated the need for unnecessary general education classes.
  • Hands-on training: Trade schools often provide more hands-on training opportunities compared to community colleges. This practical experience can better prepare students for the demands of the job and help them develop the necessary skills and confidence to succeed in a healthcare setting. The Allen School of Health Sciences has a blended program of online learning and hands- on learning in a clinical classroom setting.
  • Career-focused education: Medical assistant trade schools are often more focused on preparing students for a specific career path. They may offer job placement assistance, externship opportunities, and networking events to help students secure employment in the healthcare field after graduation.
  • Faster completion time: Trade schools typically offer accelerated programs that can be completed in a shorter amount of time compared to community colleges. This allows students to enter the workforce sooner and start their careers as medical assistants more quickly. The Allen School of Health Sciences has an accelerated medical assistant program where students can graduate in as little as nine months.
  • Small class sizes: Medical assistant trade schools often have smaller class sizes, which can provide a more personalized learning experience and individualized attention from instructors. This can help students better understand the material and excel in their studies.
  • Overall, attending a medical assistant trade school can offer a more focused, practical, and career-oriented education compared to a community college, making it a beneficial choice for individuals looking to pursue a career as a medical assistant. Contact the Allen School today! We look forward to answering your questions and scheduling your campus tour. Visit www.allenschool.edu to learn more.

Summer is Coming to an End! Start Your New Career as a Medical Assistant Today:

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As summer ends, now is the perfect time to start your new career as a medical assistant! Here are a few reasons why beginning your journey in the fall can be a wonderful opportunity:  
  1. New beginnings: Fall is a time of change and new beginnings, making it an ideal time to start a new career path. By enrolling in a medical assistant program now, you can kickstart you’re training and embark on an exciting journey towards a fulfilling career in healthcare.
 
  1. Job opportunities: Many healthcare facilities hire new graduates and entry-level medical assistants in the fall to prepare for the busy winter months. By starting your training now, you may be well-positioned to take advantage of job opportunities that arise as you complete your program.
 
  1. Hands-on experience: Fall semester often includes opportunities for clinical rotations and practical hands-on experience in real healthcare settings. This hands-on experience can help you develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed as a medical assistant and provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of the role. The Allen School of Heath Sciences combines on-line and hands-on-learning in a clinical classroom environment. Our blended program allows students the opportunity to graduate in less than a year.
 
  1. Networking opportunities: Fall semester brings new students to campus and provides opportunities to build connections with classmates, instructors, and healthcare professionals. Networking can be a valuable tool in your career development, helping you to make connections, learn from others, and explore potential job opportunities in the field.
 
  1. Personal growth and development: Starting a new career as a medical assistant can be a transformative experience that allows you to grow personally and professionally. By pursuing your passion for healthcare and helping others, you can make a positive impact on the lives of patients and contribute to the well-being of your community.
  Don’t wait any longer to start your new career as a medical assistant! Take the first step towards a rewarding and fulfilling career by enrolling in a program today and beginning your journey in the fall. The Allen School of Health Sciences is now enrolling students for early acceptance. Contact us and become part of the Allen School family. www.allenschool.edu  

Medical Assistant Jobs with a Specialization in Working with Kids:

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Medical assistants who specialize in working with children can pursue opportunities in pediatric healthcare settings, such as pediatrician offices, pediatric clinics, children’s hospitals, and pediatric specialty practices. Here are some medical assistant jobs that specialize in working with kids:

1. Pediatric Medical Assistant: Pediatric medical assistants work under the supervision of pediatricians to provide care to children of all ages. They may assist with patient intake, vital sign measurements, immunizations, and patient education. Pediatric medical assistants must have excellent communication skills and a compassionate demeanor to work effectively with children and their families.

2. Pediatric Oncology Medical Assistant: Pediatric oncology medical assistants work in pediatric oncology departments and assist in providing care to children with cancer and blood disorders. They may help with administering chemotherapy, monitoring patients for side effects, and providing emotional support to children and their families. Pediatric oncology medical assistants must have a strong attention to detail and the ability to work in a high-stress environment.

3. Pediatric Cardiology Medical Assistant: Pediatric cardiology medical assistants work with pediatric cardiologists to provide care for children with heart conditions. They may assist with performing electrocardiograms (EKGs), echocardiograms, and stress tests on pediatric patients. Pediatric cardiology medical assistants must have a good understanding of cardiac anatomy and physiology and be able to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.

4. Pediatric Surgery Medical Assistant: Pediatric surgery medical assistants work in pediatric surgical departments and assist in caring for children undergoing surgical procedures. They may help with pre-operative preparations, post-operative care, wound care, and patient education. Pediatric surgery medical assistants must have strong organizational skills and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced surgical environment.

5. Pediatric Urgent Care Medical Assistant: Pediatric urgent care medical assistants work in pediatric urgent care centers and provide care to children with acute illnesses and injuries. They may assist with triaging patients, performing rapid tests, administering medications, and providing wound care. Pediatric urgent care medical assistants must have excellent clinical skills and the ability to work quickly and accurately in urgent care settings.

Keep in mind the job market is competitive. As part of your coursework at the Allen School of Health Sciences is your internship. This can allow you to get real-world experience for your resume and provides you the opportunity to work side-by-side with doctors, patients, and staff. This can assist in understanding the specialty practice in which you are interested. These are just a few examples of medical assistant jobs that specialize in working with children. Specializing in pediatric care can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path for medical assistants who have a passion for working with kids and making a positive impact on their health and well-being. Contact the Allen School Today! Learn more about how you can become part of the healthcare field. www.allenschool.edu

Emerging Medical Trends and How it Will Shape Your Future as a Medical Assistant:

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  • Telemedicine: Telemedicine, or the use of technology to provide healthcare services remotely, is becoming increasingly popular. As a medical assistant, you may be responsible for assisting healthcare providers with virtual patient consultations, managing electronic health records, and coordinating telehealth appointments. Familiarizing yourself with telemedicine tools and platforms can enhance your skill set and make you an asset in the evolving healthcare landscape.
  • Health informatics: The field of health informatics involves the collection, analysis, and interpretation of healthcare data to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare processes. As a medical assistant, you may be involved in managing electronic health records, analyzing data to identify trends and patterns, and ensuring the security and confidentiality of patient information. Understanding the principles of health informatics can help you excel in your role and contribute to the delivery of high-quality patient care.
  • Personalized medicine: Personalized medicine involves tailoring medical treatment and interventions to individual patients based on their unique genetic makeup, lifestyle factors, and preferences. As a medical assistant, you may work closely with healthcare providers to collect and document patient information, assist with genetic testing and counseling, and support patients in understanding and adhering to personalized treatment plans. Embracing the principles of personalized medicine can enhance your ability to provide patient-centered care and contribute to improved patient outcomes.
  • Integrative healthcare: Integrative healthcare combines conventional medical treatments with complementary and alternative therapies to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health and wellness. As a medical assistant, you may encounter patients seeking integrative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or herbal medicine. Understanding the principles of integrative healthcare and collaborating with healthcare providers to support patients in their treatment choices can enhance your role as a medical assistant and contribute to holistic patient care.
  • Remote patient monitoring: Remote patient monitoring involves the use of technology to track and monitor patient health data outside of traditional healthcare settings. As a medical assistant, you may be responsible for educating patients on how to use remote monitoring devices, interpreting and reporting data to healthcare providers, and coordinating follow-up care based on monitoring results. Familiarizing yourself with remote patient monitoring technology can position you as a key player in supporting patients in managing chronic conditions and improving health outcomes.

If you have a love of helping people and are interested in the medical field, contact the Allen School to schedule your career planning session. www.allenschool.edu

Going back to school as a working adult

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Going back to school as a working adult?

A growing number of career and vocational training schools now offer programs oriented toward working adults. People frequently enroll in career schools to acquire new skills for a new career. Accelerated programs and flexible schedules are making it easier and more convenient for working adults to finish school. Enrolling in a career school is a great way to make a career transition, learn new skills, study subjects of personal interest, and enhance marketability in a competitive job market. Unfortunately, many would-be students who desire to position themselves for a career change or return to school do not do so because of fear.

The First Step is Admitting It

The following concerns and fears are shared by many working adults reluctant to return to school: Working adults are concerned about the cost of returning to school, the time commitment involved, and the challenges of attending classes with younger students. Many are also concerned that their employers will be unimpressed with their new career. However, most working adults enrolling in career school end up fitting in well and are more than up to the challenge of returning to school as an adult. They usually enroll with fear and concern, only to later realize that their fear and concern were unfounded.

I’m Afraid It Will Be Too Expensive

It can be expensive to return to school. The expense alone is enough to cause many working adults to reconsider their decision to return to school. However, when education is viewed as an investment, the costs of attending school do not seem as large of a sacrifice. It’s best to have a long term rather than short term perspective. Salary increases associated with obtaining more education often offset the cost of returning to school. Many schools are relatively inexpensive to attend. Before deciding against returning to school based on the cost, consider how earning your degree or getting advanced training will help you in your current or new career.  Also, consider what your school can do to help offset tuition.  Do they offer Financial Aid to those who qualify?  Payment plans?

I’m Afraid It Will Take Up Too Much Time

It’s not unreasonable for adult students to feel overwhelmed with their current responsibilities. As a result, returning to school can be that much more intimidating. Working full-time, raising a family, and fulfilling other responsibilities are enough to occupy already full schedules.

However, it’s possible to make time to return to school–and many adults do it quite successfully. It may require sacrificing time spent enjoying leisurely activities, but it is possible to make the time. If you set a goal and have an unwavering commitment to reach it, you can develop the ability to make sacrifices that will allow you to accomplish your educational objectives.

I’m Afraid It Will Take Forever to Complete My Program

The Allen School offers accelerated learning programs. As a result, these programs require less time than would be required if one pursued their degree the traditional way. Our modules are 5 weeks long, and educational quality is not sacrificed to speed through course material. Students can graduate from their program in as little as 9 months.

Why Make the Move?

Since many career schools cater exclusively to working students, there are few, if any, reasons why an adult should hesitate to return to school if they feel it makes sense. They can greatly benefit from the decision to further their education. The following are just a few of the many benefits of returning to school as an adult:

  • Promotion or career advancement opportunities: Returning to school is one way to improve your chances of getting promoted, or it is one strategy for beginning a career transition.
  • Finish a started program: Many students find opportunities in the workforce before completing school. However, it is never too late to return and start a new career.
  • Demonstrate to your children and future generations the importance of education: If you set an example for your children, they are more than likely to attend school and enjoy the benefits of a career can offer.

It may seem intimidating and daunting to enroll in school, but this should not be a reason for missing out on the benefits of acquiring more education. Adults who simply put together a good, workable plan can smoothly make the transition back to school and make the experience a great success. Ready to start a Medical Assistant Program?

Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our fall classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family.

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