The medical field is vast, but not everyone has the luxury to invest the amount of time and money required to become a doctor or dentist. Healthcare industry in Canada needs qualified professionals, and medical office assistant career can be a great place to start.
A well-managed, organized office is vital to provide high-quality healthcare services. If you are compassionate and detail-oriented, the medical office assistant career is a promising choice. Before we move on to why you should invest in becoming one, let’s understand the role and responsibilities of a medical assistant.
What do medical office assistants do?
Medical assistants work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics and outpatient care centers; thus, patient care is the first and foremost concern. Often a patient’s first point of contact, medical office assistants are responsible for clear communication both with patients, physicians and other staff.
MA’s handle administrative duties such as updating patient records, scheduling appointments, patient billing and insurance. Apart from that, physicians’ assistance terms of taking and recording patients’ vital signs, explaining procedures and administering medications come with the job.
Whether you are planning to enroll or have recently started the program, read on these top reasons that make medical office assistant course the right choice for a career.
1. Job Growth is Steady
The employment outlook for medical office assistants is good in Ontario for the 2018-2020 period. The growth of the population, baby boomers and demand for health services is creating more job opportunities for this occupation.
2. Quick Entry to the Healthcare Field as Medical Office Assistant
Unlike many medical careers, medical office assistant/administration diplomas can be earned in less than a year. Most programs include experiential learning, a combination of classroom and lab studies that include medical terminology and anatomy.
3. Career Advancement
Certifications such as Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) will increase marketability in the field. Medical assistants can pursue higher studies in the medical field as well, continuing education to become a nurse is one of the most chose career paths.
4. Work in Variety of Settings
Medical assistants are needed in every healthcare setting – hospitals, clinics, private practice and ambulatory care. Medical assistants also work in health practitioners’ offices and outpatient care centers.
5. Predictable Schedules
Unlike most healthcare professionals, medical assistants are not required to work irregular hours or long shifts. A steady work schedule will give you the option to choose to work full-time and part-time.
6. Work from Anywhere
Medical assistants can work anywhere across Canada. A fresh start in a new province will not be a tough task. Experience and certifications carry the same weight no matter where you wish to relocate.
7. Best for Newcomers
Medical Office Assistant diploma can be the best way for newcomers to begin their journey into the medical field. It may be the perfect stepping stone for medical professionals in their home country to start in Canada’s healthcare industry.
Ready to become a medical office assistant?
BizTech College offers 28 weeks diploma program in Medical Office Administration. Students gain hands-on training for patient support as well as soft skills needed to succeed. You will also have the opportunity to work with qualified professionals during clinical placements.
