Medical Assistant Programs in Colorado

Medical Assistant CoursesWhether you live in the state of Colorado or are planning a move to this beautiful state, you will be happy to know that medical assistants are in high demand. The Denver area is an especially good region for finding a job in this position. In fact, the 2013 data results from the Bureau of Labor Statistics have placed the Denver Metropolitan Area as one of the top employers of medical assistants in the country. This demand is only expected to increase at least until the year 2020.

In Colorado, you are not required to obtain any certification in order to work as a medical assistant. However, many employers have a policy only to hire those medical assistants who have taken the necessary steps to earn their certification. Obtaining your certification as a medical assistant will increase your chances of getting a higher paying job in Colorado.

In order to receive this important certification, you must first complete one of the accredited medical assistant programs in Colorado. There are nearly a dozen such programs offered in the state. It is very important that you only consider Colorado medical assistant schools that offer a program that has been accredited by the Department of Education, Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), or Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Medical Assistant ColoradoYou can choose a training program that is offered in a traditional-style classroom with hands-on clinical training. There are also several online medical assistant programs available in Colorado. These programs offer all of the instruction and testing online for the convenience of the student. Hands-on clinical training is typically completed at a local medical facility that has agreed to work with the school. This option is perfect for students who need to continue working, while completing their training.

Without this accreditation, you will not be able to sit for the medical assistant certification examination or earn your certification. Any of the Colorado medical assistant schools you are considering should be able to tell you if the school is accredited or not. You can also check with the American Association of Medical Assistants, who administers the certification examination.

Completion of a medical assistant program and successful completion of the certification examination will prepare you for a job in the administration office.  You can also work in a variety of health care facilities or assist a physician with patient care. You are likely to have no problem finding a well-paying position in your area. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the average salary for a medical assistant in Colorado in 2013 was $32,700.

More Information about Medical Assisting Programs in Colorado

Medical Assistant Education in Colorado: Your Guide to Getting Started

If you’re considering a career in medical assisting in Colorado, you’ll need to understand the education and training requirements necessary to pursue this path. In this article, we’ll explore the different educational options available for aspiring medical assistants in Colorado, including certificate programs, associate degree programs, and online courses.

Certificate Programs

One of the most common paths to becoming a medical assistant in Colorado is by completing a certificate program. These programs typically last between 9 and 12 months and provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to work in a medical office or clinic. Some of the top certificate programs for medical assistants in Colorado include:

  • Concorde Career College
  • Pima Medical Institute
  • National American University
  • Intellitec College
  • Everest College

Associate Degree Programs

Another option for those interested in medical assisting is to pursue an associate degree program. These programs typically take two years to complete and provide students with a more comprehensive education than certificate programs. In addition to core medical assisting courses, associate degree programs often include general education courses in subjects like English, math, and science. Some of the top associate degree programs for medical assistants in Colorado include:

  • Front Range Community College
  • Pueblo Community College
  • Community College of Denver
  • Arapahoe Community College
  • Colorado Mountain College

Online Courses

For those who need a more flexible schedule, online courses can be a great option for obtaining the necessary education and training to become a medical assistant. Online courses can range from individual classes to full certificate or degree programs. Some reputable online medical assistant programs available in Colorado include:

  • Penn Foster Career School
  • Ashworth College
  • Herzing University
  • Keiser University

Requirements for Becoming a Medical Assistant in Colorado

In addition to completing an education program, there are certain requirements that must be met to become a medical assistant in Colorado. These requirements include:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Completion of a medical assisting program
  • Certification by a recognized accrediting organization (such as the American Association of Medical Assistants or the National Healthcare Association)

While certification is not required by law in Colorado, many employers prefer to hire certified medical assistants. Obtaining certification can also increase job opportunities and earning potential.

Job Outlook for Medical Assistants in Colorado

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants in Colorado is projected to grow 23% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to be driven by the aging population and increased demand for healthcare services.

Conclusion

Medical assisting is a rewarding and growing field in Colorado, with a variety of educational options available to aspiring medical assistants. Whether you choose a certificate program, associate degree program, or online courses, it’s important to research and select a program that fits your individual needs and goals. By completing an accredited program and obtaining certification, you can increase your job opportunities and earning potential in this exciting and dynamic field.