Medical Assistant Programs Kentucky

Online Medical AssistantThere is more to Kentucky than just horses and bluegrass. In fact, it is one of the fastest economically expanding states in the country. Numerous manufacturers and larger companies have moved in the state, causing a large demand for more healthcare facilities. This, in turn, has created a huge demand for qualified medical assistants, who provide vital supportive healthcare services.

In 2013, there were more than 7,800 medical assistants working in the state of Kentucky, according to data gathered by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure is expected to increase greatly over the next several years. This data also reported that the average medical assistant in Kentucky earned an annual salary of $27,640. This salary is slightly below the national average of $30,780, but it is important to realize that many of these jobs also come with great benefits.

While the state of Kentucky does not require medical assistants to become certified, or even obtain specialized training, many employers do. This is because many liability insurance companies are now requiring medical facilities to only hire medical assistants who have approved training. The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) offers this certification to anyone who completes one of the accredited medical assistant programs in Kentucky and passes the certification examination.

Medical Assistant KentuckyYour first step to becoming a Certified Medical Assistant is to find a qualified program at one of the Kentucky medical assistant schools. There are several such schools in the state and many of them offer accredited medical assistant programs in Kentucky that are approved by the AAMA. You should always check with AAMA to make sure any program you are considering meets its approval before beginning classes.

You have the option of finding a medical assistant school that offers programs that can be taken on campus or online. Online medical assistant programs are perfect for anyone who needs to continue working or is raising a family while taking classes. This is because online classes offer a more flexible schedule. You may be required to complete some hands-on clinical training at a medical facility in your location, but your medical assistant school will help you plan this training.

Once your training is complete, you will be able to take the AAMA medical assistant certification examination. Successful completion of this exam will earn you the title of a Certified Medical Assistant. With this certification, you can perform an array of administrative duties, such as filing insurance claims, greeting patients, and scheduling appointments. You will also be able to perform many patient-based duties, including taking blood tests, administering immunizations, and assisting with patient examinations.

More Information about Medical Assisting Programs in Kentucky

Medical Assistant Education in Kentucky: What You Need to Know

Medical assistants are essential members of healthcare teams, responsible for performing a range of administrative and clinical tasks to support physicians and other healthcare professionals. If you’re considering a career as a medical assistant in Kentucky, this article will provide you with information on the education and training requirements, certification, and career outlook for medical assistants in the state.

Education and Training Requirements

To become a medical assistant in Kentucky, you’ll need to complete a medical assistant training program. These programs are available through vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes and typically take 9-12 months to complete. It’s recommended that you choose a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) to ensure that you receive a quality education that meets industry standards.

Medical assistant training programs cover both clinical and administrative aspects of the job. Clinical training includes courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, phlebotomy, and other medical procedures. Administrative training covers courses in medical office procedures, medical billing and coding, and electronic health records.

Certification for Medical Assistants

While certification is not required to become a medical assistant in Kentucky, it’s highly recommended. Certification demonstrates to employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform your job duties effectively. Two organizations offer medical assistant certification: the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

To be eligible for certification, you’ll need to graduate from an accredited medical assistant training program and pass an exam. The AAMA certification exam covers both administrative and clinical knowledge, including patient care, anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and medical office management. The NHA certification exam covers similar topics and includes 150 multiple-choice questions. Both exams require a passing score of 70% or higher.

Career Outlook for Medical Assistants in Kentucky

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 19% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an aging population and the increasing need for healthcare services. In Kentucky, medical assistants earn an average salary of $34,010 per year, slightly lower than the national average.

Medical assistants in Kentucky can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may also specialize in certain areas, such as ophthalmology or pediatrics.

Conclusion

Becoming a medical assistant in Kentucky can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice. Completion of a medical assistant training program and certification can enhance job prospects and increase earning potential. With the healthcare industry expanding and the demand for medical assistants on the rise, now is a great time to pursue a career in this field.