Medical Assistant Programs in Maine

Medical Assistant EducationThe medical assistant profession is one of the most important supporting roles of the nation’s healthcare system. Medical assistants communicate with insurance companies, record and file patients’ health records, and manage the bookkeeping of the office, among many other tasks. It is a fulfilling career with room for growth and personal development.

Medical assistants are becoming a larger and more important role in society as medical office tasks continue to be assigned to medical assistants, baby boomers begin to age, and more people gain access to affordable healthcare. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the profession is expected to grow by 29% in the next eight years.
Medical assistants can be found in many work environments, including: the offices of physicians, hospitals, specialty health practitioner offices, outpatient care centers, rehabilitation centers, insurance carriers, scientific research and development centers, and educational establishments.  Medical assistants enjoy a stable career and comparable pay with regard to their cost of living.

Medical Assistant MaineMedical assistants can be hired with only a high school diploma or equivalent, though it is recommended that candidates pursue further education because not every medical establishment will accept candidates with these achievements alone. Medical assistant programs and certifications can help teach and verify that candidates learn information that is vital to the profession. The core program includes anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, medical ethics and laws.  The program also teaches how to administer first aid, how to use medical software, how to process lab work, and how to run a business from an administrative role. There are also several specialty programs that medical assistants can take part in, including oncology, pediatrics, geriatrics, pharmaceuticals, obstetrics, etc.

In addition to the national American Association of Medical Assistants, the state of Maine supports medical assistants with its organization, Maine State Society of Medical Assistants. The society provides guidance for those unsure about seeking a career in the medical assistant profession.  They also provide support for those who wish to pursue further education in the field, and it provides a valuable and healthy way for medical assistants to network and share with each other.

With the upcoming growth of the field, the medical assistant profession is a stable career choice that will offer fulfillment and plenty of development opportunities. With the support of the Maine State Society of Medical Assistants, candidates have access to some of the best programs available, and a network of peers to offer help and guidance.

More Information about Medical Assisting Programs in Maine

Medical Assistant Education in Maine: Requirements and Career Outlook

If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant in Maine, this article will provide you with information on education and training requirements, certification, and career outlook for medical assistants in the state.

Education and Training Requirements

To become a medical assistant in Maine, you’ll need to complete a training program. These programs are typically available through vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes and can take anywhere from 9 to 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). Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and prepares you for the challenges of the job.

Medical assistant training programs cover both administrative and clinical 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 Maine, it’s highly recommended. Certification shows employers that you have the knowledge and skills 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 Maine

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 Maine, medical assistants earn an average salary of $36,600 per year.

Medical assistants in Maine 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 Maine 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. Remember to choose an accredited program and consider certification to ensure you are prepared to succeed as a medical assistant in Maine.