There is currently a high demand in the state of Arizona for nearly all careers in the healthcare industry, and medical assistants are no different. However, a career as a medical assistant offers one of the most diversified careers available because it allows you to work in both the administrative offices and the clinical side of any health care facility. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2013 there were 31,410 medical assistants employed across the county, which is one of the highest rates in the country.
Unlike some other states around the country, certification is not required in order to work as a medical assistant in the state of Arizona. This means that you will not have to take an examination prior to obtaining employment. However, you are required to complete a comprehensive training program that is accredited by the BHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools), ACCHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Program), or the Department of Education.
Some programs designed by licensed allopathic physicians are also acceptable, but the programs must meet the same training requirement as an accredited program and must be able to prove the graduates competence as a medical assistant. The Arizona Medical Board can provide more information about these types of programs. If you were employed as a medical assistant before February 2000, you may be recognized as a medical assistant without the need to complete any training requirements.
There are several Arizona medical assistant schools for you to select from if you determine this is the right career option for you. The first thing you want to do when looking for medical assistant programs in Arizona is to make sure the program is accredited. In addition, to traditional classroom training, you can select an online medical assistant program. These programs allow you to complete the majority of your classwork at home, at a time that is convenient for you. However, you will be required to complete some hands-on clinical training at a medical facility in your location.
Completion of any of the accredited assistant medical programs in Arizona will allow you to obtain a job as a medical assistant. You will be able to perform a variety of duties, such as billing and/or coding, schedule appointments, update patient files, administer injections, take specimens, and perform some nebulizer treatments. Although, certification is not required, taking and passing the medical assistant certification examination can improve your employment opportunities and increase your annual wage.
More information about Medical Assisting Programs in Arizona
Medical assisting is a rapidly growing career field in Arizona. As healthcare providers continue to expand their practices and more individuals seek medical attention, there is a growing need for trained medical assistants. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, it is important to understand the education requirements and options available in Arizona.
Education Requirements for Medical Assistants in Arizona
In Arizona, there are no formal education requirements for medical assistants. However, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a medical assisting program from an accredited school. Additionally, certification is not required in Arizona, but it can improve your job prospects and earning potential.
Medical Assistant Programs in Arizona
There are many medical assistant programs available in Arizona, which can provide you with the necessary education and training to succeed in this field. Most programs take about one year to complete and include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Some of the top medical assistant programs in Arizona include:
- Arizona College – multiple locations
- Brookline College – multiple locations
- Pima Medical Institute – multiple locations
- Carrington College – multiple locations
- Mohave Community College – multiple locations
Each program has its own unique curriculum and features, so it’s important to research each program carefully to find the one that best fits your needs and career goals.
Certification for Medical Assistants in Arizona
While certification is not required in Arizona, it can improve your job prospects and earning potential. The two main certification organizations for medical assistants are the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). To become certified, you must pass an exam after completing a medical assisting program.
Job Outlook for Medical Assistants in Arizona
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assisting is a rapidly growing field. In Arizona, employment of medical assistants is projected to grow by 25% between 2019 and 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Additionally, medical assistants in Arizona earn an average annual salary of $36,500, which is slightly lower than the national average.
Conclusion
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a medical assistant in Arizona, there are many education and certification options available to you. While certification is not required, it can improve your job prospects and earning potential. With a rapidly growing job market and competitive salaries, medical assisting is a great career choice in Arizona.