The state of California employs more medical assistants than any other state in the country, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics 2013 data. The state currently has more than 82,000 medical assistants, but this number is expected to continue to rise steadily over the next six years. This demand is spread evenly throughout the entire state, so no matter where you live there will be plenty of jobs for medical assistants available.
Medical assistants in California are not required to obtain a medical certification in order to get a job. However, a medical assistant certification can improve your ability to obtain the job you want and one that offers a higher paying salary. In addition, some employers will not hire medical assistants without this certification because their malpractice insurance will not cover them. Before you can obtain your certification, you must first complete one of the several medical assistant programs in California.
You will be able to find both traditional classroom and online medical assistant programs in California. Online training programs are typically chosen by students who need a school with a flexible schedule that will allow them to continue working while completing their training. When signing up for medical assistant programs in California is it important to realize that you will likely need to complete hands-on clinical training, in addition to your online studies. You should always check to see if the online school works with a medical facility in your locality before selecting the right school for you.
You also need to look for California medical assistant schools that have been accredited by the Department of Education, Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), or Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Completion of an accredited program is a requirement to taking the medical assistant certification examination in order to earn your certification.
This training will provide you with the skills you need to either work in the administrative offices of a medical facility or to assist a physician with patient care. Your certification will allow you to perform various duties in the health care industry, including medical billing and coding, updating patient files, greeting patients, assisting the physician with patient examinations, drawing blood, and performing other lab tests.
Once you have completed your education and received your certification, you will be able to earn a good paying job as a medical assistant. The Bureau of Labor Statistics 2013 report showed that medical assistants in California earn an average of $34,050 per year. In addition, these jobs often offer full-time hours with full benefits.
More Information about Medical Assisting Programs in California
Medical Assistant Education in California: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re considering a career as a medical assistant in California, it’s important to understand the education and training requirements necessary to enter this field. In this guide, we’ll explore the different educational paths available to aspiring medical assistants in California, including certification programs, associate degree programs, and online courses.
Certification Programs
One of the most popular options for becoming a medical assistant in California is to complete a certification program. These programs typically last between 9 and 12 months and provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in a medical office or clinic. Some of the most reputable certification programs for medical assistants in California include:
- American Career College
- Kaplan College
- Carrington College
- Everest College
- San Joaquin Valley College
Associate Degree Programs
Another option for those interested in a career as a medical assistant is to pursue an associate degree program. These programs typically take 2 years to complete and offer more in-depth training and education than certification programs. In addition to the 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 California include:
- Foothill College
- Los Angeles City College
- City College of San Francisco
- San Diego Mesa College
- College of the Canyons
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. These courses can range from individual classes to full certificate or degree programs. Some reputable online medical assistant programs available in California include:
- Ashworth College
- Penn Foster Career School
- Southern California University of Health Sciences
- Keiser University
Requirements for Becoming a Medical Assistant in California
In addition to completing an education program, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to become a medical assistant in California. 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)
It’s important to note that certification is not required by law in California, but many employers prefer to hire certified medical assistants. Additionally, obtaining certification can increase job opportunities and earning potential.
Job Outlook for Medical Assistants in California
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of medical assistants in California is projected to grow 17% 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
Becoming a medical assistant in California can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. With a variety of education options available, it’s important to research and choose 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 rapidly growing field.