Careers in the medical assistant profession offer a great opportunity for entering the health care industry. These careers are currently in high demand as the baby boomers head into their aging years and health care becomes more accessible. In 2013, there were more than 2,200 medical assistants working throughout the state of Idaho, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistic’s data.
While there is already a huge demand for medical assistant, the experts are excepting this demand to continue to steadily increase for at least the next six years. Medical assistants in Idaho also receive a fairly good wage. The average income is slightly under the national average, but medical assistants can expect to earn an average of $29,870 per year, according to data collected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics by 2013.
In the state of Idaho, medical assistants are able to perform a variety of administrative and clinical duties, such as drawing blood, assisting with patient examination, updating medical records, performing medical billing and coding, and taking vital signs. You are not required to complete any type of training or obtain your certificate in order to work as a medical assistant in Idaho. However, many employers will only hire those who are trained, or pay them more if they have a certification.
This makes going to one of Idaho’s medical assistant schools a good place to start the process of becoming a medical assistant. When searching through the various medical assistant programs in Idaho, you only want to look at programs that are accredited. This accreditation should come from the Department of Education, Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, or Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.
Completion of an accredited program is required in order to get your medical assistant certification. There are several Idaho medical assistant schools that offer accredited programs. Some of these must be completed on campus. However, there are many schools that offer online medical assistant programs. This will allow you to continue working and complete your coursework at a time the fits into your schedule. You may need to complete some clinical hands-on training at a medical facility in your locality.
Once your training is complete, you can take the examination to earn your certification. This will then allow you to find one of the better paying medical assistant jobs in Idaho. With the strong demand for these jobs, you should have no problem finding a good job in your area.
More Information about Medical Assisting Programs in Idaho
Medical Assistant Education in Idaho: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re considering becoming a medical assistant in Idaho, it’s important to understand the education and training requirements necessary to meet the state’s regulations. Medical assistants play a critical role in the healthcare industry, and Idaho has a growing demand for qualified professionals in this field. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about medical assistant education in Idaho, including the requirements, certification, and career outlook.
Medical Assistant Education Requirements in Idaho
In Idaho, medical assistants are not required to have a license, but it is recommended to complete a formal training program from an accredited institution. Medical assistant programs typically last between 9 to 12 months and can be taken at vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes. Some programs offer online or hybrid options, which can be convenient for students who work full-time or have other obligations.
The curriculum of a medical assistant program will cover both clinical and administrative aspects of the job. Clinical training includes anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, phlebotomy, medical terminology, and basic patient care. Administrative training includes medical office procedures, medical billing and coding, and electronic health records. Additionally, students may participate in an externship to gain hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
Certification for Medical Assistants in Idaho
While medical assistant certification is not required in Idaho, it can enhance job prospects and increase earning potential. Two organizations offer certification for medical assistants: the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). To be eligible for certification, candidates must graduate from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program.
The AAMA certification exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering clinical and administrative knowledge. The NHA certification exam also covers clinical and administrative knowledge and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. Both exams require a passing score of 70% or higher.
Career Outlook for Medical Assistants in Idaho
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. In Idaho, medical assistants can expect to earn an average salary of $35,670 per year, slightly above the national average. Medical assistants may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a medical assistant in Idaho, it’s recommended to complete a formal training program from an accredited institution. Certification is not required, but it can enhance job prospects and increase earning potential. With the healthcare industry growing in Idaho, the demand for medical assistants is on the rise. If you’re passionate about helping others and are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, becoming a medical assistant may be the right path for you.