Working in healthcare is a rewarding profession, one people look forward to from the time they’re children. There are many different opportunities for individuals to make a career in healthcare, ranging in education requirements and skill level. The medical assistant career path is a viable option for those who want to be involved in healthcare but do not necessarily wish to become doctors or nurses.
In the state of Illinois, more medical assistants are employed than over half of the rest of the country. In fact, Chicago employs almost 12,000 medical assistants alone, which is the fourth highest employment quantity for any city in the country. The average pay for medical assistants in Illinois, $15.02 per hour, it is higher than the national average pay of $14.80. Champaign, Illinois also boasts the highest pay of any city in the country at $23.52, almost a full ten dollars above the national average. These impressive compensation amounts, and the availability of medical assistant positions in the state, make Illinois a great place to get started on your journey to establishing a healthcare career.
Some businesses will accept candidates who have only received a high school diploma or equivalent, but many will not. Even if you do find a company willing to hire someone with no further education, it is still recommended that you pursue a medical assistant program so you are not negatively affected later when you try to find a new medical assistant job or move to another state.
There are many great program options in Illinois for candidates to pursue, both online and traditional establishments can provide an accredited degree. Be sure to check with the American Association of Medical Assistants to verify that the school you are interested in has been accredited in your state. The standard medical assistant program consists of core courses including: first aid, anatomy, physiology, lab work, medical terminology, and patient handling.
In addition to medical assistant programs, many businesses also require candidates to have a Medical Assistant Certification (CMA), which ensures employers that you have demonstrated proficiency in clinical and administrative responsibilities with regard to operating a medical office.
If you are considering joining the healthcare community, the medical assistant position might be perfect for you. Challenge yourself by becoming familiar with the medical process and secure a job that is stable and pays well. Illinois is a great place to start your journey to self-improvement.
More Information about Medical Assisting Programs in Illinois
Medical Assistant Education in Illinois: Everything You Need to Know
Medical assistants play a critical role in the healthcare industry, and Illinois has a growing demand for qualified professionals in this field. If you’re considering becoming a medical assistant in Illinois, it’s important to understand the education and training requirements necessary to meet the state’s regulations. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about medical assistant education in Illinois, including the requirements, certification, and career outlook.
Medical Assistant Education Requirements in Illinois
In Illinois, 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 Illinois
While medical assistant certification is not required in Illinois, 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 Illinois
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 Illinois, medical assistants can expect to earn an average salary of $38,590 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 Illinois, 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 Illinois, 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.