In times where unemployment rates are high across the nation and mothers and fathers are struggling to support their families more than ever, there are still stable and available jobs that are growing and thriving. The medical assistant position is one of these jobs. Medical assistants have a wide range of skills and responsibilities, making them key players in the nation’s healthcare system. They are employed in hospitals, physical therapy offices, physician’s practices, insurance carriers, research facilities, universities, and personal care practices. Their responsibilities are vast, ranging from administrative duties to minor nursing duties.
The nation as a whole is expecting to see higher than average growth rate among the medical assistant profession with 29% growth expected by 2022. This growth is caused by baby boomers aging and requiring more care, the Affordable Care Act enabling easier access to healthcare, and the streamlining of tasks and responsibilities to medical assistants, making them even more important to the industry. At about $25,000 per year, medical assistants in South Dakota earn a lower salary than the average medical assistant, but this can be attributed to the fact that South Dakota’s cost of living is lower than that of many other states.
South Dakota has many medical assistant openings in rural areas and suburbs, so pursuing this profession could result in automatic placement and an immediate paycheck. There are many medical assistant programs in South Dakota that are accredited by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). These programs will teach students the knowledge and content essential to becoming a medical assistant, such as: anatomy, first aid, physiology, medical terminology, light bookkeeping, how to use medical software, how to take patients’ vitals, and how to handle lab work.
South Dakota values furthering the education of its citizens, offering many scholarships, such as the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship, the ACMPE scholarships, and the Dakota Corps Scholarship Program. It is easier and less risky than ever for candidates to earn an education to become a medical assistant.
If you are looking for a fulfilling job with the potential for growth and development, the medical assistant profession is a great place to start. The position will teach you vital information about the healthcare industry and prepare you for a stable career. South Dakota has many scholarship programs to financially assist your pursuit of education, and there are many jobs available for those who complete certified medical assistant programs in the state.
More Information about Medical Assisting Programs in South Dakota
Medical Assistant Education in South Dakota: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the medical field, becoming a medical assistant could be a great option. Medical assistants are an essential part of any healthcare team, helping physicians and other healthcare professionals with administrative and clinical tasks. If you’re located in South Dakota, there are several educational programs that can prepare you for a successful career as a medical assistant.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at medical assistant education in South Dakota, including the requirements, programs, and job outlook.
Requirements for Becoming a Medical Assistant in South Dakota
In South Dakota, there are no formal educational requirements for becoming a medical assistant. However, most employers prefer to hire candidates who have completed a medical assisting program and earned a certification. Additionally, some employers may require medical assistants to have a certain amount of work experience in the field.
While not required, earning a certification can make you a more competitive candidate for job openings. The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) is the most widely recognized certification for medical assistants. To be eligible to take the CMA exam, you must have graduated from a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Medical Assistant Programs in South Dakota
If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant in South Dakota, you can choose from several educational programs. Here are some options to consider:
Lake Area Technical Institute: Located in Watertown, Lake Area Technical Institute offers a Medical Assistant program that includes coursework in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, clinical procedures, and more. The program also includes a clinical externship, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting.
Kilian Community College: Kilian Community College, located in Sioux Falls, offers a Medical Assistant diploma program that can be completed in just 10 months. The program includes coursework in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical law and ethics, and more.
Southeast Technical Institute: Southeast Technical Institute, also located in Sioux Falls, offers a Medical Assistant program that includes both classroom instruction and a clinical externship. Students will learn skills such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical billing and coding, and more.
Job Outlook for Medical Assistants in South Dakota
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical assistant employment is expected to grow by 19% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. In South Dakota, medical assistants earned a mean annual wage of $34,450 in 2020, slightly lower than the national average of $36,930.
Medical assistants can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, physician offices, and outpatient care centers. Some of the top employers of medical assistants in South Dakota include Sanford Health, Avera Health, and Monument Health.
Conclusion
Becoming a medical assistant can be a rewarding career path for those interested in the healthcare field. While not required, completing a medical assisting program and earning a certification can make you a more competitive candidate for job openings. South Dakota offers several educational programs for aspiring medical assistants, including those at Lake Area Technical Institute, Kilian Community College, and Southeast Technical Institute. With a favorable job outlook and competitive salaries, medical assisting is a promising career in South Dakota.