The Healthcare Industry Needs Medical Assistants – Here Are 5 Reasons to Become One

Medical assistants are responsible for helping facilitate patient care under the direction and supervision of a physician. These professionals work in a variety of healthcare settings ranging from regional hospitals to smaller private clinics and even ambulances. Although medical assistants play a similar role to nurses, they require different educational credentials. Generally,this sector of healthcare is largely overlooked by students who are initially choosing their career path. 

In recent years, the number of students enrolling in medical assistant courses hasn’t been enough to match the upcoming demand in the field. With that said, here are five reasons why you may want to consider becoming a medical assistant.

1. Quick and Easy Educational Process

Perhaps the most noteworthy benefit of pursuing a career as a medical assistant is the quick and easy coursework involved. You can earn your Medical Assisting Diploma in just one year and be working as a professional just a few weeks after that. Plus, you can use directories to compare course providers and select the best medical assistant education for your needs. 

2. Job Openings in Every Region

Another notable advantage of being a medical assistant is the fact that you can move just about anywhere and still find a job due to the number of facilities and employers that are hiring.From the Philippines to the U.S., hospitals, clinics, and private doctors’ offices need medical assistants, and with so many openings available worldwide, you always have the option of relocating if you get tired of your current hometown. 

3. Guaranteed Employment Due to Medical Assistant Shortage

Numerous reports have indicated that there’s currently a significant shortage of medical assistants and other healthcare professionals, and with demand expected to increase in the near future, the shortage is only expected to worsen. 

4. Consistent and Predictable Scheduling

One of the downsides of being a nurse or doctor is that you often have to work long, unpredictable hours, and you may find yourself being called into work without notice. Most medical assistants don’t have to deal with this problem because in general, their schedules are fairly consistent, especially if you work for a clinic instead of a hospital. Of course, if you’d rather maximize your hours then you still have the option of doing so by working at a hospital or other facility that is need of full-time, on-call help. 

5. A Fast Gateway into the Medical Field 

Finally, becoming a medical assistant is one of the fastest ways to start working in the healthcare industry and amassing experience that will look good on your resume if and when you decide to advance your career. You can use your experience to decide how you want to proceed, and if you decide to become a nurse or doctor at a later date, you’ll already have a good report with employers.

An Ambulance of Career Options Later On

In closing, becoming a medical assistant gives you a chance to experience the inner workings of hospitals and clinics first-hand. During your time as a medical assistant, you can witness the duties and responsibilities of a wide variety of other healthcare positions to get a better idea of how you want to advance your own career.