Medical Assistants
Tasks Include:
- Interview patients to obtain medical information and measure their vital signs, weight, and height.
- Show patients to examination rooms and prepare them for the physician.
- Record patients' medical history, vital statistics, or information such as test results in medical records.
- Prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician.
- Collect blood, tissue, or other laboratory specimens, log the specimens, and prepare them for testing.
- Explain treatment procedures, medications, diets, or physicians' instructions to patients.
- Help physicians examine and treat patients, handing them instruments or materials or performing such tasks as giving injections or removing sutures.
- Authorize drug refills and provide prescription information to pharmacies.
- Prepare treatment rooms for patient examinations, keeping the rooms neat and clean.
- Clean and sterilize instruments and dispose of contaminated supplies.
- Schedule appointments for patients.
- Change dressings on wounds.
more »
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™; US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet28)
Projections Quick View:
Virginia: +20.8%
National: +15.8%
Education
Post-Secondary Certificate
Job Zone:
Three: Medium Preparation Needed
Income Range:
Moderately High ($36,000 - $49,999)
Median Earnings:
National
$38,270.00
State
$37,500.00
Regional
Medical Assistants
Description
Career Cluster: | Health Science |
Perform administrative and certain clinical duties under the direction of a physician. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes. Clinical duties may include taking and recording vital signs and medical histories, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood, and administering medications as directed by physician.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Education
Required Level of Education
- Post-Secondary Certificate - awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in agriculture or natural resources, computer services, personal or culinary services, engineering technologies, healthcare, construction trades, mechanic and repair technologies, or precision production) = 44.74%
- High School Diploma - or the equivalent (for example, GED) = 20.54%
- Bachelor's Degree = 17.47%
- Some College Courses = 17.20%
- Associate's Degree (or other 2-year degree) = 0.05%
Related Work Experience
- Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 40.69%
- None = 20.20%
- Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years = 17.73%
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 10.65%
- Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 9.76%
- Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years = 0.90%
- Up to and including 1 month = 0.07%
On-Site or In-Plant Training
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 48.17%
- Up to and including 1 month = 22.94%
- None = 10.31%
- Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 10.31%
- Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year = 8.26%
On-the-Job Training
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months = 65.95%
- Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months = 20.99%
- Anything beyond short demonstration, up to and including 1 month = 13.06%
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Tasks
Core Tasks Include:
- Interview patients to obtain medical information and measure their vital signs, weight, and height.
- Show patients to examination rooms and prepare them for the physician.
- Record patients' medical history, vital statistics, or information such as test results in medical records.
- Prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician.
- Collect blood, tissue, or other laboratory specimens, log the specimens, and prepare them for testing.
- Explain treatment procedures, medications, diets, or physicians' instructions to patients.
- Help physicians examine and treat patients, handing them instruments or materials or performing such tasks as giving injections or removing sutures.
- Authorize drug refills and provide prescription information to pharmacies.
- Prepare treatment rooms for patient examinations, keeping the rooms neat and clean.
- Clean and sterilize instruments and dispose of contaminated supplies.
- Schedule appointments for patients.
- Change dressings on wounds.
- Greet and log in patients arriving at office or clinic.
- Contact medical facilities or departments to schedule patients for tests or admission.
- Perform general office duties, such as answering telephones, taking dictation, or completing insurance forms.
- Inventory and order medical, lab, or office supplies or equipment.
- Perform routine laboratory tests and sample analyses.
- Set up medical laboratory equipment.
- Operate x-ray, electrocardiogram (EKG), or other equipment to administer routine diagnostic tests.
Supplemental Tasks Include:
- Keep financial records or perform other bookkeeping duties, such as handling credit or collections or mailing monthly statements to patients.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Tools and Technology
Tools Include:
- Audiometers or accessories (Audiometers)
- Steam autoclaves or sterilizers (Autoclaves)
- Mercury blood pressure units (Baumanometers)
- Binocular light compound microscopes
- Chemistry analyzers (Blood chemistry analyzers)
- Non vacuum blood collection tubes or containers (Blood collection vials)
- Alcohol analysers (Breathalyzers)
- Butterfly needles
- Canes or cane accessories (Canes)
- Cast cutters or saws (Cast cutters)
- Benchtop centrifuges (Centrifuges)
- Crutches or crutch accessories (Crutches)
- Specimen collectors (Culturettes)
- Dictation machines (Dictation equipment)
- Medical radiation films or badges (Dosimetry badges)
- Electrocardiography EKG units
- Electrosurgical or electrocautery equipment or accessories or related products (Electrocautery equipment)
- Electronic blood pressure units (Electronic blood pressure measuring devices)
- Endotracheal tubes (Endotracheal ET tubes)
- Enema kits or accessories (Enema equipment)
- Vacuum blood collection tubes or containers (Evacuated blood collection tubes)
- Phlebotomy trays or accessories (Evacuated collection tube holders/adapters)
- Flexible endoscopes or accessories or related products (Flexible sigmoidoscopy equipment)
- Gait belts for rehabilitation or therapy (Gait belts)
- Eye occluders (Handheld occluders)
- Hearing aids for the physically challenged (Hearing aids)
- Hypodermic needles (Intradermal needles)
- Hypodermic needles (Intramuscular needles)
- Combination refractor keratometers (Keratometers)
- Lancets
- Laser printers
- Ophthalmic lensometers (Lensometers)
- Mercury blood pressure units (Manual blood pressuring measurement equipment)
- Lap mayo trays or mayo stands for surgical use or accessories (Mayo stands)
- Mechanical stethoscopes or accessories (Mechanical stethoscopes)
- Opticians tools or accessories (Metric rules)
- Capillary or hematocrit tubes (Microcapillary hematocrit tubes)
- Microscope slides
- Nebulizers or accessories (Nebulizers)
- Notebook computers
- Ophthalmoscopes or otoscopes or scope sets (Opthalmoscopes)
- Ophthalmoscopes or otoscopes or scope sets (Otoscopes)
- Oxygen therapy delivery system products accessories or its supplies (Oxygen equipment)
- Medical oxygen masks or parts (Oxygen masks)
- Medical gas cylinders or related devices (Oxygen tanks)
- Personal computers
- Personal digital assistant PDAs or organizers (Personal digital assistants PDA)
- Dropping pipettes (Pipettes)
- Body plethysmographs (Plethysmographs)
- Bedside pulmonary function screeners (Pulmonary function measurement equipment)
- Nebulizers or accessories (Pulmonary nebulizers)
- Ophthalmic retinoscopes (Retinoscopes)
- Scanners
- Blood collection needles (Single draw needles)
- Eye charts or vision cards (Snellen eye charts)
- Spirometers or its accessories or its supplies (Spirometers)
- Orthopedic splint systems (Splints)
- Medical staple or clip removers (Staple removers)
- Hypodermic needles (Subcutaneous hypodermic needles)
- Medical suction or vacuum appliances (Suction machines)
- Suction tube or tubing (Suction tubing)
- Suture removers
- Medical syringes with needles (Syringe needles)
- Medical syringes without needles (Syringes)
- Tablet computers
- Ophthalmic tonometers or accessories (Tonometers)
- Tourniquets
- Tuberculin syringes (Tuberculin TB skin test equipment)
- Spirometers or its accessories or its supplies (Vitalors)
- Walkers or rollators (Walkers)
- Wheelchairs
- Medical imaging wet darkroom or daylight processors (X ray development equipment)
- Medical x ray units for general diagnostic use (X ray machines)
Technologies Include:
- Accounting software
- Billing software
- Bookkeeping software
- Calendar and scheduling software
- Appointment scheduling software
- Categorization or classification software
- Diagnostic and procedural coding software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Database software
- Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Exchange
- Internet browser software
- Web browser software
- Medical software
- Patient management software
- Visual electro diagnostic software
- Network conferencing software
- Microsoft Office SharePoint Server MOSS
- Office suite software
- Business software applications
- Microsoft Office software
- Operating system software
- Microsoft Windows Vista Business
- Microsoft Windows XP Professional
- Spreadsheet software
- Spreadsheet software
- Word processing software
- Word processing software
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Special Requirements
Medical assistants generally do not need to be licensed although certification is available through the American Association of Medical Assistants by taking the CMA exam.
Required Fees:
AAMA members and CAAHEP/ABHES graduating students and recent graduates pay a $125 candidate fee. All others pay $250.
For More Information, Contact:
American Association Of Medical Assistants
20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 1575
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: 312.899.1500
http://aama-ntl.org/
The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Additional Resources
Information about career opportunities, CAAHEP-accredited educational programs in medical assisting, and the Certified Medical Assistant exam is available from:
The American Association of Medical Assistants
20 North Wacker Dr.
Suite 1575
Chicago, IL 60606
http://www.aama-ntl.org
Information about career opportunities and the Registered Medical Assistant certification exam is available from:
Registered Medical Assistants of American Medical Technologists
710 Higgins Rd.
Park Ridge, IL 60068-5765
http://www.amt1.com/
For a list of ABHES-accredited educational programs in medical assisting, contact:
Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
803 West Broad St.
Suite 730
Falls Church, VA 22046
http://www.abhes.org
Information about career opportunities, training programs, and the Certified Ophthalmic Assistant exam is available from:
Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology
2025 Woodlane Dr.
St. Paul, MN 55125-2995
http://www.jcahpo.org
Information about careers for podiatric assistants is available from:
American Society of Podiatric Medical Assistants
2l24 S. Austin Blvd.
Cicero, IL 60650
The data sources for the information displayed here include: Virginia Career VIEW Research. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Knowledge
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
95.00 | English Language | Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. |
88.25 | Customer and Personal Service | Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. |
83.25 | Medicine and Dentistry | Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures. |
77.75 | Administrative | Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology. |
69.75 | Computers and Electronics | Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming. |
62.50 | Education and Training | Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. |
54.75 | Public Safety and Security | Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions. |
51.00 | Therapy and Counseling | Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Skills
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
75.00 | Social Perceptiveness | Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do. |
72.00 | Active Listening | Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. |
72.00 | Speaking | Talking to others to convey information effectively. |
68.75 | Reading Comprehension | Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents. |
65.50 | Critical Thinking | Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems. |
62.50 | Monitoring | Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action. |
62.50 | Coordination | Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions. |
62.50 | Service Orientation | Actively looking for ways to help people. |
59.50 | Writing | Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience. |
56.25 | Active Learning | Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making. |
53.00 | Learning Strategies | Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things. |
53.00 | Instructing | Teaching others how to do something. |
50.00 | Complex Problem Solving | Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions. |
50.00 | Judgment and Decision Making | Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one. |
50.00 | Time Management | Managing one's own time and the time of others. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Abilities
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
75.00 | Oral Comprehension | The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. |
75.00 | Written Comprehension | The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. |
75.00 | Oral Expression | The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. |
72.00 | Problem Sensitivity | The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem. |
72.00 | Speech Recognition | The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. |
72.00 | Near Vision | The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer). |
68.75 | Written Expression | The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. |
68.75 | Speech Clarity | The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. |
62.50 | Deductive Reasoning | The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense. |
56.25 | Inductive Reasoning | The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events). |
56.25 | Information Ordering | The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations). |
53.00 | Category Flexibility | The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways. |
53.00 | Flexibility of Closure | The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material. |
50.00 | Perceptual Speed | The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object. |
50.00 | Arm-Hand Steadiness | The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position. |
50.00 | Finger Dexterity | The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Work Activities
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
97.25 | Getting Information | Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. |
92.00 | Working with Computers | Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. |
91.25 | Documenting/Recording Information | Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form. |
89.75 | Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge | Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job. |
89.50 | Assisting and Caring for Others | Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients. |
86.50 | Processing Information | Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. |
85.75 | Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events | Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events. |
85.75 | Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates | Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. |
85.00 | Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials | Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects. |
82.75 | Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work | Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. |
82.00 | Making Decisions and Solving Problems | Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. |
81.00 | Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards | Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards. |
76.75 | Performing Administrative Activities | Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork. |
76.50 | Analyzing Data or Information | Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts. |
72.25 | Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People | Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people. |
71.25 | Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings | Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems. |
70.00 | Developing Objectives and Strategies | Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them. |
67.50 | Training and Teaching Others | Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others. |
65.25 | Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information | Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity. |
65.00 | Performing for or Working Directly with the Public | Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests. |
64.50 | Scheduling Work and Activities | Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others. |
64.50 | Communicating with People Outside the Organization | Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail. |
63.75 | Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others | Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used. |
62.00 | Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships | Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. |
59.25 | Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates | Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance. |
59.25 | Providing Consultation and Advice to Others | Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics. |
58.75 | Thinking Creatively | Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions. |
58.25 | Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others | Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others. |
58.00 | Performing General Physical Activities | Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials. |
54.25 | Monitoring and Controlling Resources | Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money. |
53.75 | Coaching and Developing Others | Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills. |
51.50 | Handling and Moving Objects | Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things. |
51.25 | Controlling Machines and Processes | Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles). |
50.00 | Developing and Building Teams | Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members. |
49.75 | Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment | Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles. |
49.75 | Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment | Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Work Styles
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
94.50 | Integrity | Job requires being honest and ethical. |
94.25 | Attention to Detail | Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks. |
92.50 | Dependability | Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations. |
90.75 | Concern for Others | Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job. |
88.25 | Stress Tolerance | Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations. |
88.25 | Adaptability/Flexibility | Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace. |
87.50 | Cooperation | Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude. |
85.75 | Independence | Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done. |
79.75 | Self-Control | Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations. |
79.50 | Initiative | Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges. |
76.75 | Persistence | Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles. |
74.75 | Social Orientation | Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job. |
71.00 | Achievement/Effort | Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks. |
66.25 | Leadership | Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction. |
65.25 | Innovation | Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems. |
63.75 | Analytical Thinking | Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Work Values
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
77.83 | Relationships | Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service. |
77.83 | Support | Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical. |
61.17 | Achievement | Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement. |
52.83 | Working Conditions | Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions. |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Work Context
% | Subject | Description |
---|---|---|
100.00 | Contact With Others | How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it? |
93.60 | Exposed to Disease or Infections | How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections? |
92.80 | Indoors, Environmentally Controlled | How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions? |
92.40 | Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets | How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets? |
89.20 | Work With Work Group or Team | How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job? |
87.60 | Importance of Being Exact or Accurate | How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job? |
87.40 | Telephone | How often do you have telephone conversations in this job? |
86.40 | Physical Proximity | To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people? |
85.40 | Face-to-Face Discussions | How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job? |
84.80 | Letters and Memos | How often does the job require written letters and memos? |
80.80 | Importance of Repeating Same Tasks | How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job? |
80.00 | Deal With External Customers | How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job? |
80.00 | Consequence of Error | How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable? |
79.40 | Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People | How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements? |
77.00 | Frequency of Decision Making | How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization? |
76.00 | Time Pressure | How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines? |
73.60 | Structured versus Unstructured Work | To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals? |
72.60 | Responsible for Others' Health and Safety | How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job? |
72.20 | Coordinate or Lead Others | How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job? |
71.00 | Electronic Mail | How often do you use electronic mail in this job? |
70.00 | Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results | What results do your decisions usually have on other people or the image or reputation or financial resources of your employer? |
66.20 | Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions | How much does this job require making repetitive motions? |
64.40 | Freedom to Make Decisions | How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer? |
63.80 | Frequency of Conflict Situations | How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job? |
62.00 | Spend Time Sitting | How much does this job require sitting? |
61.80 | Responsibility for Outcomes and Results | How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers? |
58.80 | Spend Time Standing | How much does this job require standing? |
58.60 | Spend Time Walking and Running | How much does this job require walking and running? |
55.80 | Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable | How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable? |
53.40 | Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings | How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings? |
50.20 | Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls | How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls? |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
- Overall Experience
- Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
- Job Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
- Examples
- These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
- Education
- Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Earnings Benefits*
Region | Entry Level | Median | Experienced |
---|---|---|---|
United States | $30,390.00 | $38,270.00 | $45,360.00 |
Virginia | $30,280.00 | $37,500.00 | $44,230.00 |
Region | Entry Level | Median | Experienced |
Alexandria/Arlington | $36,614.68 | $47,163.96 | $52,500.80 |
Bay Consortium | $34,947.57 | $40,167.34 | $47,211.00 |
Capital Region Workforce Partnership | $32,892.69 | $38,732.27 | $41,895.07 |
Central VA/Region2000 | $30,371.65 | $36,800.73 | $39,116.91 |
Crater Area | $32,655.43 | $38,667.47 | $41,769.65 |
Greater Peninsula | $33,301.37 | $39,009.25 | $41,112.21 |
Hampton Roads | $33,187.44 | $38,934.00 | $41,878.35 |
New River/Mt. Rogers | $29,787.38 | $36,426.54 | $38,373.76 |
Northern Virginia | $36,464.17 | $43,603.99 | $51,367.79 |
Piedmont Workforce | $33,554.31 | $39,848.55 | $44,869.73 |
Shenandoah Valley | No Data | No Data | No Data |
South Central | $30,901.57 | $37,066.21 | $39,302.95 |
Southwestern Virginia | $27,699.06 | $32,847.75 | $37,483.25 |
West Piedmont | $29,204.16 | $36,045.04 | $38,500.24 |
Western Virginia | $31,288.30 | $37,225.08 | $39,874.68 |
* Earnings Calculations:
Regional Earnings:
Entry = Annual mean of the lower 1/3 wage distribution;
Experienced = Annual mean of the upper 2/3 wage distribution.
National and State Earnings:
Entry = Annual 10th percentile wage;
Experienced = Annual 75th percentile wage.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Employment Projections
Current | Projected | % Change | |
---|---|---|---|
United States | 743,500 | 861,300 | +15.8% |
Virginia | 14,477 | 17,483 | +20.8% |
Region | Current* | Projected | % Change |
Alexandria/Arlington | 405 | 497 | +22.7% |
Bay Consortium | 523 | 635 | +21.4% |
Capital Region Workforce Partnership | 2,184 | 2,702 | +23.7% |
Central VA/Region2000 | 606 | 646 | +6.6% |
Crater Area | 267 | 307 | +15.0% |
Greater Peninsula | 787 | 927 | +17.8% |
Hampton Roads | 2,525 | 2,963 | +17.3% |
New River/Mt. Rogers | 447 | 501 | +12.1% |
Northern Virginia | 4,151 | 5,204 | +25.4% |
Piedmont Workforce | 716 | 841 | +17.5% |
Shenandoah Valley | 804 | 969 | +20.5% |
South Central | No Data | No Data | No Data |
Southwestern Virginia | 181 | 176 | -2.8% |
West Piedmont | 170 | 184 | +8.2% |
Western Virginia | 1,020 | 1,100 | +7.8% |
The data sources for the information displayed here include: US Department of Labor (BLS); Virginia Workforce Connection. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Related Occupations
Related Occupations
The related occupations here have similar general capabilities and interests; career explorers may also be interested in the related occupations:- Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
- Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
- Surgical Assistants
- Physical Therapist Aides
- Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
- Registered Nurses
- Medical Records Specialists
- Ophthalmic Medical Technologists
- Dental Assistants
- Nursing Assistants
- Emergency Medicine Physicians
- Pediatric Surgeons
- Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric
- Cardiologists
- Physician Assistants
- Family Medicine Physicians
- General Internal Medicine Physicians
- Nurse Practitioners
- Dermatologists
- Physical Therapist Assistants
Careers in Therapeutic Services Pathway:
- Acupuncturists
- Acute Care Nurses
- Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses
- Allergists and Immunologists
- Anesthesiologist Assistants
- Anesthesiologists
- Art Therapists
- Athletic Trainers
- Audiologists
- Cardiologists
- Chiropractors
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Critical Care Nurses
- Dental Assistants
- Dental Hygienists
- Dentists, All Other Specialists
- Dentists, General
- Dermatologists
- Dietetic Technicians
- Dietitians and Nutritionists
- Emergency Medicine Physicians
- Exercise Physiologists
- Family Medicine Physicians
- General Internal Medicine Physicians
- Genetic Counselors
- Healthcare Diagnosing or Treating Practitioners, All Other
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Workers, All Other
- Hearing Aid Specialists
- Home Health Aides
- Hospitalists
- Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
- Low Vision Therapists, Orientation and Mobility Specialists, and Vision Rehabilitation Therapists
- Medical Assistants
- Midwives
- Music Therapists
- Naturopathic Physicians
- Neurologists
- Nurse Anesthetists
- Nurse Midwives
- Nurse Practitioners
- Nursing Assistants
- Obstetricians and Gynecologists
- Occupational Therapists
- Occupational Therapy Aides
- Occupational Therapy Assistants
- Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
- Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric
- Opticians, Dispensing
- Optometrists
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
- Orthodontists
- Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric
- Orthoptists
- Orthotists and Prosthetists
- Pediatric Surgeons
- Pediatricians, General
- Pharmacists
- Pharmacy Technicians
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Physicians
- Physical Therapist Aides
- Physical Therapist Assistants
- Physical Therapists
- Physician Assistants
- Physicians, All Other
- Physicians, Pathologists
- Podiatrists
- Preventive Medicine Physicians
- Prosthodontists
- Psychiatric Aides
- Psychiatric Technicians
- Psychiatrists
- Radiation Therapists
- Radiologists
- Recreational Therapists
- Registered Nurses
- Respiratory Therapists
- Speech-Language Pathologists
- Sports Medicine Physicians
- Surgeons, All Other
- Surgical Technologists
- Therapists, All Other
- Urologists
- Veterinarians
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
View Videos
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CareerOneStop Health Science Videos
Overview
Occupations
The data sources for the information displayed here include: New York State Department of Labor; New Jersey Department of Labor; California Occupational Information Coordinating Committee; CareerOneStop. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Military Training
The following military job classifications are available for this occupation:
- Biomedical Laboratory Services
- Medical Care and Treatment, General
- Not Occupationally Qualified, General
- Operating Room Services
- Physiology
- Undersea/Aviation Medicine
- Aerospace Medical Service
- Health Care Specialist
- Hospital Corpsman
The data sources for the information displayed here include: Defense Manpower Data Center. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Proficiency Ratings
These proficiencies are scored on a scale from 1 to 5 with 1 being not
important to the job and 5 being extremely important to the job.
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Titles
- Autopsy Assistant
- Certifed Medical Assistant (CMA)
- Certified Coding Specialist
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
- Certified Ophthalmic Technician (COT)
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician
- Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
- Chiropractic Assistant
- Chiropractor Assistant
- Clinic Assistant
- Clinical Assistant
- Clinical Medical Assistant
- Clinical Office Technician
- Doctor Assistant
- Doctor's Assistant
- Eye Technician
- Health Information Coder
- Health Services Information Specialist
- Health Unit Clerk
- Hemodialysis Patient Care Specialist
- Hospital Clinic Assistant
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Billing Coder
- Medical Billing Specialist
- Medical Department Secretary
- Medical Insurance Coding Specialist
- Medical Office Assistant
- Medical Office Technician
- Medical Office Worker
- Morgue Attendant
- Morgue Technician
- Ocular Care Aide
- Ophthalmic Aide
- Ophthalmic Assistant
- Ophthalmic Technician
- Optometric Aide
- Optometric Assistant
- Optometric Technician
- Optometrist Assistant
- Optometry Assistant
- Orthopedic Assistant
- Orthopedic Cast Specialist
- Outpatient Surgery Assistant
- Phlebotomist
- Physician's Aide
- Podiatric Aide
- Podiatric Assistant
- Podiatrist Assistant
- Registered Medical Assistant
- Respiratory Therapist Assistant
- Sleep Technician
- Sterile Processing Technician
- Surgery Scheduler
- Vein Access Technician
- Visual Training Aide
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)
Medical Assistants
Related Schools
- American National University
- Bryant & Stratton College-Virginia Beach
- Eastern Shore Community College
- Eastern Virginia Career College
- ECPI University
- Fortis College-Norfolk
- Fortis College-Richmond
- Stratford University
- Tidewater Community College
The data sources for the information displayed here include: O*NET™. (Using onet28)