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How to become a Medical Assistant

To work as a medical assistant you either need on-the-job training or medical assistant training course. Many states don't require a medical assistant to be qualified, but training will be helpful when applying for jobs.

A great medical assistant is a highly organized person who has good communication skills, especially listening skills in order to understand and correct record patient information. Medical assistants need a good working knowledge of medical terminology, basic procedures and anatomy. Administrative tasks require a medical assistant to be skillful and comfortable at using a computer. Patients often choose their doctor based on the quality of service and care, so treating patients with respect and kindness is a vital skill.

How to become: Certified Medical Assistant · Clinical Assistant · Medical Office Assistant · Back Office Medical Assistant · Medical Receptionist
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Typical qualifications for a Medical Assistant

10/11
Your Indeed Profile has 10 of the 11 qualifications typically needed to be a Medical Assistant.
Indeed users who have worked as a Medical Assistant typically have these qualifications.
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Certificates and licenses

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Note this is provided for informational purposes only. Adding qualifications does not guarantee a job interview, opportunity, or an offer.
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Medical Assistant jobs in United States

Medical Assistant
WHA
Carmel, IN
$19 - $21 an hour
Full-time
View job details
45 minutes ago
Medical Assistant/Certified Medical Assistant - Full Time
Hills & Dales General Hospital3.8
Cass City, MI
Full-time
22 hours ago
Part Time Medical Assistant
Dermatologists of Central States3.4
Clarkston, MI
Part-time
22 hours ago
Medical Assistant
Eventus WholeHealth2
Durham, NC
Full-time
22 hours ago
Medical Assistant
Specialist
Tampa, FL
$15 - $18 an hour
Full-time
1 hour ago
View all Medical Assistant jobs

Career progression for Medical Assistant

Education levels for Medical Assistants

Based on the requirements of Medical Assistant job openings on Indeed in the United States within the last three years.
required level of educationpercent of job openings
High school diploma or GED60.5%
Associate's degree25.8%
Bachelor's degree11.1%
Master's degree1.9%
Doctoral degree0.6%
Middle school education0.1%
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Expected salary by experience

Based on resume data from Indeed users who reported working as a Medical Assistant in the United States within the last three years.
Years of experienceAnnual salary in USD
0 - 4$26,600
4 - 8$28,600
8 - 12$29,900
12 - 16$30,700
16 - 20$31,100
20 - 24$31,000
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Common questions about career advices for a Medical Assistant

How fast can you become a medical assistant?

Medical assistant courses vary from a total of five days to two years. Programs that only take a few months or less will provide you with a certificate, whereas the courses that take roughly two years to complete allow you to earn an associate’s degree. Depending on your preference, you can choose the right medical assisting course to pursue.

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What are the strengths of a medical assistant?

The following are considered to be the strengths of a medical assistant:

  • Communication skills
  • Outgoing
  • Good listener
  • Compassionate
  • Nonjudgmental
  • Self-controlled
  • Organized
  • Adaptable
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Is it hard to become a medical assistant?

Medical assistants need to work hard to earn their certifications, which require additional learning and a test. This makes it somewhat hard to become a medical assistant but should not be a problem for those who study and are fully prepared.

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Is it possible to take a medical assistant exam without going back to school?

Is it possible to pursue a medical assistant degree online?

What qualities make a good medical assistant?

What skills should a medical assistant have?

Can a medical assistant work without being American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) certified?

Is it possible to become a doctor after being a medical assistant?

Is being a medical assistant a good career?

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