Medical Assistant Programs in Indiana
The first step toward becoming a qualified medical assistant in Indiana is to earn a certificate, diploma or associate degree. Certification as a medical assistant is not required in most states in the country. However, becoming a certified medical assistant (CMA) is increasingly becoming a necessity as more and more employers seek candidates who have trained and passed the certification exam.
Choosing A Medical Assistant Program in Indiana
Finding the medical assistant program best suited to you is the first step. The medical assistant program in Indiana should be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) if you plan on becoming a certified medical assistant. It usually takes just under a year to complete a medical assistant program and just over a year and a half if you take your vocational training a step further and earn an associate degree in medical assisting. A medical assistant’s duties can vary based on experience and employer, but a medical assistant program usually covers basic clinical training as well as administrative training. There are many skills to learn in order to help the medical office or hospital run smoothly. Medical assistant programs will train you in how to conduct some technical procedures, such as taking vital signs and taking blood and other patient assessments. Students learn about human anatomy, pharmacology, and medical terminology. You will also likely learn procedures for dealing with insurance companies, patients, as well as learning about billing practices and record keeping. After the training program is completed, it is beneficial to take and pass the certification. Many employers do favor medical assistants holding professional certification. This is given by the Certifying Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants, and it is what most potential employers will be looking for. You will find yourself more competitive for the most desirable and higher paying medical assistant jobs in Indiana.
The mean salary for a medical assistant in Indiana is about $25,000, with the top earning 10% earning over $31,000. Benefits are usually good as well. The outlook for medical assistants is very good, as the healthcare industry in general is growing at a rapid pace to meet the needs of a growing aging population. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects medical assistant jobs to grow 35% (from 2006 through to 2016). In less than a year you can be ready for a rewarding career as a medical assistant, pursuing the many opportunities in clinics, doctors’ offices, or emergency care centers in Indiana.
Check out the Medical Billing and Coding programs in Indiana. Medical Billing and Coding is another popular area of study for those looking for opportunities in the allied health field.
(Sources: Indiana Society of Medical Assistants, American Society of Medical Assistants)
