Careers As A Registered Medical Assistant?
Registered Medical Assistants (RMAs) play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, providing valuable support to healthcare professionals and ensuring the efficient functioning of medical facilities. The career of an RMA offers numerous opportunities for growth and advancement, with promising job prospects and fulfilling responsibilities.
Job Responsibilities:
As an RMA, your duties may include:
- Patient care: Taking vital signs, administering medications, and performing basic medical procedures under the supervision of a physician or healthcare provider.
- Administrative tasks: Handling patient records, insurance claims, and scheduling appointments.
- Communication: Interacting with patients, families, and healthcare professionals, providing information and answering questions.
- Laboratory work: Assisting with laboratory procedures and collecting specimens for testing.
- Sterilization and sanitation: Maintaining a clean and sterile environment by following protocols for sterilization and infection control.
Prerequisites and Education:
To become an RMA, you typically need:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Completion of an accredited medical assisting program.
- Passing of the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam.
Certification:
RMAs often seek certification to demonstrate their competence and adhere to industry standards. Certifications can be obtained through organizations such as the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
Career Advancement:
With experience, RMAs can advance their careers by specializing in specific medical fields, pursuing higher education, or taking on leadership positions. Potential career paths include:
- Lead Medical Assistant: Supervising other medical assistants and coordinating patient care.
- Clinical Medical Assistant: Working closely with healthcare providers in clinical settings, assisting with patient care and procedures.
- Medical Scribe: Documenting patient encounters and medical histories using electronic health records (EHRs).
- Medical Office Manager: Overseeing administrative operations of a medical office.
Salary and Job Outlook:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for RMAs in May 2020 was $36,420. The job outlook is expected to grow 18% between 2019 and 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The healthcare industry is continually expanding, and with it, the demand for skilled RMAs is increasing. By pursuing a career as a Registered Medical Assistant, you can make a meaningful impact in healthcare and enjoy job security and advancement opportunities.