Medical Assisting Education Options in Missouri

Those currently working in the healthcare field deserve a round of applause for the contributions they make to a robust industry. Perhaps due to the recently implemented healthcare subsidy, America’s health and wellness facilities are at full capacity, and some even overloaded. Medical Assistants can be the glue that holds health clinics together and the influx of new patient’s calls for more of them. If you are aspiring toward a career in healthcare, and you reside in the state of Missouri, Medical Assisting may be the job for you. [Leer en español]

Outlook

In 2012, there were 9,450 individuals working as Medical Assistants in the state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a sixteen percent rise in this industry’s growth is expected through 2022. Put another way, this means that an estimated three hundred thirty new positions in Missouri alone are becoming available every single year.

This can be an appealing career choice for many who understand the benefits this occupation has to offer. Higher wages, versatility of service, and flexibility of scope, are all very good reasons to join a healthcare team or specialization of your interest. These technicians, aids, and advocates of the industry take positions ranging from clinical wellness all the way to retail sales.

That said, the majority of Medical Assistants do work in doctor’s offices, health clinics, and hospitals. Though their range of duties will vary from clinic to clinic, region to region, we can generally describe the position as one which supports both professional and administrative staff. Working on both sides of the office, having knowledge of those treatments and procedures, as well as medication codes, billing procedures, database maintenance, and laboratory preparation, this talented support person consistently bridges the gap between medical and administrative entities.

Skills and Aptitude

Indeed, the assistant will need a high energy level and expect to be on his or her feet for extended periods. He or she will have the ability to transition seamlessly from one task to another, to facilitate positive communication, and to assume a leadership role. Leadership is imperative, as it frequently becomes the assistant’s primary duty to assure that technical details are not missed, and all clinical and regulatory processes are followed correctly. He or she will need to use assertive and yet professional language and tone, be able to manage stress well, and be willing to self-assign work and complete tasks at random.

Salaries

Salaries earned by Medical Assistants vary just as much as their positions do. A caregiver, for example, can be considered a medical assistant in certain contexts, and their starting wages might fall into the tenth percentile, around $9.86 per hour.

The average hourly wage in Missouri is about $13.97, while higher wages can commonly reach $19.07 per hour and higher. Wages earned by Medical Assistants in Missouri are directly related to the setting and context of the work, level of responsibility, years of experience, skills, and trainings or certifications held.

Salaries by Metropolitan Area in Missouri

Requirements

There are no special requirements for Medical Assistants under Missouri law, and many receive on-the-job training only. Medical Assistants can perform any function delegated to them by a nurse or physician, except those clearly restricted functions, like making diagnoses or prescribing medications.

Though some with aptitude have increased their status from entry-level work, this is not the recommended career path. As the demand for medical services increases, so does the demand for good medical staff. To maximize one’s job outlook and earning potential, a person seriously interested in this work will want to become certified. Otherwise, you may be waiting a long time to become noticed. Without certification, there is no guarantee of placement, no guarantee of salary, and even if you are promoted, it will take much longer. It is well understood that most clinics and hospitals now require career candidates to be certified. Missouri recognizes some types of certification, and these can be attained after graduating from an accredited program. There are many programs in medical assisting in the state of Missouri that offer programs in medical assisting. Be sure to check with the AAMA before comparing schools, linked here.

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