![]() Although there are no formal educational requirements for becoming a medical assistant in most states, employers may prefer to hire assistants who have completed these programs. Medical assistants typically graduate from postsecondary education programs. Others enter the occupation with a high school diploma and learn through on-the-job training. Most medical assistants have a postsecondary education award such as a certificate. They may make castings of feet, expose and develop x rays, and help podiatrists in surgery. Podiatric medical assistants work closely with podiatrists (foot doctors). Ophthalmic medical assistants also may help an ophthalmologist in surgery. They show patients how to insert, remove, and care for contact lenses. Ophthalmic medical assistants and optometric assistants help ophthalmologists and optometrists provide eye care. The following are examples of specialized medical assistants: Some medical assistants specialize according to the type of medical office where they work. They may have additional responsibilities, such as instructing patients about medication or special diets, preparing patients for x rays, removing stitches, drawing blood, or changing dressings. They may do basic laboratory tests, dispose of contaminated supplies, and sterilize medical instruments. They often answer telephones and schedule patient appointments.Ĭlinical medical assistants have different duties, depending on the state where they work. In larger practices or hospitals, medical assistants may specialize in either administrative or clinical work.Īdministrative medical assistants often fill out insurance forms or code patients’ medical information. Medical assistants should not be confused with physician assistants, who examine, diagnose, and treat patients under a physician’s supervision. Assistants need to learn the EHR software that their office uses. More and more physicians are adopting EHRs, moving all their patient information from paper to electronic records. They must be able to keep that information confidential and discuss it only with other medical personnel who are involved in treating the patient.Įlectronic health records (EHRs) are changing some medical assistants’ jobs. Medical assistants take and record patients’ personal information. Enter patient information into medical records. ![]()
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