Medical Assistant School Online

About St. Augustine Educational Services: We are dedicated to providing affordable and accessible quality education to students through the use of innovative technology, such as our online distance education programs. Our innovative distance education programs are an excellent way for today's busy student to earn their Medical Assistant certificate, Nursing Assistant certificate, Pharmacy Technician certificate or other health career certificate online. Our comprehensive web-based programs deliver unparalleled convenience and flexibility to our students and our commitment to educational excellence and unsurpassed student service has made as a leader in online health care career education. We hope you choose St. Augustine Educational Services to begin a rewarding health care career or further your current education.

The American Medical Technologists : Registered Medical Assistant

The American Medical Technologists (AMT) is a nonprofit certification agency and professional membership association representing over 41,000 individuals in allied health care. Established in 1939, AMT has been providing allied health professionals with professional certification services and membership programs to enhance their professional and personal growth.
AMT's mission is to issue certification credentials to medical and dental assistants, clinical laboratory personnel, laboratory consultants, and allied health instructors.
Members include Medical Technologists, Medical Laboratory Technicians, Medical Assistants, Medical Administrative Specialists, Dental Assistants, Office Laboratory Technicians, Phlebotomy Technicians, Laboratory Consultants, and Allied Health Instructors.
In order to become an AMT member, you need to be certified by meeting educational, professional experience and examination requirements. Once certified by AMT, members receive many valuable benefits that include educational and professional programs, career assistance, information services, networking opportunities, and many other benefits.As a certification agency, AMT strives to provide competency-based examination certification for allied health professionals. Individuals opting to become certified and those choosing AMT, realize that when they pass the examination, they are receiving a credible certification from an agency that has been certifying individuals for 65 years.
Our examination-based certifications are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). NCCA is the accreditation body of NOCA. AMT must meet and demonstrate compliance with each accreditation standard. NCCA's Standards meet the requirements set forth by the American Psychological Association and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. These stringent requirements mean that the certification examination you take has been thoroughly studied and approved by NCCA.
AMT is a member of the National Organization of Competency Assurance (NOCA).
NOCA has become the leader in setting quality standards for credentialing organizations. Through its annual conference, regional seminars, and publications, NOCA serves its membership as a clearinghouse for information on the latest trends and issues of concern to practitioners and organizations focused on certification, licensure, and human resource development.
For more information on NOCA or NCCA click on the logos on the left.
Why Certify with AMT?
AMT is an established and respected certification agency whose certifications are recognized nationally and internationally.
All of AMT's examination-based certifications are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
AMT is a member and partner with the National Organization for Competency Assurance, the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards, the Career College Association, and the National Certification Commission.
The U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, notes that job opportunities in allied health professions, (i.e., medical assisting) are expected to grow much faster than average through 2014.
AMT certification confirms your commitment to an industry-recognized standard and gives you the opportunity to educate and motivate others, while you start your career as an allied health profession.
Having a recognized, national certification from AMT allows you to differentiate yourself from other candidates, and be considered for a position at a higher rate of pay.October 20-24, 2008
National Medical Assistants Week – It is a great opportunity to recognize medical assistants’ vital contributions to health care, and to raise the awareness of the profession.
“Medical assistants provide an invaluable service to both the patient and the healthcare providers in the community. We recognize their dedication to the profession and to the industry.”
Christopher A. Damon, JD, Executive Director of AMT
American Medical Technologists (AMT) helps promote and celebrate National Medical Assistants Week (NMAW), which occurs each October.


Career as a Medical Assistant
Nature of the JobMedical assistants perform routine administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices and clinics of numerous health professionals running smoothly.
Medical assistants should not be confused with Physician Assistants. Physician Assistants have expanded duties and actually examine, diagnose and treat patients under direct supervision of a physician.
Duties vary from office to office and depends on office location, size and if a MA specializes or not.
In small offices, most Medical Assistants handle both administrative and clinical duties and are considered “generalists.” Also, MA’s in small offices tend to report directly to a physician, health practitioner or office manager.
In larger offices, most Medical Assistants tend to specialize in a particular area. Also, MA’s in large offices report to department administrators or other operations management.
Duties could vary by state. Each medical assisting program at an accredited Medical Assisting school will be able to provide a list of duties a MA performs.
Some of the duties performed by MA’s:
Taking medical histories
Recording vital signs
Explaining treatment procedures to patients
Preparing patients for examination
Assisting the physician during the examination
Collect and prepare laboratory specimens
Perform basic laboratory tests on the premises
Dispose of contaminated supplies
Sterilize medical instruments
Instruct patients about medication and special diets
Prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician
Authorize drug refills as directed
Telephone prescriptions to a pharmacy
Draw blood
Prepare patients for x-rays
Take electrocardiograms
Remove sutures
Change dressings
Arrange examining room instruments and equipment
Purchase and maintain supplies and equipment
Keep waiting and examining rooms neat and clean
Allergy skin testing
Processing insurance claims
Operating a computerized patient management system
Scheduling appointments
Managing office emergencies
Performing CPR and emergency first aid
Specialized areas of Medical Assistants are:
Podiatric medical assistants: make castings of feet, expose and develop x rays, and assist in podiatrists in surgery
Ophthalmic medical assistants: help ophthalmologists provide medical eye care; conduct diagnostic tests, measure and record vision, and test eye muscle function. Show patients how to insert, remove and care for contact lenses; apply eye dressings. May administer eye medications under care of the physician and they maintain optical and surgical instruments. They may also assist the ophthalmologist in surgery.
Education Requirements:
Most employers prefer graduates who graduated from an accredited Medical Assisting program. Accredited Medical Assisting programs are offered in postsecondary vocational schools, junior colleges and in colleges and universities. Postsecondary programs usually last either one year or less which results in a certificate or diploma or two years with an associate degree.
Formal training is not mandatory but recommended. Some high schools offer courses covering those needed and with the volunteering in a health care setting provides enough education to begin a career in medical assisting. However, without formal training, certification is not eligible until five years of experience is reached. Formal education is recommended by many employers.
Courses/topics covered are:
Anatomy
Physiology
Medical terminology
Typing
Transcription
Recordkeeping
Accounting
Insurance processing
Laboratory techniques
Clinical and diagnostic procedures
Pharmaceutical principles
Medication administration
First aid
Office practices and procedures
Patient relations
Medical law
Ethics
Most accredited programs include an internship that provides practical experience in a hospital, healthcare facility or physicians’ office.There is no licensing for medical assistants, however, some states require them to take a test or course before they can perform certain job duties, such as x-rays. Employers prefer to hire experienced workers and many prefer certified applicants who have passed a national examination, indicating that the medical assistant meets certain standards of competence.
AMT is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
Medical assistants are able to advance to office manager or a variety of administrative duties and may teach medical assisting courses after a number of years of experience. Some medical assistants return to school for more education to become nurses, medical laboratory technicians, medical technologists or enter into other health related occupations. Some medical assistants also certify as phlebotomy technicians (the practice of drawing blood) besides their medical assisting certification.
Working Conditions
Medical assistants deal with the public on a daily basis and must be neat and well groomed. Their working conditions are in well-lighted and very clean environments. Most medical assistants work a 40-hour work week and depending on where employed, may work nights and weekends.
Employment/Employment Outlook
Employment of medical assistants is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupations through the year 2014 as the health care industry expands because of technological advances in medicine and the growth and aging of the population. Increasing utilization of medical assistants in the rapidly growing health care industry will further stimulate job growth. In fact, medical assistanting is projected to be one of the fastest growing occupations over the 2004-14 period.
Employment growth will be driven by the increase in the number of group practices, clinics, and other health care facilities that need a high proportion of support personnel, particularly the flexible medical assistant who can handle both administrative and clinical duties. Medical assistants work primarily in outpatient settings, a rapidly growing sector of the health care industry.
In view of the preference of many health care employers for trained personnel, job prospects should be best for medical assistants with formal training or experience, particularly for those with certification.
Estimated Earnings
The earnings of medical assistants vary, depending on their experience, skill level, and location. Median annual earnings of medical assistants were $24,610 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $20,650 and $28,930. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $18,010, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $34,650. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of medical assistants in May 2004 were:
Colleges, universities, and professional schools $27,490
Outpatient care centers 25,360
General medical and surgical hospitals 25,160
Offices of physicians 24,930
Offices of other health practitioners 21,930
Career information from Occuational Outlook Handbook online.
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
AMT MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of AMT is to manage, promote, expand upon and continuously improve our certification programs for allied health professionals who work in a variety of disciplines and settings, to administer certification examinations in accordance with the highest standards of accreditation, and to provide continuing education, information, advocacy services and other benefits to our AMT members.
AMT VISION STATEMENT
Our vision is for American Medical Technologists to be acknowledged and recognized by the world as truly being THE premier certification and membership organization for allied health professionals, particularly those in the professions of medical technology, phlebotomy, medical assisting, dental assisting and medical office administration.

How to become a medical assistant

Medical Assistant Websites:
News for Medical Assistant
http://technorati.com/blogs/www.medassistant.org
http://reg32.newsvine.com/_news/2008/07/28/1701862-medical-assistant-training
http://digg.com/world_news/Medical_Assistant_Education
http://www.propeller.com/story/2008/06/09/medical-assistant/
http://www.memfrag.com/mf.app?ps=Medical+Assistant+Training+
http://www.netvouz.com/krazy01/tag/medical
http://del.icio.us/smart17/medical
The mission of the American Association of Medical Assistants is to enable medical assisting professionals to enhance and demonstrate the knowledge, skills and professionalism required by employers and patients; protect medical assistants' right to practice; and promote effective, efficient health care delivery through optimal use of the CMA (AAMA).
History of the American Medical Assistant Association:
1955
The Kansas Medical Assistants Society initiated a meeting in Kansas City, Kansas, to consider the formation of a national organization.
The name of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) was accepted by vote. 1956
The Charter Meeting was held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The Constitution and Bylaws was adopted and permanent officers were elected.
The American Medical Association (AMA) passed a resolution commending the objectives of AAMA.
Carmen Kline, CMA-A (KS) was co-chair with Maxine Williams, CMA-A (KS) for the AAMA Founding Meeting. 1957
Maxine Williams, CMA-A (KS) was elected the first AAMA president.
At the first Annual Meeting, the House of Delegates was accepted as the legislative body of the national association.
At this meeting, the first educational sessions were designed to increase the professionalism of medical assistants.
The first official publication, The Ambassador, was published. 1958
Tri-level membership was approved with one membership card for local, state and national membership.
A national emblem was selected. 1959
AAMA was incorporated in the State of Illinois as a not-for-profit professional organization.
The national headquarters was opened in Chicago, Illinois.
The Scholarship Fund was started with a $200 contribution from Maxine Williams. It was later named the Maxine Williams Scholarship Fund.
A Certification Committee was appointed to develop the AAMA Certification program. 1960
Tri-level membership in AAMA was voted as mandatory. 1961
The Certifying Board was established. 1962
A sample examination for Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) was given at the convention with no credit given. 1963
The first certification examinations were given in California, Kansas and Florida. 1966
A special committee was appointed to develop curriculum standards for the training of medical assistants, as a prelude to collaborating with the American Medical Association in the accreditation of educational programs on a postsecondary level. 1968
The AAMA Endowment was established as a public foundation for educational, charitable and scientific purposes.
The name of the official publication was changed to the The Professional Medical Assistant. 1969
The "Essentials of an Approved Educational Program for Medical Assistants" were approved by the AMA Council on Medical Education and the AMA House of Delegates.
Five two-year educational programs were accredited by AMA's Council on Medical Education in collaboration with AAMA's Program approval committee.
Student and faculty memberships were approved as new categories of membership.
An Education Council was created to coordinate the educational activities of the association. 1971
Certification eligibility requirements were broadened to include medical assisting instructors and students.
The AMA House of Delegates approved a set of revised Essentials for a basic one-year curriculum, thus allowing for the evaluation of programs not only in community and junior colleges but also in vocational-technical, proprietary and military-based institutions. 1972
A committee was formed to begin work on a guided home study course.
AMA/AAMA filed a petition with the U.S. Office of Education seeking recognition as the official accrediting agency for medical assisting programs. 1973
The Curriculum Review Committee became the Curriculum Review Board. 1974
The U.S. Office of Education recognized AMA/AAMA as an official accrediting agency for medical assisting programs in public and private institutions. 1975
The revised certification program, consisting of a basic test plus three specialty examinations Administrative, Clinical and Pediatric was implemented.
The name of the In-Service Education Committee was changed to the Continuing Education Committee.
The House of Delegates approved the adoption of the Continuing Education Unit and stipulated that CEUs meet the minimum criteria as promulgated by the National Task Force on the Continuing Education Unit. 1976
AAMA's 20th Anniversary year was a time for noting progress during two decades of educational service. Membership reached 18,500 with 525 chapters in 47 states and the District of Columbia.
The number of AMA/AAMA accredited post secondary programs reached 117 in 108 institutions.
The highest number of medical assisting certificates-1,959-were awarded, making a total of 5,197 since the program's inception.
A new category of membership-international-was instituted.
The Task Descriptor Project was initiated whereby an analysis of 475 medical assisting tasks in 18 categories was undertaken.
Continued recognition for a four-year period was extended by the U.S. Office of Education to the Curriculum Review Board in its collaborative accrediting role with AMA.
The Continuing Education Committee officially launched the CEU Approval Program, whereby state societies and chapters that met specific guidelines could offer CEU credit to participants. 1977
Active membership was opened to any practicing medical assistant who achieved AAMA certification.
The National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) was engaged as the test consultant for the AAMA certification examinations.
Responsibility for the accreditation of one- and two-year medical assisting programs was transferred from the AMA's Council on Medical Education to the AMA-sponsored but independently operated Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation (CAHEA). The AAMA Endowment's Curriculum Review Board remained the recommending body.
Revised Essentials of an Accredited Educational Program for the Medical Assistant were accepted by the AMA Council on Medical Education. 1978
The Continuing Education Board was formed.
For the first time, the AAMA basic Certification Examination was given twice yearly (in January and June) at test centers nationwide. 1979
The DACUM (Developing a Curriculum) process analysis of the medical assisting profession was conducted. 1980
The Certification Revalidation Program was officially launched, allowing Certified Medical Assistants to revalidate their credentialing by either the continuing education or examination methods. 1982
A Legislation Committee Subcommittee on State Legislation was established to monitor grassroots legislation affecting allied health and to encourage member involvement in the legislative process at the local level. 1985
A position statement adopted that AAMA advocate the credentialing of medical assistants through certification, with mandatory revalidation, and that a record of Certified Medical Assistants be maintained by AAMA to serve as the verification of certification status. 1988
The AAMA logo was redesigned. 1989
The Continuing Education Board (CEB) began the Sponsor Approval Program.
The new AAMA logo was introduced.
CMA pins were provided without cost for the new CMAs. 1990
The DACUM was published. 1991
The AMA's CAHEA approved the 1991 Essentials and Guidelines for an Accredited Education Program for the Medical Assistant. 1992
The CEB announced in-house registration of AAMA-CEU credits.
AMA proposed that a new independent accrediting agency be established to replace CAHEA. 1993
Effective January 1, 1995, a change in recertification was implemented. Of the 60 recertification points needed to revalidate the AAMA-CMA credential, 20 must be from AAMA approved CEU programs. Specialty credentials require 5 of the 20 points be AAMA approved CEU programs. Point distribution: General 15; Administrative 15 and Clinical 15 with remaining 15 applied to any of the three content categories.
The Task Force on Restructuring CAHEA recommended the establishment of the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) as the accrediting agency. Preliminary announcement to dissolve CAHEA was made by the AMA. 1994
38th House of Delegates passed a Bylaws amendment requiring members to the Board of Trustees to be AAMA Certified Medical Assistants (CMA) holding current status.
The official dissolution of CAHEA was announced by the AMA. The CRB and AAMA Endowment voted to affiliate with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
The AAMA Endowment established the Surveyor Training Fund. 1995
The eligibility pathway for candidates of the AAMA Certification Examination was changed as follows: "Any candidate for the AAMA Certification Exam must be a graduate of a CAAHEP accredited medical assisting program." This requirement would become effective February 1, 1998. This decision was made to require educational standards for medical assistants. 1996
June 25: AMA House of Delegates granted AAMA Official Observer Status to the HOD.
BOT approved plans to establish an Internet Web site at www.aama-ntl.org.
National Board of Medical Examiners completed the 1996 Occupational Analysis on Medical Assisting. 1997
The Role Delineation Study was completed and replaced the previous DACUM Study.
Approximately 13,000 candidates sat for the Certification Exam, a record number since its inception in 1963. 1998
The Advanced Practice Document was implemented for advance CE Sessions.
AAMA held a Content-Based Standard Setting Exercise requested by the NBME. 1999
The 1998 Medical Assistants Employment Issues Survey was published in PMA.
The AAMA Endowment approved the 1999 Standards for a Medical Assisting Program.
The Certifying Board established mandatory recertification as follows: "Beginning January 1, 2003, all CMAs currently employed or seeking employment as medical assistants must have current status in order to use the CMA credential."
The Board of Trustees approved the Disciplinary Standards and Procedures for Certified Medical Assistants. 2000
There were more than 470 CAAHEP-accredited medical assisting programs in 450 institutions across the United States. 2001
Partial autonomy for the CRB was approved. 2002
The official publication, PMA, was changed to CMA Today.
A CMA pin journeyed into space on board a NASA shuttle. 2003
A third administration of the AAMA CMA Certification/Recertification Examination was established for October.
Health care provider level CPR was determined for mandatory for CMA recertification, effective January 2005. 2004
Partial autonomy for the Certifying Board was approved. 2005
The new Vision Statement was approved by the Board of Trustees: The vision of the American Association of Medical Assistants is to increase recognition of Certified Medical Assistants as the premier choice in the Allied Health Professions.
2006
The AAMA held its 50th Annual Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, home to the association's charter meeting in 1956.
The Keynote Speaker was AAMA Founding Member Alice Budny, AAMA President (1963). Fifteen AAMA Past Presidents were introduced to the 50th House of Delegates. AAMA Founding Members Roberta Antrim, CMA-AC, MHR, and Sylvia Klotz, CMA-C, also were presented to the House of Delegates.
A slide presentation of the past 50 years of AAMA activities was prepared and presented by Mary Lou Allison, CMA-C, 1992 AAMA Past President.
2007
AAMA successfully defended "Certified Medical Assistant®" trademark registration in a lawsuit brought by American Medical Technologists (AMT).
The annual meeting name was officially changed from convention to conference.
Approved the renewal of the contract with the American Academy of Professional Coders for five years.
Appointed the Telemedicine Task Force to investigate the possibility and/or feasibility of integrating CMAs into a federal program that renders care via telemedicine to remote Inuit villages in Alaska.
Allocated funds for the AAMA President and Vice President to represent AAMA at the annual meeting of the Professional Association of Health Care Office Management.

AAMA Annual Conventions
1957
1st
San Francisco, Calif.
1958
2nd
Chicago, Ill.
1959
3rd
Philadelphia, Pa.
1960
4th
Reno, Nev.
1961
5th
Dallas, Texas
1962
6th
Detroit, Mich.
1963
7th
Miami Beach, Fla.
1964
8th
Oklahoma City, Okla.
1965
9th
New York City, N.Y.
1966
10th
St. Louis, Mo.
1967
11th
Los Angeles, Calif.
1968
12th
Columbus, Ohio
1969
13th
Honolulu, Hawaii
1970
14th
Des Moines, Iowa
1971
15th
Atlanta, Ga.
1972
16th
Phoenix, Ariz.
1973
17th
Washington, D.C.
1974
18th
Denver, Colo.
1975
19th
Louisville, Ky.
1976
20th
Chicago, Ill.
1977
21st
San Francisco, Calif.
1978
22nd
Boston, Mass.
1979
23rd
New Orleans, La.
1980
24th
Kansas City, Kan.
1981
25th
Milwaukee, Wis.
1982
26th
Houston, Texas
1983
27th
New York City, N.Y.
1984
28th
Portland, Ore.
1985
29th
Lexington, Ky.
1986
30th
Chicago, Ill.
1987
31st
Chicago, Ill.
1988
32nd
Richmond, Va.
1989
33rd
Charleston, S.C.
1990
34th
(SW) Los Angeles, Calif.
1991
35th
(NE) Pittsburgh, Pa.
1992
36th
(NW) Seattle, Wash.
1993
37th
(MW) Indianapolis, Ind.
1994
38th
(SE) Orlando, Fla.
1995
39th
(SW) San Antonio, Texas
1996
40th
(NE) Philadelphia, Pa.
1997
41st
(NW) Minneapolis, Minn.
1998
42nd
(MW) Columbus, Ohio
1999
43rd
(SE) Nashville, Tenn.
2000
44th
(SW) Albuquerque, N.M.
2001
45th
(NE) Buffalo, N.Y.
2002
46th
(NW) Portland, Ore.
2003
47th
(MW) Detroit, Mich.
2004
48th
(SE) Greensboro, N.C.
2005
49th
(SW) Colorado Springs, Colo.
2006
50th
(MW) Milwaukee, Wis.
2007
51st
(SE) Louisville, Ky.
Medical Assistant School Details
Online Medical Assistant Schools:
http://www.linkagogo.com/go/Search?search=Medical+Assistant+Course
http://www.listerlister.com/list/medical-assistant-school
http://www.pbtimes.net/story.php?title=Medical-Assistant-School
Medical assistants enjoy an exciting, challenging career that is essential to patient care in medical offices and clinics.
Medical assistants are in demand! Medical assisting is one of the nation's fastest growing careers through 2012, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. This can be attributed to a predicted surge in the number of physicians' offices and outpatient care facilities. Technological advancements and the growing number of elderly Americans who need medical treatment are also factors for the increased demand for medical assistants.
So... what do medical assistants actually do?Medical assistants have a great amount of variety in their jobs and are cross-trained to perform many administrative and clinical duties. Of course, duties vary from office to office depending on location, size and specialty.
Administrative duties may include...
Using computer applications
Answering telephones
Greeting patients
Updating and filing patient medical records
Coding and filling out insurance forms
Scheduling appointments
Arranging for hospital admissions and laboratory services
Handling correspondence, billing and bookkeeping
Clinical duties vary by state and include...
Taking medical histories
Explaining treatment procedures to patients
Preparing patients for examination
Assisting the physician during the exam
Collecting and preparing laboratory specimens
Performing basic laboratory tests
Instructing patients about medication and special diets
Preparing and administering medications as directed by a physician
Authorizing prescription refills as directed
Drawing blood
Taking electrocardiograms
Removing sutures and changing dressings
Medical assistants are caring medical assistant give health care a human touch, helping patients to feel at ease in the doctor's office and to understand physicians' instructions. If you have good communications skills and are often appreciated for your caring manner, then you might be well suited for a career in medical assisting.
Medical Assistant Jobs:
The demand for medical assistants is driving this expansion. Employers are seeking and recruiting these allied health professionals because of their uniquely diverse clinical and administrative training.
As the number of medical assistants grows, so does the recognition of their value in the marketplace. http://www.medassistant.org/registration.html


AAMA Services
Introduction Publications Accreditation Certification and Recertification Continuing Education Right-to-Practice Monitoring Member Discounts Group Insurance Annual Convention Networking Opportunities

Join Now and Start Making a DifferenceThe key to enjoying the advantages of AAMA membership is belonging. Find out how to become a member. The entire enrollment process takes just a few minutes, but you'll reap a lifetime of benefits.
Employment of medical assistants is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations as the health services industry expands due to technological advances in medicine, and a growing and aging population. It is one of the fastest growing occupations.
Your numbers are growing.
The demand for your unique expertise is increasing, as are the complexities of your profession.
The American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) is here to keep you abreast of changes in the health care delivery field, to protect your right to practice, and to help make your job easier.
We're growing with you. Thousands of medical assistants join the AAMA each year.
The AAMA is the only association in the world devoted exclusively to the medical assisting profession. Since its inception in 1955, membership has expanded to over 325 local chapters, spanning 43 states.
AAMA members are your peers and colleagues. They comprise practicing medical assistants, medical assisting educators, students, and others interested in the profession. In addition, scores of physicians serve the AAMA at the chapter, state and national levels.
When you join the AAMA you are investing in your career and your future. And, you are strengthening an association that has your professional interests at heart.
http://www.ladykillr.com/story.php?title=Medical_Assistant_Training
Medical assistants perform administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, and other health practitioners running smoothly. According to the United States Department of Labor, "...employment is projected to grow much faster than average, ranking medical assistants among the fastest growing occupations over the 2006-16 decade. Job opportunities should be excellent, particularly for those with formal training."

Online Education for Medical Assistants

Online Education for Medical Assistant

Distance education is a field of education that focuses on the use of instructional systems designed to deliver education to students who are not physically on site of a school campus. Rather than attending courses in person, teachers and students may communicate at times of their own choosing by exchanging printed, electronic media or through technology that allows them to communicate in real time.
In the past medical assistants and medical office staff were usually trained on the job with informal instruction. However with the advent of internet technology medical assistant and office staff classes can be taken online. St. Augustine School of Medical Assistants is a good example of an educational service using these new innovative technologies to deliver online instruction to medical assistants and medical office staff.
Medical assistants usually perform administrative and clinical tasks to keep the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, and other health practitioners running smoothly. They should not be confused with physician assistants, who examine, diagnose, and treat patients under the direct supervision of a physician. The duties of medical assistants vary from office to office, depending on the location and size of the practice and the practitioner’s specialty. Employment for medical assistants is projected to grow much faster than average, ranking medical assistants among the fastest growing occupations over the 2006-16 decade. Job opportunities should be excellent, particularly for those with formal training or experience, and certification. Medical assistants may advance to other occupations through experience or additional training. For example, some may go on to teach medical assisting, and others pursue additional education to become nurses or other health care workers. Administrative medical assistants may advance to office manager, or qualify for a variety of administrative support occupations.
According to the U.S. Department of Education (National Forum on Education Statistics) virtual education is now part of the planning agenda of most organizations concerned with education and training. The quality of distance learning has greatly improved in the past few years, as both students and educators have become more comfortable with the technology, and as stories of best practices have been shared and duplicated.
Recent research has shown that the most significant factor helping students to succeed in online classes has been their ability to manage time. Distance learning features a number of advantages such: as accessibility for those living away from the training center, no waste of time or other resources in transport, and flexibility to study in any convenient location with an Internet connection. Self-paced online learning also allows students to quickly browse materials you have already mastered, and concentrate time and effort in areas containing new information. They can study materials at a personal speed and intensity, without having to wait for slower pace of the average classroom.
Online classes such as the medical assistant program offer at http://www.medassistant.org/ provide more opportunities to study the most current material available and provide flexibility for those with irregular work schedules. Also providing accessibility for those with restricted mobility, such as the handicapped and accessibility for those with family responsibilities (e.g. parents with young children at home). If you are interested in learning more about online medical assistant classes you may wish to consider a program such as that offered by St. Augustine School of Medical Assistants and other online distance education providers.

Medical Assistant Jobs

Medical Assistant Jobs
Medical Assistant Jobs and Medical Assistant Job Postings:
Medical assistant jobs:
Medical Assistant
Medical Office Fairfax, VA
Solo internal medicine practice near Fairfax hospital in Northern, VA seeking a medical assistant with excellent phlebotomy skills and good people skills. Please email resume with contact telephone number to masearch@yahoo.com...
Medical Assistant
Kim Tran, MD PA Austin, TX
Full-time, Experienced Medical Assistant needed for Family Practice office in Northwest Austin...
medical assistant,phlebotomy technician
Watson Clinic Lakeland, FL
medical asssitant , phlebotomy assistant position...
1 - 10 of 13,556 results from across the web
Medical Assistant
Medical Office Fairfax, VA
Solo internal medicine practice near Fairfax hospital in Northern, VA seeking a medical assistant with excellent phlebotomy skills and good people skills. Please email resume with contact telephone number to masearch@yahoo.com...
Posted 12 days ago on Jobster
Medical Assistant
Kim Tran, MD PA Austin, TX
Full-time, Experienced Medical Assistant needed for Family Practice office in Northwest Austin...
Posted 24 days ago on Jobster
medical assistant,phlebotomy technician
Watson Clinic Lakeland, FL
medical asssitant , phlebotomy assistant position...
Posted 10 days ago on Jobster
Medical Assistant
Diagnostic Center of Medicine Las Vegas, NV
Medical Assistant...
Arrived 12 days ago from CareerBuilder
Medical Assistant
Doctors' Corner Personnel Services Valley Village, CA
Medical Assistant of the physician...
Arrived 2 days ago from CareerBuilder
MEDICAL ASSISTANT
ATC Healthcare Columbus, OH
Medical Assistant of the office manager or physician...
Arrived 19 days ago from CareerBuilder
Medical Assistant / LPN
Greeley Medical Clinic Greeley, CO
Medical Assistant or LPN. screens.)...
Arrived 11 days ago from CareerBuilder
Medical Assistant
The Tuttle Agency Abington, PA
At least 1 year of current experience as a Medical Assistant...
Arrived 2 days ago from CareerBuilder
Medical Assistant
The Tuttle Agency Jamison, PA
At least 1 year of current experience as a Medical Assistant...
Arrived 2 days ago from CareerBuilder
Additional Medical Assistant job info at: CarrerrBuilder

nursing opportunities: medical assistant jobs

Nursing Jobs: Medical Assistant
http://nursesopportunities.blogspot.com/2008/07/home-study-opportunity-medical.html
Home Study Opportunity: Medical Assistant Program
The rise of the needs for medical related jobs today is getting high. Most of the highly urbanized countries now are hiring additional medical related professionals for their Hospitals and Medical Institutions. The United States Department of Labor has just projected that the Medical Assistant Employment in the country will drastically soar high for the coming years.
Thus, a number of educational institutions now are responding to this need. The St. Augustine Educational Services, for one, is a medical assistant school that offers an online course for busy yet very interested applicants/students. Their medical assistant training program has been thoroughly reviewed by medical professionals to keep up with the prevailing standards. The home study program can be completed for about 6 to 8 weeks only. It’s a very convenient learning system because one can study at home and even only after working hours. Thus, lessening the actual over-all cost of education yet still implementing the same competitive standards. Additional information at: http://nursesopportunities.blogspot.com/2008/07/home-study-opportunity-medical.html

Nursing Assistant

We now provide online nursing assistant classes designed by the experts in the industry, like physicians, nurses, medical assistants and other healthcare professionals. Our comprehensive web-based Nursing Assistant program delivers unparalleled convenience and flexibility to our students. Our online nursing assistant programs are an excellent way for today's busy students to earn their Nursing Assistant certificate and our certificate can help them as credentials in any walks of the healthcare profession. Our web-based nursing assistant courses and programs allow you to earn your Nursing Assistant Certificate, while managing work and family responsibilities the same time.

If your would like details about our Medical Assistant program then please visit www.medassistant.org

medical assistant schools

Medical Assistant Schools: The role of a Medical Assistant has grown increasingly important in today's healthcare field. Medical Assistants chart each patient's medical history. Additionally, they take height, weight, pulse respiration, temperature, prepare and administer injections, apply bandages and dressings and record electrocardiograms. A Medical Assistant will also be exposed to the opportunity to perform many of the administrative skills so valuable in any busy office. Responsibilities may include patient record maintenance, patient scheduling, insurance form processing and basic bookkeeping. A Medical Assistant's knowledge of office software skills and terminology help make the role a necessity in any medical office. Medical Assistant Careers: medical assistnat graduates may be qualified for many positions in the medical field, finding employment in medical offices, health clinics, hospitals, labs, pharmaceutical companies, medical supply houses or insurance companies.

St. Augustine School of Medical Assistants

St. Augustine School of Medical Assistants is a private school incorporated in the British Virgin Islands specializing in distance education training programs for medical assistants [1] and related health care professionals. [2] The school was officially chartered in 2001 to offer correspondence training classes for medical assistants and students interested in allied health careers. St. Augustine Educational Services is accredited by The National Accreditation and Certification Board [3]Medical Assistant distance education is emerging to meet the demands of a new generation of Medical Assistant students in the twenty first century. St. Augustine Medical Assistant School distance education program for medical assistant presents a good model for this integration of technology with medical assistant education. Distance education, particularly in its most recent form, online education, is being integrated into even the most cautious and conservative of educational institutions. Yet the impact of these alternative forms of teaching and learning on students, faculty, and institutions has yet to be broadly or deeply studied. New models such as that at St. Augustine Medical Assistant School are immerging. [4]
Upon completion of the program offered students are awarded a non-credit medical assistant career certificate. Most medical assistants after completing this program pursue careers in physician’s offices, hospitals, clinics and other heath care settings. Many students often choice to continue their education and attain college level degrees and additional medical assistant certification. [edit] Online Medical Assistant Classes
Medical Terminology, Human Body Planes, Basic Human Anatomy and Physiology, Medical Office Professionalism, Patient Communication, Medical Records, Basic Medical Law, Scheduling Appointments, Medical Billing and Insurance Claims, Infection Control, Surgical Instruments, Emergency Care, Clinical Equipment, Patient History and Physicals, EKG and Lab Testing, Specimen Collection and Lab Safety, Introduction to Patient Medications
Online Medical Assistant Labs
Virtual Phlebotomy Lab (Collecting a Blood Sample), Virtual Injection Lab , Medication injections, Measuring A Pulse, Introduction to CPR and Basic Ultrasound. Medical Assistant School website at: www.medassistant.org

Emplyment Opportunities for Medical Assistants

Medical Assistant Employment Opportunities: According to the United States Department of Labor, "job prospects are excellent for Medical Assistants. Employment is projected to grow much faster than average, ranking medical assistants among the fastest growing occupations over the 2006-16 decade. Job opportunities should be excellent, particularly for those with formal training. Most Medical Assistants work in doctors offices, hospitals, clinics or other health care settings. A Medical Assistant assists with administrative tasks and minor procedures to keep the doctor's offices and health care facilities running smoothly. Helping to drive job growth is the increasing number of group practices, clinics, and other health care facilities that need a high proportion of support personnel, particularly medical assistants who can handle both administrative and clinical duties. In addition, medical assistants work primarily in outpatient settings, a rapidly growing sector of the health care industry. Job seekers who want to work as a medical assistant should find excellent job prospects. Medical assistants are projected to account for a very large number of new jobs, and many other opportunities will come from the need to replace workers leaving the occupation. Those with formal training or experience should have the best job opportunities."

career opportunities- medical assistants

Career Opportunities for medical assistants:
Medical asssistant can often seek entry level employment in a variety of settings including:
hospital, clinic
doctor’s office
nursing home
medical supply business,
home healthcare agency
insurance company
dialysis centers
laboratories

Clinical Medical Assistant

Clinical duties performed by medical assistants may include:
Taking medical histories and recording vital signs
Explaining treatment procedures to patients
Preparing patients for examination
Assisting the physician during the examination
Sterilizing medical instruments
Collecting and preparing laboratory specimens
Instructing patients about medications and special diets
Preparing and administering medications as directed by a physician
Authorizing drug refills as directed
Phlebotomy
Administering EKG's
Removing sutures
Changing dressings

Healthcare:: Medical Assistant

Medical Assistants: Career, Salary and Education Information
Career Profile: What do Medical Assistants do? Trusted to keep medical documents safe, medical assistants are an indispensable force in physicians' offices. In smaller offices, medical assistants do it all, taking on both administrative and clinical responsibilities. Medical assistants can specialize in ophthalmic, optometric, or podiatric capabilities, to name a few, or they can stick to general practice in general medical and surgical hospitals.
Strong organizational skills are essential for the job. Medical assistants must often work in a customer service capacity, handling correspondence and scheduling appointments. Because they often serve as a link between patients and medical personnel, assistants must have strong communication skills.
A Day in the Life of a Medical Assistant. The daily tasks of a medical assistant depend highly on their job description and location. Administrative tasks might include filing patient records, arranging for hospital admissions or laboratory services, or filling out insurance forms. The clinical duties of a medical assistant could include recording vital signs, explaining treatment procedures, changing dressings, and preparing patients for x-rays and other procedures.
Regardless of their individual duties, most medical assistants work 40 hour work weeks in well-lighted, clean environments. Depending on the office hours and clinical scope, some may work part-time, evenings, or weekends.
Training and Education for Medical Assistants. Many medical assistants now complete formal online training programs, culminating in a certificate or associate's degree. Formal training is generally preferred but not always required, and all medical assistants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Volunteer experience in the health care field provides informal training that may prove valuable in the hiring process.
Typical coursework for medical assistants includes training in lab techniques, clinical procedures, medical terminology, and medical office procedures. Students must have a facility with medical terminology along with interpersonal skills in dealing with patients.
Medical Assistant Employment & OutlookAbout 417,000 medical assistants were employed nationwide in 2006, with most working in physicians' offices. Career opportunities for medical assistants are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2016. About 148,000 additional jobs are expected to be added to the field, thanks to an expanding health care industry, technological advances in medicine, and an aging population. Medical assistants who can handle both administrative and clinical duties are expected to have the best job prospects.
Advancement in the field typically requires more training and certification. Many medical assistants choose to become nurses or other health care workers through further study. Administrative positions provide another popular career path because an administrative medical assistant can rise to the position of office manager without additional education.
Typical Salary for Medical AssistantsMedical assistants earned mean annual wages of $28,270 in 2007, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. State government facilities were the highest paying employer, with medical assistants earning annual mean wages of $36,430.

Is medical assisting for you?

Is Medical Assisting For You?
Are you looking for a meaningful job?
Do you like helping others?
Do you have an interest in health and medicine?
Are you a "people person"?
Are you good at multitasking - switching tasks throughout the workday?
Do you like variety in your job?
Would you like to enter a career in an expanding field?
If you answered "yes" to five or more of these questions, then medical assisting might be the right career choice for you.
Medical assistants enjoy an exciting, challenging career that is essential to patient care in medical offices and clinics.
Medical assistants are in demand! Medical assisting is one of the nation's fastest growing careers through 2012, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. This can be attributed to a predicted surge in the number of physicians' offices and outpatient care facilities. Technological advancements and the growing number of elderly Americans who need medical treatment are also factors for the increased demand for medical assistants.
So... what do medical assistants actually do?Medical assistants have a great amount of variety in their jobs and are cross-trained to perform many administrative and clinical duties. Of course, duties vary from office to office depending on location, size and specialty.
Administrative duties may include...
Using computer applications
Answering telephones
Greeting patients
Updating and filing patient medical records
Coding and filling out insurance forms
Scheduling appointments
Arranging for hospital admissions and laboratory services
Handling correspondence, billing and bookkeeping
Clinical duties vary by state and include...
Taking medical histories
Explaining treatment procedures to patients
Preparing patients for examination
Assisting the physician during the exam
Collecting and preparing laboratory specimens
Performing basic laboratory tests
Instructing patients about medication and special diets
Preparing and administering medications as directed by a physician
Authorizing prescription refills as directed
Drawing blood
Taking electrocardiograms
Removing sutures and changing dressings
Medical assistants are caringMedical assistants give health care a human touch, helping patients to feel at ease in the doctor's office and to understand physicians' instructions. If you have good communications skills and are often appreciated for your caring manner, then you might be well suited for a career in medical assisting.

medical assistant duties

The duties of medical assistants vary from office to office, depending on the location and size of the practice and the practitioner’s specialty. In small practices, medical assistants usually do many different kinds of tasks, handling both administrative and clinical duties and reporting directly to an office manager, physician, or other health practitioner. Those in large practices tend to specialize in a particular area, under the supervision of department administrators.
Medical assistants who perform administrative tasks have many duties. They update and file patients’ medical records, fill out insurance forms, and arrange for hospital admissions and laboratory services. They also perform tasks less specific to medical settings, such as answering telephones, greeting patients, handling correspondence, scheduling appointments, and handling billing and bookkeeping.
For clinical medical assistants, duties vary according to what is allowed by State law. Some common tasks include taking medical histories and recording vital signs, explaining treatment procedures to patients, preparing patients for examinations, and assisting physicians during examinations. Medical assistants collect and prepare laboratory specimens and sometimes perform basic laboratory tests on the premises, dispose of contaminated supplies, and sterilize medical instruments. They might instruct patients about medications and special diets, prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician, authorize drug refills as directed, telephone prescriptions to a pharmacy, draw blood, prepare patients for x-rays, take electrocardiograms, remove sutures, and change dressings.
Medical assistants also may arrange examining room instruments and equipment, purchase and maintain supplies and equipment, and keep waiting and examining rooms neat and clean.
Ophthalmic medical assistants, optometric assistants, and podiatric medical assistants are examples of specialized assistants who have additional duties. Ophthalmic medical assistants help ophthalmologists provide eye care. They conduct diagnostic tests, measure and record vision, and test eye muscle function. They also show patients how to insert, remove, and care for contact lenses, and they apply eye dressings. Under the direction of the physician, ophthalmic medical assistants may administer eye medications. They also maintain optical and surgical instruments and may assist the ophthalmologist in surgery. Optometric assistants also help provide eye care, working with optometrists. They provide chair-side assistance, instruct patients about contact lens use and care, conduct preliminary tests on patients, and otherwise provide assistance while working directly with an optometrist. Podiatric medical assistants make castings of feet, expose and develop x rays, and assist podiatrists in surgery.
Work environment. Medical assistants work in well-lighted, clean environments. They constantly interact with other people and may have to handle several responsibilities at once. Most full-time medical assistants work a regular 40-hour week. However, many medical assistants work part time, evenings, or weekends.

medical assistant student blog

9.15.2008
by Bonz.
medical assistant schools...
being a medical graduate these days gives you more opportunities to work abroad, you'll just need to have a proper training from those certified medical training schools.that's why distance education are now available online and the most preferred way in training those who wants to take medical assistant training courses.there are a lot of medical assistant schools i found online, but st. augustine school of medical assistant kinda give me a buzz...i think i saw one st. augustine school here in manila, phils.anyway, they offer best medical assistance certificate program designed by medical professionals, they are accredited and affordable for medical assistant training, they'll be training you and answer all your queries or problems through online support and you'll just be training at your own time for just 6-8 weeks!they offer different medical programs too... they're giving dental assistance program, nursing assistance program and pharmacy technician program.for more inquiries just visit st. augustine school of medical assistants at medassistant.org.

medical assistant certification (CMA) AAMA

Discover the CMA (AAMA) Advantage
When you become a medical assistant, you will work in a challenging, changing, rewarding profession.
So, why go to the trouble of becoming certified?
Certification means a professional edge. It means greater prestige among peers and employers.
It means better job security and greater career advancement opportunities.
Managed care compels doctors to seek professionals, so many employers of allied health personnel insist that their medical assistants be Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) who have achieved certification through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). Why?
To earn the CMA (AAMA) credential you must enroll in a medical assisting program accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). You will attain academic and clinical training in a variety of areas, including?
Human anatomy, physiology and pathology
Medical terminology
Keyboarding and computer applications
Recordkeeping and accounting
Coding and insurance processing
Laboratory techniques
Clinical and diagnostic procedures
Pharmacology
Medication administration
First aid
Office practices
Patient relations
Medical law and ethics
Once you graduate from the program you must successfully complete the rigorous CMA (AAMA) Certification Examination.
Achieving the credential demonstrates two important things to your employer: First, you possess exceptionally broad, thorough knowledge of the field in which you're working. Second, you care enough about your profession to attain that knowledge.
You must renew the credential every five years. This means keeping abreast of new developments in the health care delivery field. You'll participate in continuing education workshops, read authoritative texts, and network with other medical assistants. Health care delivery is changing every day. As a CMA (AAMA), you will be changing with it.
Better job opportunities and pay
As one of the fastest growing allied health care careers, medical assisting offers terrific opportunities for advancement. Medical assistants with certification can advance to office manager, clinical supervisor or qualify for a variety of administrative support occupations. Some medical assistants choose to teach medical assisting. Others choose to obtain a bachelor's degree in human services, health promotion or health services management, to name a few.
Medical assistants with certification are paid competitive wages and can receive valuable benefits. More importantly, they have the satisfaction of knowing that they are helping others and making a positive difference in people's lives.

Get stuck or be practical

get stuck or be practical
By Adi
Are you looking for a job yet your credentials doesn’t match with the qualifications of the positions that companies that are currently looking for? Well, you’re not alone, because there are millions of people out there who are experiencing the same thing. If you are currently employed, are you one of those who are tired of their current jobs and feel that they are not growing and earning enough in their current careers? If that is so, why don’t you consider becoming a medical assistant? A lot of people have made their quick turns towards a medical assistant career and went abroad to land on a better paying job. Perhaps just like me, you’ve also noticed the growing numbers of medical assistant schools in your local area, or whatever country you are in right now. The reason behind that is pretty obvious, it’s the hot item in the labor industry right now. The need for medical assistants in the whole world is becoming higher and higher. So with the increasing demand, there is more room for employment. So why get stuck or be jobless? Why not get a proper education that would be a stepping stone towards a better career and life? Many kids don’t realize this situation right now, they just take their courses because it’s what they want, without thinking if they would land on a job right after graduating. I think it’s still better to be practical, after all, when you have enough money, you can take whatever course you want afterwards.

medical assistant training programs online for medical assistants

Choosing a right career is a huge task and you must think a thousand times before deciding because your future will depend on it.Once you look for a job,employers are looking for someone who have lots of experience already with the chosen field.There are lots of school who offers training but sometimes you find a hard time on your schedules due to some personal activities.Getting a medical course is such a very big responsibility.You must be able to complete all necessary subjects before you get successful and get a very good job.With medical assistant training,They will help you become a very well trained medical assistant in just few weeks.It is very convenient because you can study at any time you are available and the best thing is you can do this all in your home.They also have support team experts like consulting educators,physicians,nurses and other health care provides who are always available to assist you with all your needs.It is easy as one-two-three,Register,complete online classes and take the exam.Once you pass the exam,A Medical assistant certificate and transcript will be mail in your home…As a medical assistant,you are a professional that performs clinical tasks to keep other co-workers run smoothly. It is accredited,affordable and accessible certificate program for Medical Assistants.They are offering formal training online with nationally accredited and certified medical assistant program.You can take as long as needed.there is no deadlines or time limits to help you become a professional one.Studying with them will help you find the best job that will help you grow professionally.

Medical Assistant School

Medical Assistant
Online medical assistant school review:
Because of high demand for the job, it is very promising to attend on medical career. Many institutes can be found around the internet, and St. Augustine is one of the Medical Assistant School available there. They provide us with a authentic Medical Assistant Certificate Program.They offer an easy way to learn and school, using an Online Medical Assistant training. By attend online classes, take up some medical assistant exam and you will earn the certificate in less than 8 weeks! You wouldn’t find it from another program ever. Hospital or treatment center are desperately finding a medical assistant whose qualified enough to take care the patients. This doesn't mean that newbie and fresh graduate wouldn't have a chance, but for treating a different type of patients one should has a appropriate training to overcome every possible worst case scenario. Mental and intelligence are required for this job, but the power of will and a call for helping other also the most important factor.