For example, if you eventually want to work in another healthcare field, you might wish to get an associate’s or bachelor’s degree before taking your exam.
This lays the groundwork for future research.
However, if you want to enter the workforce quickly, you might pick a different type of certificate program that is more streamlined.
Certificates can be obtained at technical or vocational schools and online.
There are even hybrid programs that combine classroom and online learning.
Consider the types of courses available as well – while most medical assistants perform a wide range of jobs, some programs allow you to specialize in a single area, such as administration or patient care.
The administrative specialty will involve medical billing, insurance, and general customer service coursework, whereas a patient care field of study will stress skills such as medical terminology, EKG, anatomy, and phlebotomy.
You can also choose to specialize in a specific discipline, such as ophthalmology, obstetrics, or podiatry.
To gain clinical experience, most training programs will involve some form of training or externship.
If you can take the burden, you might also look for an entry-level position to help you gain clinical experience while you study.
Look for jobs in doctor’s offices, clinics, and hospitals.
