How Medical Assistant Programs in NY Prepare You for A New Career

If you’re looking for a way into the growing – and lucrative – field of healthcare, there’s never been a better time.  Due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, medical professionals of all types are in high demand.  This includes medical assistants, which is an achievable role to obtain.  You don’t need to go to school for years and years and take out a load of debt.  Medical assistant programs in NY can help you qualify, potentially in less than a year!

What Does A Medical Assistant Do?

Medical assistants are well-rounded professionals who support doctors, nurses, and other healthcare personnel in their day-to-day jobs.  This typically includes clinical and administrative functions.  Several other duties may be involved.  This can include light medical work or handling of fluids.

For example, a medical assistant may be called on to:

• Answer telephones
• Schedule appointments
• Arrange for lab tests and other outsourced services
• Fill out billing or insurance forms
• Authorize prescription refills
• Assist during patient examinations
• Change patient wound dressings
• Remove sutures (stitches)
• Take patient vitals (temperature, blood pressure, etc.)
• Draw blood or collect other specimens
• Explain medical procedures to patients

It’s a varied and exciting job role, where every day may bring a new challenge.

How Can You Become A Medical Assistant?

The good news is, it’s easier than ever to become a medical assistant.  Numerous certified medical assistant programs in NY exist that can help you obtain the necessary licenses.

To become a medical assistant in New York, you need to have a high school diploma or GED. Then you need to enroll in a certified medical assistant program.  Depending on the program, its coursework, and your available time, training can be as short as 9 months or as long as 2 years.  In addition, you will need to complete an externship (apprenticeship) at a qualified medical facility, for a certain number of hours.

Once this is done, you will be prepared to successfully complete a medical assistant examination to become fully certified. This credential can make you more competitive when you start looking for a new job, but it is not a requirement to become a medical assistant in New York.

Start A Medical Assistant Program in NY Today

Westchester School for Dental Assistants offers top-quality medical assistant training programs at reasonable, affordable prices.  Financial aid support may be possible.  Click here to learn more about our programs.