According to the current laws, in the majority of states, an MA is not obliged to have finished a medical assisting course or gained experience after finishing a medical assisting training course, so as to be allowed to work in the field.
However, you need to bear in mind the fact that the majority of employers would prefer to hire those with experience.
If you are an MA without experience, you can also find jobs within the industry and we gathered the data you should know about it to make it easy for you to get a new position.
Obtain Credentials
First and foremost, to become an MA, you must obtain the essential credentials, which are determined by the state.
These involve a high school diploma, or GED equivalent, which are required if you wish to be hired as a medical assistant.
Our suggestion is always a successful completion of an accredited medical assisting program.
Even though this post-secondary education is not required by most states, it is better to gain it.
There will be some employers who will require that you, as the MA, possess a current CPR card.
You can look for CPR courses through organizations such as the AHA (American Heart Association) or Red Cross.
You may come across employers who require BLS, basic life support, certification as well which can be achieved at local medical or can also be found on-line.
Complete an Externship
If you want to gain clinical experience before you look for the first job, you can participate in an MA externship.
During this externship, you will be given a chance to see what kind of duties you will have and what requirements you will have once you start working as an MA.
You will learn from experienced MA all the skills you will need to work as a successful medical assistant.
It is possible to find an externship if you contact local physician practices, clinics, and hospitals that are willing to accept an inexperienced individual.
Entry Level Position
An MA without previous experience should enter the company at an entry-level position.
Of course, you will always have options for advancement if you prove to be excellent in your job.
Some employers accept to hire those lacking experience who will work in the front of the office, do some clerical duties or assist an experienced MA.
Volunteer
In case you cannot reach any of the above-mentioned options, you are suggested to volunteer with a local physician’s practice, hospital, or clinic.
It is true that you will not get money for your work, but you will benefit from experienced people working in that facility.
You should contact local health care facilities to see if they accept volunteers.
Have in mind that you will not be allowed to perform actual patient care or assist physicians directly as a volunteer, but you can learn a lot by simply observing and taking notes.
