Medical assistants play an important role in physicians' offices and clinics by handling both administrative and clinical duties. They are trained to take patient vital signs, medical histories, assist with examinations, perform lab tests, administer medications and injections, and instruct patients on self-care. Medical assisting is a one-to-two year program available at community colleges and accredited institutions, and includes coursework in anatomy, medical terminology, administrative skills, and a required internship. Employment opportunities are excellent and expected to grow rapidly in settings like physicians' offices, hospitals, and specialty practices.

1. Medical Assistants Dona Hensley

2. The Medical Assistant

3. Medical Assistants Backbone of Physicians office Keeps Physicians office and clinics running smoothly Administrative and clinical duties Involves patient contact and care

4. Administrative Duties Update and file patient medical records Answer phone Greet patients Handle correspondence Schedule appointments Arrange for hospital admissions and laboratory services Handling and billing

5. Clinical Duties Take patient vital signs Take patient medical history Prepare patient for examination Assist Physician during exam Collect and perform laboratory specimens Perform basic laboratory tests Dispose of contaminated supplies Sterilize medical instruments Instruct patients on care and medications Administer injections Remove sutures and change dressings

6. Education and Training Junior and Community Colleges Accredited AAMA programs 1 year-certificate or diploma 2 year-associate degree Course training involves anatomy and medical terminology, record keeping, bookkeeping, accounting, and insurance processing Study of laboratory techniques, clinical and diagnostic techniques, pharmaceutical and administering of medications Accredited programs include internship that allows hands on experience

7. On the Job Requirements Good clean hygiene Pleasant smile Positive attitude Empathy for others Good people skills and communication Dependable Adaptable Confidentiality of all Medical information

8. Employment Opportunities Physicians offices Clinics Hospitals Dentist offices Podiatrist Chiropractor Ophthalmologist

9. Work Environment Well-lighted clean environment Constantly interact with people May have to handle several responsibilities at once Holidays off at most jobs Regular 40 hour week Part time or weekends

10. Advancement Office Manager Teaching Health care Continuing education for Nursing or other fields in the medical industry

11. Significant Points About 62 percent work in offices of Physicians Job prospect excellent Employment is projected to grow Much faster than average ranking Medical Assistants the fastest growing occupation over 2006-2016 May 2006 median salary $22,850-$27,340

12. Medical Assistants www.collegeboard.com http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos164htm www. billinman.world.com