Medical Assistant
Career Description
Medical assistants help doctors by performing various clinical and administrative duties that may involve telephone monitoring, patient record organization, appointment scheduling, billing and bookkeeping. Some common clinical assignments include taking vital signs; performing basic laboratory tests; disposing of, or sterilizing, laboratory supplies; drawing blood; or preparing patients for physicians. Medical assistants can be employed in the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors and optometrists.
Annual Salary
| Entry: $21,195 | Mean: $26,374 | Experienced: $31,803 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Hourly Wage
| Entry: $10.19 | Mean: $12.68 | Experienced: $15.29 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Academic Requirements
A high school diploma is sufficient to gain employment as a medical assistant, with on-the-job training occurring. Programs also are offered at vocational and technical schools, community or junior colleges and universities.
Schools
Concorde Career College
816/531-5223
Colorado Technical University North Kansas City
816/472-7400
Heritage College
816/942-5474
High Tech Institute
866/502-2627
Pinnacle Career Institute
816/331-5700
Vatterott College
816/861-1000
Wright Business College
800/555-4003
Professional Associations
National
American Association of Medical Assistants
State
Missouri State Society of Medical Assistants
