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.
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
Byran College (Springfield)
800/397-1894
Metro Business College - Cape Girardeau
800/467-0785
Metro Business College - Jefferson City
800/467-0786
Metro Business College - Rolla
800/978-7705
North Central Missouri College (Trenton)
800/880-6180
Springfield College
413/748-3000
Vatterott College-Springfield
417/831-8116
Vatterott College-St. Joseph
816/364-5399
Professional Associations
National
American Association of Medical Assistants
State
Missouri State Society of Medical Assistants
