How to Become a Medical Administrative Assistant

Medical Administrative Assistants are a crucial part of the medical office team. Do you have what it takes to take on this challenging career?

What Does a Medical Administrative Assistant Do?

Medical Administrative Assistants play a crucial role in the medical office by ensuring the smooth and effective running of the office. They schedule and confirm appointments, communicate messages for medical staff and patients, enter and format electronic medical reports and correspondence, and interview patients in order to complete forms, documents and case histories. They complete insurance and other claims, initiate and maintain confidential medical files and records and prepare financial statements and billing. They also order supplies and maintain inventory, establish office procedures and may, in some cases, supervise and train other staff in procedures and software use. Most importantly, the Medical Administrative Assistant is often the first person of contact between the public and the office, whether by phone or in person, and as such, are responsible for setting the helpful, patient tone for the office.

Is This Career Right For Me?

Medical Administrative Assistants must be extremely organized, able to multi-task throughout a day and have a solid knowledge of the software used in the medical office. They must be friendly and patient and have the deepest respect for patient confidentiality. Medical Administrative Assistants should have a knowledge of medical terminology and have a good communication skills, as they often greet patients and respond to both written and verbal inquiries.

Where Are The Jobs?

Medical Administrative Assistants can be employed in a wide variety of workplace settings, including doctor’s offices, hospitals, medical clinics, public and private insurance companies, health software companies and more. Best of all, the need for qualified Medical Administrative Assistants is always strong and is actually expected to grow in the coming years.

Where Can I Study?

These are just some of the schools that offer Medical Administrative Assistant programs: