Associate in Medical Assisting

Medical assisting includes a number of front and back office duties in the medical field. The Associate of medical assisting degree is of two years duration, during which eighteen months are composed of classes and the concluding two months are devoted to internships. Offered at community schools and junior colleges, the Associate of medical assisting program is designed to introduce individuals to the basics of the rules of medicine and their practical application.

Associate in Medical Assisting Programs

Program Coursework
The Associate of medical assisting teaches students the practical application of medical techniques. It incorporates basic anatomy, x-ray techniques, physical therapy, pharmacology, radiology, basic laboratory procedures and some minor surgical procedure. Also included in the program curriculum are basic principles of patient care, as well as administrative handling of medical infrastructure. Most of the coursework is actually practical training where students are expected to apply medical techniques.

Admission Criteria
You can gain admission into an Associate of medical assisting program if you have a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED). Most of the universities award a degree after completion of eighteen months coursework and two months internship. During the internship students are expected to acquire on the job experience of patient handling and managing extensive paperwork.

Careers in Medical Assisting
Medical assisting is a broad field where an Associate of medical assisting degree can get you employment in hospitals, private clinics, long-term care centers and educational institutions. Graduates can also find assistant-level jobs in private practice. The average income for a medical assistant is roughly $28,000.