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Although medical assistant training is not a requirement if you want to work in the field, many physicians prefer to hire assistants who have work experience in a physician’s office or clinic.
However, there are also positions for entry-level medical assistants who are willing to learn.
In this article, we will provide you with a few useful tips on how to find employment as a medical assistant with no prior experience.
Article Table of Contents
Earn Your Credentials
If you want to find employment as a medical assistant, you must first obtain the credentials that are required in the state where you want to practice.
This usually means that you need a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
Completing an accredited medical assisting training program is not a requirement in most states, but can be quite helpful.
Some employers may also ask for a CPR card.
CPR courses are available through organizations such as the American Heart Association or Red Cross.
Basic Life Support (BLS) courses may also be required by some employers and these can also be completed online or at local schools that offer medical assisting or related training programs.
Complete an Externship
Medical assistants with no prior experience can start their career through an MA externship or a job-shadowing program.
This will provide you with some experience that will look good on your resume and will give you the opportunity to learn first-hand from experienced medical assistants.
You can find an externship opportunity by contacting local physician practices, clinics, and hospitals.
Apply For An Entry-Level Position
If you don’t have any experience in the field you can try to apply for an entry-level position.
Even if employers prefer to hire an experienced medical assistant they may be willing to offer you an entry-level position that will involve working at the front desk, completing clerical duties, or assisting an experienced MA.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the lowest 10 percent of all medical assistants earned less than $25,820 per year but you will start earning more after gaining some experience in the field.
If you’re a hard-working person who’s willing to learn, your employer may provide you with additional training and advancement opportunities.
Volunteer
If an externship is not available in your area, inexperienced medical assistants may choose to volunteer in a local physician’s office, hospital, clinic, or another healthcare facility.
Even if you may not be allowed to work directly with patients and perform actual treatments, you will get the chance to observe experienced medical assistants and learn from them.
In conclusion, as an inexperienced medical assistant, there are many great ways to learn the ins and outs of this profession; such as externships, entry-level positions, or volunteer opportunities.
Read the full guide: How to Become a Medical Assistant