Medical assistants are in high demand, and the opportunities for career advancement are many. With further education or on the job training, a certified medical assistant can transition into a number of related disciplines. At the start of a career, assistants most often are employed in physician's offices, clinics and urgent cares. Job duties may include phlebotomy, taking patient histories, taking and recording vital signs, giving injections, billing and coding as well as various clerical duties. Those who choose to further careers with cross training and additional academic courses will discover vast opportunities within the medical field.
Cross training as a way to transition into higher paying jobs is very common among allied health care professionals. Further education can lead to careers as an R.N., physical therapy assistant, medical records specialist, home health aide or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). All of these professions build upon the education received in a medical assisting program; therefore, it can be considered a stepping stone into advanced career opportunities.
Registered Nurses
Registered nurses are employed in hospitals, clinics, urgent cares, and specialized facilities. Many technical colleges offer programs called Medical Assistant to R.N. programs. Students first achieve certification as an assistant, and then advance through the curriculum to complete the nursing program.
Medical Records Technicians
Records technicians are often responsible for making sure that patients' records are accurate and in order. While they do not provide patient care, they are required to be knowledgeable about the care that has been provided, as well as be proficient in medical terminology, billing, coding and transcription.
Home Health Aides
Home health aides typically work under the supervision of a registered nurse and carry out the specific home health care plan for patients as prescribed by a physician. Home health care aides must complete a four to six week curriculum to be eligible for certification in this specialized allied health career.
Physical Therapy Assistant
Physical therapy assistants often work in the therapeutic departments of hospitals, doctors' offices, sports clinics and physical therapy offices. Knowledge of ROM exercises, heat and cold therapies, ambulation and therapy techniques is required for this profession.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN), also known as Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN) are directly involved with patient care, most often in hospital settings, nursing homes, clinics, private homes and group homes. Additional education beyond the certified assisting program as well as licensing is required to work as an LPN.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://www.home-business-source.com/articles/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites
