Formal vocational education and training are NOT always required to become a qualified medical assistant. Medical assistant training is either provided through a vocational training program, or directly on the job under the supervision of a medical doctor, but many opt to go back to school and earn their certificates, diplomas, and degrees via classroom instruction. Medical assistant training can take place in one of the following types of settings: In a secondary, postsecondary, or adult education program offered at Community Colleges and private post-secondary Vocational Training Institutions across the country. If the institution is properly accredited and approved graduates may sit for the national certification exams. Under a licensed medical doctor on the job, or in some instances under a registered nurse, licensed vocational nurse, or physician assistant (PA). The supervising licensed health care professional is directly responsible for determining the content of the training and the proficiency of the medical assistant in training, however, lacking formal documented training medical assistants trained on the job may not always qualify to sit for nationally recognized medical assistant certification exams. Online, via self-study and distance education. If the course is accredited and approved by the Department of Education or CAAHEP graduates may sit for the national certification exams. The physician, or licensed health care practitioner in charge must then determine the skill level and capabilities of the medical assistant trained online. From Novice To Expert Where does the road begin? Many medical assistant students enrolled in programs falsely believe that the road to success doesn’t start until they get to their first […]