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Medical Assistant Career Paths & Advancement for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

There are approximately 119,800 job openings for medical assistants each year — from physician offices and hospitals to outpatient care centers (BLS, 2024). Suffice to say, demand for these unsung healthcare professionals isn't going anywhere. But while the role is often seen as a starting point in healthcare, it's far more than just a stepping stone — it's a gateway to a diverse range of long-term career opportunities.

In 2025, the landscape for medical assistants is evolving rapidly. With changes in healthcare delivery, growing patient populations, and increased reliance on support staff, medical assistants are taking on more responsibility and expanding their skill sets. Whether you're passionate about clinical care, interested in healthcare administration, or eager to specialize in areas like phlebotomy, EKG, or medical billing, the path forward is wide open.

In this guide, I will dive into the many directions your medical assistant career can take you, from advancement opportunities and certification options to how you can position yourself for growth in a competitive healthcare market.

What are the benefits of pursuing a medical assistant career?

  • The demand for medical assistants is on the rise, with job growth expected to increase by 15% between 2023 and 2033 — a rate that far outpaces the average for most other professions (BLS, 2024).
  • A medical assistant’s salary can go as high as $72,002 (ZipRecruiter, n.d.).
  • Medical assistants can work in diverse environments, from primary care offices to urgent care centers, outpatient clinics, and even specialty practices like dermatology or pediatrics.

Table of Contents

  1. What key duties will you have if you pursue a medical assistant career?
  2. What skills do you need to have a successful medical assistant career?
  3. What role does experience play in advancing your medical assistant career?
  4. What are the best leadership development options to advance your medical assistant career?
  5. What certifications do I need to obtain to advance my medical assistant career?
  6. Which technologies should you know about if you're advancing your medical assistant career?
  7. How do you transition to a medical assistant instructor role?
  8. How can a medical assistant career lead to healthcare administration roles?
  9. Can advanced specialized training accelerate your career progression?
  10. How can an advanced degree in public health elevate your medical assistant career?
  11. What’s the path from a medical assistant career to a nursing role?
  12. Can Interdisciplinary Education Expand Your Medical Assistant Career Opportunities?
  13. How Can Advanced Education and Certifications Enhance Your Long-term Earnings and Career Security?
  14. Which key trends should you watch out if you're advancing your medical assistant career?
  15. Other Things You Need to Know About Advancing Your Medical Assistant Career

What key duties will you have if you pursue a medical assistant career?

With over 783,900 medical assistants currently working across the US, it’s clear that this role plays a vital part in the healthcare system. They are the backbone of many clinics and care facilities — bridging the gap between administrative operations and direct patient care. Whether you're working at the front desk or assisting during procedures, your day-to-day responsibilities can vary depending on your work setting. 

Here are some of the most common duties you can expect:

  • Patient Intake: Collecting vital signs, medical history, and preparing patients for exams.
  • Clinical Assistance: Supporting physicians during exams, administering medications, or performing basic lab tests.
  • Administrative Tasks: Scheduling appointments, answering phones, and managing patient records.
  • Insurance and Billing: Handling insurance forms, verifying coverage, and processing billing information.
  • Medical Coding: Using standardized codes for diagnoses and procedures to ensure accurate billing and record-keeping.
  • Inventory Management: Ordering and organizing medical supplies to keep the practice running smoothly.
  • Patient Education: Providing guidance on medications, follow-up care, or wellness tips as directed by a physician.

What skills do you need to have a successful medical assistant career?

Being a medical assistant means wearing many hats — sometimes all in the same hour. One moment you’re comforting a nervous patient, the next you’re updating electronic health records or assisting with a clinical procedure. It’s a role that demands versatility, heart, and a sharp set of skills. 

Here’s a breakdown of the core abilities that set successful medical assistants apart — and help them thrive in one of healthcare’s most dynamic roles:

  • Clinical and Technical Skills: Understanding medical terminology, procedures, and the ability to perform tasks like taking vital signs, administering injections, and assisting with exams is essential for daily tasks in patient care.
  • Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in healthcare to avoid errors. Whether it’s accurately documenting patient information, following protocols, or administering medication, attention to detail ensures safety and quality care.
  • Strong Communication Skills: As a point of contact between patients and healthcare providers, clear and compassionate communication is key. You need to explain instructions, ease patient concerns, and collaborate effectively with the medical team.
  • Multitasking: Healthcare environments are fast-paced. Being able to handle multiple responsibilities, like assisting patients and managing administrative duties, while maintaining efficiency is crucial for success.
  • Record-Keeping: Managing patient records, appointments, and medical supplies efficiently is a key responsibility. Accurate documentation is essential for billing, regulatory compliance, and patient care continuity.
  • Empathy and Patient Care: Showing compassion and understanding toward patients helps build trust and comfort, especially when they are experiencing stress or illness. This emotional intelligence is vital for patient satisfaction and care quality.
  • Problem-Solving Ability: Healthcare settings often present unpredictable challenges. Whether resolving scheduling issues or handling patient concerns, being resourceful and thinking critically will help you address problems as they arise.
  • Knowledge of Healthcare Regulations and Compliance: Familiarity with healthcare laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and medical billing codes is essential. Ensuring that the practice remains compliant with legal standards is a critical aspect of the role.
  • Adaptability and Willingness to Learn: The healthcare field is ever-evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and protocols emerging regularly. A willingness to learn and adapt ensures you stay current and can continue to excel.
  • Technical Proficiency with Healthcare Tools: As digital tools become more prevalent, proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems, scheduling software, and other office technologies is vital for maintaining smooth operations and enhancing productivity.

Mastering these skills will position you for a rewarding and successful career as a medical assistant, where you can make a real impact on patient care and the overall healthcare process. If you’re interested in broadening your horizon while still maintaining financial stability, check out our list of the highest paying medical jobs with 2 year degree and see which career pathway fits.

What role does experience play in advancing your medical assistant career?

Experience is more than just time on the clock — it’s the foundation for growth, trust, and higher earning potential in your medical assistant journey. As you move from your first year into more seasoned roles, you not only gain confidence and clinical precision but also see a gradual rise in compensation. 

For your visual reference, I’ve created the chart below to illustrate your salary's trajectory through experience. Entry-level certified medical assistants typically start around $39,000, but just a couple of years can bring a noticeable increase. With 2 to 4 years under your belt, you’re likely to earn over $40,000, and seasoned professionals with 8+ years of experience can expect to push even higher. For comparison, explore our other wage guides — like our article on triage nurse salary — to gain insight into how career growth and compensation vary across different roles in healthcare. It’s a helpful way to understand your options and plan your professional path with clarity.

What are the best leadership development options to advance your medical assistant career?

With an average salary of $41,370 annually (ZipRecruiter, n.d.), medical assistants in the US are already in a solid position within the healthcare industry — but there’s plenty of room to grow. For those looking to move beyond entry-level responsibilities and increase both their income and influence, leadership development is key. Advancing into supervisory, administrative, or specialized roles not only boosts your earning potential but also allows you to play a more strategic role in patient care and clinical operations. 

Here are some of the best ways to develop your leadership skills and take your medical assistant career to the next level:

  • Pursue Advanced Certifications: Earning certifications beyond the basic Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) can position you for more responsibility. Consider credentials like Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), or even a specialty certification in areas like phlebotomy, EKG, or patient care coordination.
  • Enroll in Healthcare Management and Administration Courses: Leadership roles often require a solid understanding of operations and team management. Short courses or associate degree programs in healthcare management and medical office administration can be valuable if you want to prepare for supervisory duties. For a more comprehensive breakdown, check out our healthcare management vs healthcare administration comparison guide.
  • Seek Mentorship or Shadowing Opportunities: Learning from those already in leadership roles can give you practical insights into how they manage teams, make decisions, and navigate challenges. Ask to shadow a practice manager, lead MA, or clinical coordinator in your organization.
  • Volunteer for More Responsibility: Within your current role, look for ways to lead. This could include training new hires, managing schedules, or taking charge of supply inventory. Demonstrating initiative is a clear signal that you're ready to lead.
  • Attend Workshops and Conferences: Professional development events are a great way to build leadership skills, stay current on industry trends, and connect with others who’ve advanced in their MA careers. Many organizations, such as the AAMA, offer annual conferences and workshops geared toward career growth.

Taking deliberate steps to build your leadership capacity not only enhances your career trajectory but also increases your value to employers. With healthcare systems relying more than ever on strong team leaders, now is a great time to elevate your role and lead with confidence.

medical assistant salary

What certifications do I need to obtain to advance my medical assistant career?

Certifications are one of the fastest ways to boost your credibility, open up new opportunities, and command a higher salary as a medical assistant. While you can start your career with basic training, earning professional certifications shows employers that you have advanced skills and a serious commitment to the field. Medical assistant certification requirements will depend on what areas you want to specialize in and concentrate on.

In the table below, I’ve outlined the certifications you need to consider—such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), and Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)—including their exam fees and purpose. Each serves to enhance your expertise in clinical or administrative tasks and helps set you apart in a competitive job market.

For a more comprehensive comparison, you can also check out or guide on how much do certified nursing assistants make so you can better understand how different certifications impact salary growth and career advancement across healthcare professions.

Overview of Medical Assistant Certifications: Exam Fees & Purposes

Certification
Exam Fee
Purpose
Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)
$370-$495
Demonstrates proficiency in both clinical and administrative duties in healthcare settings.
Registered Medical Assistant (RMA)
$150
Signifies that a MA has met the standards set by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), offering recognition of competence in various healthcare tasks and roles.
Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
$200
Focuses on the clinical skills required in patient care, including assisting with exams, drawing blood, and administering medications.
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
$129
Highlights expertise in managing the administrative side of healthcare, such as patient scheduling, billing, and coding.
Nationally Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA)
$119
Validates the knowledge and skills of medical assistants across clinical and administrative domains.

Sources: IMA, n.d.; NPA, n.d.; NHA, n.d.

Which technologies should you know about if you're advancing your medical assistant career?

As the healthcare industry becomes increasingly digital, staying up-to-date with new technologies is critical for medical assistants who want to advance their careers. With the demand for medical assistants growing at a rate of 15% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS, 2024), mastering a variety of tools not only boosts your efficiency but also positions you as a valuable asset in any clinical or administrative setting. 

Here are some essential technologies you should become familiar with:

  • Electronic Health Records (EHR) Systems: EHR platforms like Epic and Athenahealth are now the backbone of patient information management. Being skilled in navigating, updating, and troubleshooting EHR systems can significantly boost your job performance.
  • Practice Management Software: Tools like Tebra and AdvancedMD help manage day-to-day operations, from scheduling and billing to patient communications. Understanding how to use these platforms shows you can contribute to a smoother, more organized practice.
  • Telehealth Platforms: With telemedicine becoming a standard offering, being able to assist providers and patients in setting up and troubleshooting video consultations is a key skill.
  • Medical Billing and Coding Software: Programs like 3M CodeFinder and AdvancedMD’s billing modules are crucial for processing insurance claims and patient invoices accurately, reducing errors that could cost a practice time and money.
  • Diagnostic and Monitoring Tools: Familiarity with digital blood pressure monitors, EKG machines, and other modern diagnostic tools will enhance your clinical skills and improve patient care.
  • Patient Portals: Helping patients access lab results, schedule appointments, and communicate securely through online portals can improve patient satisfaction and demonstrates your tech-savvy support skills.

By investing time in learning these technologies, you’ll not only make your daily responsibilities easier but also stand out for promotions, specialized roles, or leadership opportunities. In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, being tech-proficient is no longer optional — it’s a career accelerator.

medical assistant demand

How do you transition to a medical assistant instructor role?

Transitioning into a medical assistant instructor role offers a unique opportunity to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals while advancing your own career. If you’re ready to pass on your expertise and inspire future MAs, here’s what you need to know to make a smooth and successful shift into teaching.

  • Gain Clinical Experience: Most institutions require at least three to five years of hands-on experience as a medical assistant in a clinical setting. Your real-world expertise helps you teach practical skills effectively.
  • Obtain Necessary Certifications: Hold certifications like Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Registered Medical Assistant (RMA), or Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). Specialized certifications in areas like EKG or phlebotomy may also boost your qualifications. You can read up on the difference between phlebotomist and medical assistant so you can decide whether this is the right certification route for you.
  • Fulfill Educational Requirements: While not always required, an associate or bachelor’s degree in a healthcare field or education is often preferred and can expand your teaching opportunities.
  • Gain Teaching Experience: Explore tutoring, mentoring, or working as an adjunct instructor to build your teaching foundation. Some programs offer train-the-trainer workshops to help you prepare.
  • Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay up-to-date on industry trends and teaching strategies. Being knowledgeable about current technologies and best practices ensures you're providing students with the most relevant education.

With the right blend of experience, certifications, education, and teaching skills, transitioning to an MA instructor role can be a rewarding next step in your healthcare career. You may also explore our guide on how to become an educational consultant so you can expand your influence from healthcare to the education sector and explore additional career pathways.

How can a medical assistant career lead to healthcare administration roles?

Starting your career as a medical assistant provides you with valuable experience in the healthcare field, but it can also open doors to higher-level roles in healthcare administration. As an MA, you already have foundational knowledge of healthcare operations, patient care, and medical procedures, all of which are critical in administrative positions. Having access to career growth opportunities is one of the benefits of being a medical assistant.

Here’s how you can leverage your MA experience to move into administrative roles:

  • Capitalize on Your Healthcare Operations Expertise: As a medical assistant, you’re exposed to various aspects of a medical practice or hospital, from scheduling appointments to managing patient records. This foundational knowledge provides a solid base for administrative roles like office manager or healthcare coordinator.
  • Gain Experience with Medical Billing and Coding: Many medical assistants gain experience in medical billing, coding, and insurance processes. These skills are highly transferable to roles in healthcare administration, such as a medical office administrator or health services manager, where managing revenue cycle processes is crucial.
  • Take on Leadership Duties: In your role as an MA, you may take on leadership tasks such as managing a small team or supervising interns. These experiences can prepare you for managerial positions in healthcare administration, such as office supervisor or practice manager.
  • Hone Your Organizational Skills: The fast-paced nature of working as a medical assistant teaches you how to multitask, prioritize, and maintain accuracy. These organizational skills are highly valued in healthcare administration roles, which require efficient management of both people and resources.
  • Expand Your Professional Network: Working in a clinical setting allows you to connect with physicians, nurses, and administrators, providing opportunities to build relationships that can help you transition into administrative roles. Seeking mentorship and networking within your organization can open doors to higher positions.
  • Pursue Further Education: If you’ve been asking yourself, what can you do with a master's degree in healthcare administration? Choosing this path might be the answer. In fact, many MAs pursue advanced degrees in healthcare administration to move into higher-level roles, such as hospital administrator, healthcare operations manager, or health services director,

With your clinical knowledge, leadership abilities, and growing administrative skills, a career in healthcare administration can be a natural progression for an experienced medical assistant. By taking proactive steps toward education and professional growth, you can climb the ladder to become a healthcare manager or executive.

Can advanced specialized training accelerate your career progression?

Pursuing further specialized education in areas such as medical billing and coding can significantly expand your career prospects. Targeted programs provide industry-recognized credentials and deepen your understanding of healthcare workflows, enhancing both clinical and administrative expertise. For instance, enrolling in courses offered by coding schools online can equip you with the technical skills required to bridge the gap between direct patient care and managerial responsibilities. Evaluate program outcomes, accreditation status, and curriculum relevance to ensure that your educational investment aligns with your long-term professional goals.

How can an advanced degree in public health elevate your medical assistant career?

Advancing your education with a public health degree can expand your expertise in epidemiology, health policy, and community health management, thereby opening up new leadership and administrative roles. This specialized training integrates practical clinical skills with strategic thinking about population health, enabling you to design better care protocols and influence systemic change. For working professionals balancing education and career, reputable online programs not only offer flexibility but also provide cost-effective options; consider exploring the cheapest online MPH programs to further evaluate this pathway.

What’s the path from a medical assistant career to a nursing role?

If you’re a medical assistant looking to transition into a nursing career, you already have a solid head start. Your hands-on experience in patient care, clinical procedures, and medical terminology provides a solid foundation for nursing education and practice.

Here’s how you can make the transition from an MA to a nurse:

  • Leverage Your Clinical Experience: As an MA, you’ve gained valuable experience working with patients, administering basic care, and interacting with healthcare professionals. Your experience with medical assistant clinical duties can make the transition smoother, as you’re already familiar with many of the basic responsibilities nurses undertake.
  • Explore Nursing Programs: To become a nurse, you’ll need to enroll in a nursing program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Many schools offer programs tailored to individuals with healthcare experience, such as accelerated nursing programs or bridge programs specifically for MAs.
  • Consider a Bridge Program: If you already hold a nursing assistant certification or are an experienced MA, some nursing schools offer bridge programs that allow you to bypass certain courses and fast-track your education. These programs often recognize your previous healthcare experience, which can shorten the time it takes to become a registered nurse.
  • Obtain Nursing Prerequisites: Before entering a nursing program, you may need to complete prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry. If you haven’t taken these courses as an MA, many schools offer flexible scheduling options, such as evening or online classes, to fit your needs.
  • Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam: After completing a nursing program, you’ll need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). This exam assesses your ability to provide safe and effective care across various healthcare settings and is a critical step in becoming a licensed nurse.
  • Gain Experience in Nursing: Once you’ve passed the NCLEX-RN and earned your nursing license, you can begin working as a registered nurse (RN). Many MAs who transition into nursing start with entry-level RN positions in hospitals or clinics, where they can build upon their experience and specialize in areas such as pediatrics, emergency care, or geriatrics.
  • Consider Advanced Nursing Roles: After gaining nursing experience, you may choose to specialize further by pursuing advanced degrees, such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Specializations like nurse practitioner (NP) or nurse anesthetist (CRNA) are also great options for those looking to advance their careers in nursing.

By following these steps, you can make the transition from a medical assistant to a nurse and enjoy the added responsibilities, higher salary potential, and expanded opportunities in healthcare. Your background as an MA gives you a valuable perspective, making the nursing career path not only achievable but also rewarding. 

Can Interdisciplinary Education Expand Your Medical Assistant Career Opportunities?

Integrating interdisciplinary education into your career strategy can offer a competitive edge. Expanding your expertise with targeted coursework, such as completing an accelerated online degree in biology, deepens your understanding of vital scientific concepts that complement clinical skills. This broadened knowledge base supports enhanced diagnostic insights, promotes innovative problem solving in patient care, and facilitates effective collaboration with diverse healthcare teams.

How Can Advanced Education and Certifications Enhance Your Long-term Earnings and Career Security?

Investing in further education and specialized training can yield significant financial and professional benefits by opening doors to elevated roles that demand both clinical expertise and managerial acumen. Enhanced credentials not only broaden your skill set but also strengthen your candidacy for leadership positions, which often come with higher salary ranges and improved job security. Such career advancements are reflected in opportunities like top paying healthcare administration jobs, where the blend of practical experience and advanced qualifications is highly valued by employers. Evaluating accredited programs that offer industry-recognized certifications can help streamline your progression into roles that provide both stability and long-term financial rewards.

Which key trends should you watch out if you're advancing your medical assistant career?

As the healthcare industry evolves, so too do the roles and responsibilities of medical assistants. Staying on top of key trends and technological advancements is critical for anyone looking to succeed in this dynamic field. 

Here are some essential trends shaping the future of medical assisting:

  • Robot Assistants Taking Over Routine Hospital Tasks: Lancaster General Hospital (LGH) introduces two robot assistants, Roxy and Rosie, to do routine tasks such as the pickup and delivery of healthcare supplies. This initiative allows nurses and MAs to focus more on patient care by reducing the time spent on administrative duties. The robots navigate autonomously through the hospital, including using elevators, and are equipped to handle various items securely. This partnership with Diligent Robotics marks LGH as the first hospital in the Penn Medicine system and in Pennsylvania to integrate these robotic assistants into its operations.
  • The Launch of Microsoft Dragon Copilot: Tools powered by AI are helping medical assistants with everything from monitoring patient health to improving administrative processes. One of the key innovations is Microsoft Dragon Copilot, an AI assistant designed specifically for clinical workflows. Combining natural language voice dictation with ambient listening and fine-tuned generative AI, Dragon Copilot offers a seamless integration into healthcare settings, enhancing the efficiency of both providers and medical assistants. It assists medical assistants by automating routine tasks like documentation, improving accuracy, and reducing administrative burden (Microsoft News, 2025).
  • The Surge of Wearable Health Devices: The wearable medical devices market is experiencing significant growth, with projections indicating a rise from USD 51.26 billion in 2024 to approximately USD 313.46 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.40% (Newstrail, 2025). These devices enable continuous tracking of vital signs such as heart rate, blood glucose levels, and sleep patterns, facilitating proactive care and early detection of potential health issues. For MAs, proficiency in utilizing wearable health devices is becoming essential, as they play a pivotal role in interpreting data, assisting patients in understanding their health metrics, and integrating this information into comprehensive care plans.
  • The Limitations of Telehealth Medicine in Addressing Hypertension: While telehealth offers convenience and accessibility for patients managing hypertension, it presents challenges in monitoring blood pressure accurately and consistently. According to the CDC (n.d.), hypertension often requires in-person visits to ensure proper diagnostic procedures, like accurate blood pressure measurements and personalized assessments. MAs are advised to be vigilant in monitoring patient data remotely, educating patients on proper at-home blood pressure measurement techniques, and recognizing when an in-person evaluation is necessary to ensure comprehensive hypertension management.
  • Blockchain Enhances Electronic Health Records for MAs: A systematic literature review analyzed over 600 studies on the integration of blockchain into EHRs. The findings suggest that blockchain can improve the security, privacy, and transparency of health data, benefiting medical assistants who are responsible for managing and accessing patient records. This technology ensures that data is tamper-proof and accessible only to authorized individuals, streamlining workflows and reducing the risk of errors or data breaches (Wiley Online Library, n.d.).

Here’s What Medical Assistants Have to Say About Advancing Their Careers for 2025

  • "Becoming a Certified Medical Assistant was the turning point in my career. It gave me the skills and confidence to transition from routine administrative tasks to leadership roles, where I now manage a team. The certification opened doors to opportunities I never thought possible, and the personal growth has been incredibly rewarding!"Portia
  • "After earning my CCMA certification, I was able to specialize in clinical work and build stronger relationships with patients, which brought a new level of fulfillment to my career. Not only did I see an increase in my salary, but I also gained job stability and a deeper sense of purpose in my role. I truly feel more valued and confident in my position now."Laurence
  • "Advancing to a medical assistant instructor role was a dream come true for me. I’m passionate about teaching the next generation of medical professionals while utilizing my years of experience in the field. Watching my students succeed and knowing I helped shape their careers has been an incredibly fulfilling part of my journey."Josef

Key Findings

  • There are over 783,900 medical assistants currently working across the US.
  • Entry-level Certified Medical Assistants start around $39,000, with earnings rising to over $40,000 after 2-4 years.
  • With an average salary of $41,370 annually, medical assistants in the US are already in a solid position within the healthcare industry.
  • The demand for medical assistants is growing at a rate of 15% from 2023 to 2033.
  • There are approximately 119,800 job openings for medical assistants each year.

Other Things You Need to Know About Advancing Your Medical Assistant Career

What does a clinical medical assistant do vs. an administrative medical assistant?

A clinical medical assistant (CMA) primarily works in patient care, assisting with procedures, taking vital signs, performing lab tests, and helping with patient history. Their role focuses on the clinical side of healthcare, directly supporting physicians during examinations and treatments.

An administrative medical assistant (AMA), on the other hand, handles the clerical aspects of healthcare. This includes managing patient records, scheduling appointments, billing, coding, and insurance verification. They are more focused on office management, ensuring smooth operations within healthcare settings.

How can a medical assistant move into a supervisory position?

To move into a supervisory position, a medical assistant can pursue additional education and certifications, such as a leadership or management training program. Gaining experience in different areas of healthcare, excelling in current roles, and demonstrating strong communication and organizational skills can help. Networking, building a reputation for reliability, and seeking mentorship from senior leaders can also open the door to supervisory roles.

Which industries are hiring the most medical assistants?

The demand for medical assistants is high across various sectors, each offering unique opportunities for career advancement. Here are five industries where medical assistants are particularly in demand:

  • Healthcare settings: Hospitals, outpatient care centers, and physician’s offices are the primary industries hiring medical assistants to provide both clinical and administrative support.
  • Urgent care centers: As urgent care becomes more popular for immediate healthcare needs, these centers are hiring medical assistants to support patient care and administrative tasks.
  • Specialty clinics: Medical assistants are essential in specialized fields such as dermatology, cardiology, and pediatrics, where they provide vital support in both clinical and administrative functions.
  • Telehealth companies: The expansion of telehealth services has created a need for medical assistants to manage virtual consultations, assist with patient data, and provide administrative support remotely.
  • Long-term care facilities: Nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living facilities are increasingly hiring medical assistants to help with patient care and manage administrative tasks for the elderly and those in long-term care.

Can a medical assistant work remotely or in telehealth settings?

Yes, medical assistants can work remotely or in telehealth settings, although their roles may differ from traditional in-person positions. In telehealth, MAs might help with virtual consultations by assisting patients in setting up appointments, handling patient data, or even managing administrative tasks remotely. However, clinical tasks, such as performing physical exams or administering injections, typically require in-person interactions. The remote opportunities are usually focused on administrative roles within telehealth platforms or health information management.

References:

  • AdvancedMD. (n.d.). Medical office software. Advancedmd.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025, from
  • American Allied Health. (n.d.). Certified Medical Admin Assistant (CMAA). Americanalliedhealth.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • American Medical Technologists. (n.d.). Medical Assistant. Americanmedtech.org. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • Asia Pacific Institute of Management. (n.d.). CMA Certification. Asiapac.imanet.org. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • Association of Medical Assistants. (n.d.). Certification. Aama-ntl.org. Retrieved 28 April 2025, 
  • Epic. (n.d.). Software solutions. Epic.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025. 
  • Microsoft News. (2023). Microsoft Dragon Copilot: Revolutionizing clinical workflows. News.microsoft.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025
  • Manor College. (n.d.). Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). Manor.edu. Retrieved 28 April 2025, 
  • National Center for Competency Testing. (n.d.). Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA). Ncctinc.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • National Healthcareer Association. (n.d.). CMAA exam application. Store.nhanow.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • Newstrail. (2023). Wearable medical devices market: A USD 328.19 billion opportunity by 2032. Newstrail.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • Penn Medicine. (2023). Robot assistants are now on the job at Lancaster General Hospital. Pennmedicine.org. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • Salary.com. (n.d.). Medical assistant-certified salary. Salary.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • Tebra. (n.d.). Tebra story. Tebra.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • 3M. (n.d.). Coding tools: 3M CodeFinder. 3m.com.au. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024). Medical assistants. Bls.gov. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • Wiley Online Library. (n.d.). Blockchain-Based Electronic Health Record: Systematic Literature Review. Onlinelibrary.wiley.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.
  • ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Medical Assistant Salary. Ziprecruiter.com. Retrieved 28 April 2025.

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