Best Medical Assistant Schools & Programs in Washington – How to Become a Medical Assistant in Washington for 2025

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Like in the rest of the United States, Washington State hospitals continue to be understaffed, affecting employee health, facility operations, and patient care. Notably, 44% of medical practices in the United States that were surveyed in April 2022 reported that medical assistants were the “most difficult to recruit" (Medical Group Management Association & Harrop, 2022). Meanwhile, Washington opened more medical assisting positions in October 2020 (1,075 job postings) than in October 2019 (895 job postings) (Koivumäki & Marlet, 2020).

To empower aspiring healthcare professionals, medical assistant programs in Washington State have been strengthening their curricula and faculty, and Representative Paul Harris has enacted a bill that broadens the scope of the medical assisting practice in the Evergreen State.

If you are interested in pursuing this profession but unsure where to start, our team at Research.com created this in-depth guide to medical assistant programs in Washington State. The guide also discusses the steps to becoming a medical assistant and the standard cost of living in the state.

Best Medical Assistant Schools in Washington Table of Contents

Is medical assisting a good job in Washington?
What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in Washington?
Medical Assistant Program Length in Washington
Tuition and Costs of Medical Assistant Programs in Washington
Washington Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025
What to Look for in a Medical Assistant Program in Washington
Job Placement and Career Support for Graduates of Online Medical Assistant Program
Can Medical Assisting Skills Be Leveraged for Allied Healthcare Careers?
The Importance of Certification and Specializations for Medical Assistants
Emerging Trends in Medical Assisting in Washington State
How can further education accelerate the transition from medical assisting to advanced clinical roles?
Can medical assistants benefit from specializing in diagnostic imaging?
Can medical assistants transition into pharmacy roles?
Can medical assistants transition into LVN roles?
Can mentorship and networking enhance career growth for medical assistants?
Can medical assistants transition into radiology technician roles?
Can medical assistants expand their careers into billing and coding roles?
Can medical assistants transition into LPN roles?
Can medical assistants transition into registered nursing roles?

Is medical assisting a good job in Washington?

Medical assisting is a good entry-level occupation, particularly for single, childless individuals who are just about to start out in Washington State’s healthcare industry. However, the average salary provided by the role may be inadequate for residents with dependents. Explore the following points to learn more about the standard cost of living in the state, the income potential of medical assistants, and the career opportunities available to them:

Cost of Living. Single residents without children can afford their personal expenses in Washington with a gross annual income of $40,722. The figure already includes housing ($15,076), food ($4,686), and transportation ($5,316). Meanwhile, single residents with one child require a gross annual income of $80,458 (Glasmeier & Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2023).
Income Potential. You may wonder, “How much do medical assistants make in Washington State?" The estimated median annual clinical medical assistant salary in the state is $45,062.4 in 2022 [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2023]. The amount is $4,340.4 more than the gross annual income necessary for single residents without children. However, the median annual wage is much less than the $80,458 gross annual income needed by single residents with one child.
Career Opportunities. Along with the rest of the US, Washington has been experiencing a shortage of healthcare professionals across all specializations and employment levels. For instance, qualified nurses have been leaving the industry for several key reasons, which have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, many care providers have quit due to harsh working conditions. Fortunately, employers are working toward improving workplace systems and compensation to ensure worker health, safety, and retention. Therefore, individuals aspiring to build a healthcare career may want to consider starting their paths in medical assistant programs in Washington State.

What are the steps to becoming a medical assistant in Washington?

Individuals aspiring to venture into the healthcare industry as medical assistants need to understand the steps on how to become a medical assistant in Washington State. Doing so ensures that they are aware of the potential paths that they may take to become licensed. For instance, organizations that administer the certification examinations for the role may allow applicants to complete their education and training through several approved settings. Explore the following process to learn more:

Complete an accredited medical assistant program. Finish a medical assisting program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or is offered by an accredited academic institution. These programs are designed to equip you with essential medical assisting skills, such as communicating with and preparing patients for examinations, conducting basic laboratory tests, and utilizing computer software for recordkeeping. Notably, the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the American Medical Technologists (AMT)—the organizations that regulate certification examinations—permit aspirants to opt for alternative educational pathways, such as apprenticeship programs, as long as they follow the guidelines set by these organizations.
Finish a 160-hour externship. Externships must be part of accredited medical assistant programs in Washington State for you to be eligible to take your certification examinations. These may be supervised professional experiences that are conducted through a partnership between academic institutions and third-party organizations. Through externships, you will have the opportunity to perform clinical and administrative tasks, such as medical billing and coding duties as well as patient interactions.
Pass the certification examinations. Once applicants complete their medical assistant programs in Washington State, they must apply to take and pass one of the following certification examinations before they can join the 18,300 medical assistants who are already employed in the Evergreen State (US BLS, 2023):

The Certified Medical Assistant Exam through the AAMAThe Registered Medical Assistant Exam through the AMTThe Clinical Medical Assistant Exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)The National Certified Medical Assistant Exam through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)The Clinical Medical Assistant Certification Exam through the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
The Certified Medical Assistant Exam through the AAMA
The Registered Medical Assistant Exam through the AMT
The Clinical Medical Assistant Exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
The National Certified Medical Assistant Exam through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
The Clinical Medical Assistant Certification Exam through the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)
The Certified Medical Assistant Exam through the AAMA
The Registered Medical Assistant Exam through the AMT
The Clinical Medical Assistant Exam through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
The National Certified Medical Assistant Exam through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
The Clinical Medical Assistant Certification Exam through the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA)

What career advancement opportunities are available for medical assistants in Washington?

Medical assistants in Washington have various opportunities for career advancement that can enhance their professional trajectory and earning potential. These opportunities include:

Specialization: Medical assistants can choose to specialize in fields such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or orthopedics, enhancing their skill set and appeal to employers.
Certification Advancement: Earning additional certifications, such as a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) or Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), can lead to higher-paying positions and greater job responsibilities.
Leadership Roles: Experienced medical assistants may move into supervisory or managerial positions, overseeing other staff and operations within healthcare facilities.
Transitioning to Nursing: Many medical assistants use their experience as a stepping stone to pursue nursing degrees (LPN or RN), allowing them to provide more comprehensive patient care.
Administrative Roles: Medical assistants interested in healthcare administration can pursue positions in office management or health information management, often requiring additional education or certification.
Continuing Education: Pursuing further education, such as a bachelor’s degree in health sciences or healthcare management, can open doors to more advanced roles within the healthcare system.

Medical Assistant Program Length in Washington

Medical assistant programs in Washington State may require students to earn their credits within two years or less, including externship hours. Certificate programs may take less than one year to finish, while diploma programs may require more time, considering that their curricula include more major core courses. In contrast, associate of applied science (AAS) degree programs in medical assisting may take two years for students to complete. Moreover, AAS degree holders may be on track to earning a bachelor’s degree in fields that they are eligible to train in.

Tuition and Costs of Medical Assistant Programs in Washington

Medical assistant programs in Washington State may cost between $9,131.92 and $18,234 for resident or in-state students. Meanwhile, the programs may cost between $20,706 and $21,048.2 for non-resident or out-of-state residents. Notably, you may apply for US student scholarships that you may be qualified for to help you afford your entire program.

Washington Schools Offering Medical Assistant Programs for 2025

Fortunately, for aspiring healthcare professionals, many medical assistant schools in Washington State are accredited by national institutional and programmatic accreditors. Their accreditation status demonstrates the quality of their program curriculum, faculty, and facilities. Explore the following leading academic institutions in the Evergreen State and determine if their programs are suitable for your personal career goals and preferences.

1. Columbia Basin College

Founded in 1955, Columbia Basin College offers over 100 academic programs from the high school level to continuing education. The institution provides college students with degree options in the fields of business, computer science, education, the arts, the humanities, communication, and the health sciences. Its medical assistant certificate program equips students with office administration, clinical, and patient-care skills in three quarters and a 198-hour externship. The program curriculum includes courses in pharmacology, clinical procedures, and administrative office procedures, among other key areas. Moreover, Columbia Basin College boasts an examination pass rate of 87.5% for their 2020 graduates.

Program Available:

Medical Assistant Certificate Program

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); CAAHEP

2. Carrington College

With numerous campuses across the US, Carrington College offers various academic programs in healthcare, from certificate programs to bachelor’s degree programs. The college’s medical assistant certificate program aims to educate students on medical office skills, such as clerical, bookkeeping, and insurance-processing functions, as well as clinical and laboratory skills, such as patient procedures, diagnostic tests, and the maintenance of equipment and supplies. The program also has on-campus and online options and may be completed between nine months and two years. Moreover, the on-campus and blended options of the program may cost $18,234, while the fully online option may cost $20,706.

Program Available:

Medical Assisting Certificate Program

Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACCJC/WASC); CAAHEP

3. Clover Park Technical College

Located in Lakewood, Washington, Clover Park Technical College is a public academic institution that provides students with over 120 certificate and degree program options in diverse disciplines, including technology, engineering, trades, human services, and the health sciences. The college’s associate of applied technology (AAT) program in medical assisting offers essential courses, such as anatomy, medical terminology, communication, administrative procedures, and insurance billing and coding, among other fundamental topics and skills. Moreover, the examination pass rate for the college’s 2020 graduates was 87%.

Program Available:

AAT in Medical Assisting

Accreditation: NWCCU; CAAHEP

4. Yakima Valley Community College

Established in 1928, Yakima Valley Community College is one of the public medical assistant programs in Washington State that offers a certificate program and an AAS program in medical assisting. The certificate program curriculum consists of 66 credits of coursework that includes medical law and ethics, first-aid/CPR/blood-borne pathogen training, medical billing and coding, clinical theory and laboratory skills, and an externship. Meanwhile, students may earn the 90-credit AAS degree by completing the requirements of the certificate program as well as additional credits in the social sciences, the natural sciences, and elective courses.

Programs Available:

Medical Assisting Certificate
AAS in Medical Assisting

Accreditation: NWCCU; CAAHEP

5. Renton Technical College

Founded in 1941, Renton Technical College is a public academic institution that offers degree programs in various fields, including aerospace, automotive, business, technology, and healthcare. The college also gives students an option to finish a 70-credit certificate program in medical assisting or continue working toward completing its 90-credit AAS program in the role. These medical assistant programs in Washington State include courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, administrative medical procedures, clinical procedures, and general education.

Programs Available:

Medical Assisting Certificate Program
AAS in Medical Assisting

Accreditation: NWCCU; CAAHEP

What to Look for in a Medical Assistant Program in Washington

Higher education is a mammoth commitment that concerns several of your personal resources, such as your time, money, and effort. This is why it is important to take the time to research the different physician assistant schools in Washington State. Explore the following essential criteria to help with your search:

Accreditation. Accreditation ensures that you will receive quality education and training from your academic institution and instructors. Institutional and programmatic accreditors of medical assistant programs in Washington State may include the NWCCU, the ACCJC/WASC, the CAAHEP, and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Externship Opportunities. Practicums are required by colleges and universities and the organizations that administer examinations for medical assistant certification in WA. Therefore, you must check in with your preferred academic institutions to ensure that externships are included in their curricula before applying for their programs.
Affordability. You must also take into account your financial standing and the cost of your preferred medical assistant programs in Washington State. However, you may also try for scholarship programs that you may be eligible for, such as the Washington College Grant, which awards financial support to qualified students of certificate, work training, and apprenticeship programs, based on their family size, family income, and school type. Notably, the higher your family income, the lower your award amount. Qualified students of community and technical colleges may receive between $457 and $4,573 from the Washington College Grant (Washington Student Achievement Council, 2023).

Job Placement and Career Support for Graduates of Online Medical Assistant Program

Completing the cheapest online medical assistant program is a significant first step toward a rewarding healthcare career. However, finding a job after graduation can be just as important as the education itself. Many programs, including affordable online options, provide job placement services and career support to help graduates succeed in the workforce. Here’s what to look for:

Job Placement Services: Many programs maintain partnerships with local healthcare providers, helping connect graduates with potential employers. These services often include job fairs, employer networking events, and direct referrals.

Resume and Interview Preparation: Career services teams in medical assistant programs often provide workshops or one-on-one support to help students craft professional resumes and prepare for job interviews. This ensures you can confidently present your skills and training to potential employers.

Externship-to-Employment Pathways: Externships are not only valuable for hands-on experience but can also lead to job offers. Some programs work closely with externship sites to transition students into permanent roles after graduation.

Certification Exam Support: Passing a certification exam, such as the CMA or RMA, can boost job prospects. Programs that offer exam prep resources, such as practice tests or study guides, help ensure graduates are ready to succeed.

Access to Alumni Networks: Alumni networks can be an excellent resource for mentorship, job leads, and professional connections. Many online programs offer virtual networking opportunities to help graduates expand their career options.

Can Medical Assisting Skills Be Leveraged for Allied Healthcare Careers?

Medical assisting provides a robust foundation that can open pathways to diverse roles within the healthcare sector. By honing clinical, administrative, and patient care skills, professionals can diversify their career trajectories and explore opportunities in related fields. For instance, transitioning into nutritional services is a practical extension of the patient education and wellness duties common in medical assisting. Research into how to become a nutritionist in Washington reveals actionable steps for those looking to expand their expertise and maximize career flexibility. This interdisciplinary approach not only enriches professional experience but also meets the evolving demands of holistic patient care in today’s healthcare environment.

The Importance of Certification and Specializations for Medical Assistants

Obtaining a medical assistant certification is a critical step in enhancing your employability and credibility in Washington State’s healthcare industry. While some medical assistant roles don’t strictly require certifications, many healthcare employers prefer or mandate them due to the specialized knowledge and skills they validate. Certifications like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) not only demonstrate your proficiency but also qualify you for advanced roles or higher salaries.

Specializing further in a specific area within medical assisting can set you apart from other job candidates. Opportunities for specialization include administrative medical assisting, clinical medical assisting, or specific fields such as phlebotomy or EKG technology. Gaining additional certifications in specialties can boost your expertise and expand your career options, such as roles in diagnostic imaging, cardiovascular care, or surgical assisting.

If you’re considering pathways to level up your career quickly, exploring short programs designed for advanced certifications can be a strategic move. Visit our resource on quick medical certifications that pay well for insights on certifications offering high returns with minimal time investment.

Ultimately, pursuing certifications and specializations can help you stand out in a competitive job market, enhance your earning potential, and open doors to a more fulfilling career in healthcare.

Emerging Trends in Medical Assisting in Washington State

The healthcare industry in Washington is undergoing rapid transformation, and medical assistants are at the forefront of these changes. One notable trend is the increasing integration of technology into medical assisting roles. From electronic health record (EHR) management to telemedicine facilitation, medical assistants are required to develop strong technical skills to stay competitive in the job market. Programs offering specialized training in healthcare technology are becoming increasingly valuable, providing graduates with the skills to meet the evolving needs of modern healthcare facilities.

Another emerging trend is the emphasis on patient-centered care and cultural competency. Washington’s diverse population demands healthcare professionals who understand and respect cultural differences. Medical assistants are playing a pivotal role in bridging gaps by fostering trust and improving communication between patients and healthcare providers. Training programs are incorporating courses on cultural awareness and patient advocacy to prepare future medical assistants for these responsibilities.

Furthermore, the growing focus on preventive care has expanded the responsibilities of medical assistants. In addition to supporting physicians during patient visits, many medical assistants now engage directly in patient education on topics such as wellness, nutrition, and chronic disease prevention. Programs highlighting these aspects equip graduates with a well-rounded skill set that aligns with the state’s healthcare priorities.

By staying informed about these trends and selecting programs that address them, aspiring medical assistants can ensure they remain relevant and fully prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead. For those interested in further advancing their careers, exploring how to become a nurse in Washington can provide additional pathways to growth and success in the healthcare field.

Venture into Healthcare as a Medical Assistant in Washington

Washington State medical assistant positions are not only more important but also more abundant now than ever. The current healthcare landscape provides aspiring professionals with a unique opportunity to become part of an industry of essential workers that aim to provide quality care services to ensure the health of the world amid the most society-changing occurrence so far today. As a future healthcare professional, you have the responsibility to do your research and choose a credible academic institution that offers accredited programs so that you will be well-equipped to pass certification examinations and fulfill your role in diverse healthcare settings.

How can further education accelerate the transition from medical assisting to advanced clinical roles?

Medical assistants seeking to broaden their scope may consider advancing their education beyond foundational training by enrolling in advanced healthcare programs. These pathways offer rigorous curricula that transcend basic clinical and administrative skills, focusing instead on complex patient management, evidence-based decision making, and leadership in healthcare settings. Transitioning into roles such as healthcare administration or advanced clinical practice can be a logical next step for professionals eager to assume greater responsibilities. For instance, pursuing programs that detail the competencies required in higher-level positions can offer insights into the transition process. Additionally, exploring opportunities like how to become a nurse practitioner in Washington provides a comprehensive roadmap for medical assistants interested in furthering their clinical careers.

Can medical assistants benefit from specializing in diagnostic imaging?

Medical assistants looking to expand their professional capabilities may explore diagnostic imaging specialization as a pathway to diversify their skills and meet evolving healthcare demands. Acquiring expertise in modern imaging techniques not only enhances clinical proficiency but also opens doors to roles that require a higher level of technical aptitude. Focused programs, such as online sonography certificate programs, are designed to provide structured training in diagnostic procedures, patient safety protocols, and equipment operation. This targeted specialization can significantly improve job prospects and contribute to career resilience in a competitive healthcare market.

Can medical assistants transition into pharmacy roles?

Medical assistants build a solid foundation in clinical procedures and patient care that can serve as a bridge to pharmacy-related careers. Leveraging hands-on experience in medication administration and health record management, these professionals are well-positioned to explore advanced certification and specialized training in pharmaceutical care. Transitioning into pharmacy roles typically involves gaining targeted education in pharmacology, drug safety, and medication management to meet the standards required by employers and licensing boards. For those considering this pathway, reviewing the steps outlined in how to become a licensed pharmacist in Washington can offer valuable insights into the certification process and career progression.

Can medical assistants transition into LVN roles?

Medical assistants seeking an alternative nursing pathway may consider transitioning into LVN roles, which offer an expanded scope of patient care and enhanced clinical responsibilities without duplicating the LPN pathway. This transition typically involves enrolling in targeted bridging programs that focus on advanced clinical coursework, comprehensive patient management techniques, and preparation for state-specific licensure examinations. Prospective LVNs need to demonstrate proficiency in both technical procedures and interpersonal skills to succeed in increasingly demanding healthcare environments. For detailed guidance on the requirements and step-by-step process, consult our article on how to become a LVN nurse in Washington.

Can mentorship and networking enhance career growth for medical assistants?

Research indicates that structured mentorship and targeted networking initiatives can significantly influence career development and transition into advanced clinical or administrative roles. Establishing relationships with experienced healthcare professionals provides personalized insights into best practices, evolving regulatory standards, and effective patient management strategies. Additionally, active participation in professional associations and local healthcare forums offers access to exclusive industry developments, specialized workshops, and leadership opportunities. These interactions not only refine clinical and administrative competencies but also assist in identifying emerging trends and certification pathways that further validate professional expertise.

Can medical assistants transition into radiology technician roles?

Medical assistants with a solid clinical background can leverage their patient care expertise to transition into radiology technician roles. This pathway requires targeted education in imaging technology and certification in radiologic practices, which not only expands technical skills but also enhances career versatility. For detailed steps on the required training and certification, review our guide on how to become a radiology technician in Washington.

Can medical assistants expand their careers into billing and coding roles?

Medical assistants can leverage their practical experience and administrative skills to transition into billing and coding, offering an alternative pathway within healthcare revenue management. This role not only requires comprehensive knowledge of clinical workflows but also demands proficiency in coding systems and billing protocols. Pursuing targeted certifications and specialized training can facilitate this transition, thereby opening additional avenues for career advancement. For a structured guide on the certification process and essential steps, refer to How to become a medical biller and coder in Washington?.

Can medical assistants transition into LPN roles?

Medical assistants with established clinical and patient care experience may consider advancing into licensed practical nursing as a viable pathway for enhancing their clinical responsibilities and career prospects. This transition involves acquiring additional clinical competencies, undertaking focused coursework, and successfully completing licensure examinations. Professionals seeking a streamlined pathway can explore detailed guidance on how to become an LPN fast in Washington to understand the specific steps and requirements involved in this career shift.

Can medical assistants transition into registered nursing roles?

Medical assistants seeking an elevated clinical pathway may explore bridging programs that lead to registered nursing roles. These structured educational programs focus on enhancing clinical competencies, patient management, and critical thinking skills necessary for nursing practice. Prospective registered nurses should investigate accredited curriculum options and understand that these transition programs typically require comprehensive clinical hours and theoretical coursework. In Washington State, ensuring that academic programs align with state-specific criteria is vital; review the nursing license requirements in Washington to fully grasp the prerequisite licensure and certification process that facilitates a successful transition.

Key Insights

High Demand for Medical Assistants: Washington State is experiencing a significant demand for medical assistants, with job postings increasing from 895 in October 2019 to 1,075 in October 2020.
Legislative Support: Representative Paul Harris has enacted a bill that broadens the scope of the medical assisting practice in Washington, enhancing career opportunities and responsibilities for medical assistants.
Competitive Salaries: The median annual salary for clinical medical assistants in Washington is $45,062.4, which is higher than the income required for single residents without children to afford the cost of living in the state.
Comprehensive Training Programs: Accredited medical assistant programs in Washington State, such as those offered by Columbia Basin College and Renton Technical College, provide extensive training, including required externships, to ensure graduates are well-prepared for certification exams and professional practice.
Affordability and Financial Aid: The cost of medical assistant programs in Washington varies, but financial aid options, such as the Washington College Grant, are available to help offset expenses for eligible students.

FAQ

Is medical assisting a good career choice in Washington State?

Yes, medical assisting is a promising career choice in Washington State due to the high demand for healthcare professionals, competitive salaries, and legislative support expanding the scope of practice for medical assistants.

What is the average salary for medical assistants in Washington State?

The median annual salary for clinical medical assistants in Washington State is $45,062.4 as of 2022.

What are the educational requirements to become a medical assistant in Washington State?

To become a medical assistant in Washington, individuals must complete an accredited medical assistant program, which can be a certificate, diploma, or associate degree program.

How long does it take to complete a medical assistant program in Washington State?

The length of medical assistant programs in Washington varies. Certificate programs can take less than one year, diploma programs can take up to two years, and associate degree programs typically take two years to complete.

Are externships required for medical assistant programs in Washington State?

Yes, externships are required as part of accredited medical assistant programs in Washington State. These practical experiences provide hands-on training in real healthcare settings.

What certification exams are available for medical assistants in Washington State?

Certification exams available for medical assistants in Washington include the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam through the AAMA, the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) exam through the AMT, the Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam through the NHA, the National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) exam through the NCCT, and the Clinical Medical Assistant Certification (CMAC) exam through the AMCA.

What are the tuition costs for medical assistant programs in Washington State?

Tuition costs for medical assistant programs in Washington State range from $9,131.92 to $18,234 for in-state students and $20,706 to $21,048.2 for out-of-state students.

Are there financial aid options for medical assistant students in Washington State?

Yes, financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and the Washington College Grant are available to help students cover the costs of their education.

Which schools offer accredited medical assistant programs in Washington State?

Accredited medical assistant programs in Washington State are offered by schools such as Columbia Basin College, Carrington College, Clover Park Technical College, Yakima Valley Community College, and Renton Technical College.

What should I look for when choosing a medical assistant program in Washington State?

When choosing a medical assistant program in Washington, consider factors such as accreditation, externship opportunities, affordability, and available financial aid to ensure you receive a quality education and training.

What types of community health initiatives can medical assistants participate in within Washington?

In Washington, medical assistants can participate in a variety of community health initiatives that enhance their skills and serve local populations. These initiatives often include public health campaigns, vaccination drives, health fairs, and community wellness programs. Medical assistants may work with non-profit organizations, local health departments, and community clinics to provide essential services such as health screenings, patient education, and chronic disease management. Additionally, they may engage in outreach efforts to underserved communities, offering preventive care and resources to improve health outcomes. These experiences not only broaden their practical skills but also deepen their understanding of community health challenges and solutions.

References:

Glasmeier, A. K. & Massachusetts Institute of Technology. (2023). Living Wage Calculation for Washington. https://livingwage.mit.edu/states/53
Harrop, C. (2022). Medical assistants remain elusive for practices navigating a staffing crisis. Medical Group Management Association. https://www.mgma.com/mgma-stats/medical-assistants-remain-elusive-for-practices-navigating-a-staffing-crisis
Koivumäki, R. & Marlet, E. (2020). Ramping Up Medical Assistants in the Covid-19 Recovery: A Case for Registered Apprenticeships. https://www.seattlejobsinitiative.com/wp-content/uploads/Ramping-Up-Medical-Assistants-in-the-COVID-19-Recovery.pdf
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, April 25). May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, Washington. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wa.htm
Washington Student Achievement Council. ASHINGTON COLLEGE GRANT ELIGIBILITY & AWARDS. https://wsac.wa.gov/wcg-awards