You’ve seen the commercials. It seems almost too good to be true. You could go back to school for less than a year, study hard, and before you know it, “have a great job working with doctors!”. You’re currently working a minimum wage, dead end job, and this seems like a great way out. A career as a medical assistant seems like the opportunity you’ve been looking for. It sounds like a dream come true.
Unfortunately, most graduates aren’t as lucky as the actors in the commercials. Most do not find a job immediately after graduating. And, it doesn’t solve all their problems. Some can never find a job in the field, and end up returning to their old jobs or settle for being a nurse’s aide.
Of course, there are many who do succeed and excel in the field. Read “Medical Assisting as a Career Choice” for more insight from an experienced MA. However, sometimes it can take knowing the right person at the right time in the right place, to land a job as an MA.
There are several things to consider before entering a medical assistant training program. Research the demand for MA’s in your area. You might even ask your own doctor if he/she thinks it is a good idea to become an MA. Ask the recruiter for your school what percentage of MA’s are able to find jobs upon graduation.
Many medical professionals would recommend becoming a nurse instead. You’ll earn more money, and you have a better chance at getting a job. Consider applying to a local LPN (or in some states, it is called an LVN) program. You could work in hospital, nursing homes, or even (in some states) become a school nurse. You should not have much trouble finding a position, however, if you become an MA, you might be stuck without without a job for a long time.
If you think you can’t become an LVN because you can’t afford to go to school for two years, think again. There are many financial aid programs out there. Speak with the financial aid office of a school in you area with an LVN/LPN program for more information.
And, of course, you could even aim to become an RN. Some hospitals even offer RN school programs through their facility. Read “Pros and Cons of Becoming a Nurse” for some more insight on the nursing profession.
Ultimately, the decision to enter an MA program is up to you. But, please, take this seriously. Remember, it might be challenging to find a job and the pay if extremely low. You could make more money working as a call center agent (without any experience) than being an MA. You could even make the same income as a teacher’s aide in a public school.
If you are still exploring career options, please read “Career Questions for High School Students” and “How to Decide on a College Major.” Also, read “Jobs that Pay Over $15 an Hour Without a College Degree” and “Jobs that Pay Alot More than You Think.” You might also check out “High Demand Science Jobs that Pay Over $60,000 a Year” and “Jobs that Pay $10 an Hour.” Some other links to read are “Jobs in the Medical Field Without a Bachelor’s Degree” and “Jobs that Pay More than a Million Dollars a Year.”
Good luck as you make decisions for your future!