Medical Admin Assistant Programs in Minnesota
A medical administrative assistant is often the first person that patients see upon their arrival to a medical appointment. Therefore, a friendly and helpful demeanor is a plus. Behind the scenes, assistants perform tasks like updating patient information provided by the doctor and scheduling appointments.
Healthcare facilities need the important support services provided by medical administrative assistants. As a result, it may be possible to find a future position in facilities like a hospital in Minneapolis, a clinic in Winona or a private practice in Duluth. Take some time to review the medical office assisting programs in Minnesota to learn more about your options for entering this career.
Educational Requirements for Becoming an Administrative Medical Assistant in MN
Most active medical administrative assistants have received a diploma from an accredited certificate program. A substantial minority will have completed a two-year associates Degree. Those that have successfully completed certification requirements may find opportunities for increased pay.
A certificate program may take a year or more to complete, while associate’s degree programs usually last two years. Certificate programs focus on specific skills that you’ll need, while Associate’s Degree programs in Medical Assisting in Minnesota include broader coursework in areas like mathematics, anatomy, communications and English.
Successful completion of a diploma program or an associate’s degree will allow you to sign up for the certification exam. If you pass the exam, you’ll be certified for two years. Two-year renewals are granted as long as you compete 10 hours of continuing education coursework every two years.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
In addition to federal student loan and grant programs, scholarships may be available to help pay for your education in Minnesota. For example, the American Association of Medical Assistants awards the $1,000 Maxine Williams Scholarship to selected students that have maintained a 3.0 GPA for at least one quarter in an accredited medical assisting program.
Medical Assisting Jobs in Minnesota
According to O*Net the number of medical assisting jobs is expected to grow by 22 percent during the decade spanning 2012-2022. Wages in Minnesota tend to run higher than in many other parts of the country. O*Net reported a $29,610 U.S. median wage in 2013, at a time when the Minnesota median income was $33,200.
Many medical assisting jobs are found in and around the larger cities in Minnesota, like Minneapolis, St. Paul and Duluth. Medical administrative assistants are also employed at the nationally-known Mayo Clinic in Rochester. However, most medical clinics, private practices and hospitals need the support services of medical assistants in both rural and urban areas across the state.
Reach out to the Medical Assisting schools in Minnesota that offer an administrative route today to get detailed program information. Once you have chosen a program, you can get started on your way to becoming an MA in Minnesota, entering a job field with promise, rewards and a good deal of personal satisfaction.