Medical Admin Assisting Programs in South Dakota

In South Dakota the minimum requirement for becoming a Medical Assistant is earning a basic diploma, which can usually be obtained in less than one year. Many students choose to get an associate’s degree as it may provide them with better job opportunities at a higher salary.

Many people obtain their education through accredited online programs. You will not need a license to practice in South Dakota, but you must be under direct supervision of a licensed medical professional in the state.

To learn more about how to become a medical office assistant in South Dakota, contact the schools you see below to learn more about your options.

In the role of medical assistant, you will need to have good people skills as you are the first person the patient encounters when they come to the office. If you choose to become a Medical Administrative Assistant, you will typically be in the front office, and patients will look to you to get their first impressions of the medical care they receive.

You play a major role in the management of the front office as you handle the patient’s medical chart, verify health insurance, schedule or reschedule appointments and handle many other tasks throughout your day. If you like to stay busy and enjoy working with people, this may be a great career choice for you.

Some of the colleges available in South Dakota include: Colorado Technical University, Lake Area Technical Institute, Mitchell Technical Institute, National American University and Presentation College. Each of these facilities are accredited by the CAAHEP. There are other online colleges available as well, and you can contact them directly from our website.

When you are choosing a college, check on all of those that interest you, in order to compare their programs, curriculum and costs.

Typical admission requirements for medical assisting programs can include:

  • Proof of United States residency
  • A high school diploma or a high school equivalency certificate (GED)
  • Applicants must meet minimum entrance examination scores
  • Applicants must meet the requirements for their specific program

Certificate programs typically take from six months to one year to complete, offering a quick way to get started. South Dakota offers both Certified Medical Assistant and a Medical Assistant degree programs. The Associate’s degree medical assistant program is for professional, multi skilled individuals who want to assist in every aspect of medical practice, performing both clinical and clerical skilled duties.

The associate’s degree program requires a total of about 70 credits in South Dakota. The curriculum typically includes:

  • Medical Terminology
  • Anatomy/Physiology
  • Medical Laboratory Fundamentals
  • Medical Office Procedures
  • Student Success
  • Intermediate Algebra
  • Laboratory Procedures I, II
  • Pathophysiology
  • Medical Law and Ethics
  • Cpt/ICD-10/CM Coding
  • Complete Computer Concepts
  • Social Science – elective
  • Pharmacology and Administration of Medicines
  • Examination Room Techniques I,II
  • Medical Insurance & Billing
  • English – elective
  • Social Science – elective
  • Basic Life Support for Health Care
  • Cardiac Monitoring and DX Procedures
  • Clinical Externship
  • Medical Transcription

It is important for you to take the CMA exam to earn a certificate offered by the American Association of Medical Assistance. Employers look for this credential as passing this exam is further proof of your qualifications.

If you need help with tuition, complete a FAFSA application, which is a federal grant based on your income. Low interest loans and work opportunities are available. There are also scholarships, such as the Legacy Scholarship and the Star Scholarship.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics show an average income of $35,440 in May 2014 in South Dakota. If you choose an associate degree, it may pay a higher income than a certificate. Income is always based on education, credentials and work experience, and can vary from location to location as well.

This career does offer a sense of job security as there are expected to be increases in the need for medical assistants over the next few years. If you enjoy working with people in a medical atmosphere, this may be a good position for you. Reach out to the SD schools with med assisting programs to learn more about starting your education today.