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1. What are three important things I should know about this job 2. What values does your company look for in the they are hiring? 3. How difficult is it for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired for this job in this region??
Thank you for agreeing to this informational interview. My name is Arissa . I am a Job Corps student at Sacramento Job Corps , and I am reaching out to you because I am interested in and believe I would enjoy a career in the Health industry/ Clinical Medical Assisting. I would appreciate your perspective on the practical aspects of working in this area.
Here are the three questions I have for you.
1. What are three important things I should know about this job?
2. What values does your company look for in the they are hiring?
3. How difficult is it for recent graduates of a college or job training program to get hired for this job in this region?
Thank you in advance for your time.
Sincerely,
Arissa
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Arissa,
Key Insights on the Role of a Clinical Medical Assistant
Role and Responsibilities: As a Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA), you'll be expected to carry out a range of clinical and administrative tasks within healthcare environments. Your duties will include taking medical histories, preparing patients for examinations, assisting doctors during these examinations, collecting lab samples, and conducting basic lab tests. Additionally, you'll be responsible for administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and managing correspondence.
Training and Certification: To become a CMA, you'll need to complete a medical assisting program at postsecondary level, which combines classroom study with hands-on clinical training. These programs are offered by many community colleges and vocational schools and typically take around one year to complete. After finishing the program, you can sit for a certification exam to become a certified CMA. While certification isn't always a necessity, it can make you more appealing to employers and potentially lead to a higher salary.
Employment Prospects and Salary: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 19% growth in medical assistant employment from 2020 to 2030, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is anticipated due to the aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services. As of May 2020, the median annual wage for medical assistants was $35,850.
Hiring Values in Healthcare
When recruiting new staff, companies typically seek individuals whose values align with their organizational culture and mission. Here are some values that are highly valued in the healthcare sector:
Teamwork: Healthcare is a field that thrives on collaboration. Employers seek candidates who are team players and can contribute positively to a collaborative work environment.
Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication is critical in healthcare settings. Employers seek candidates who can effectively communicate with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
Empathy: Healthcare professionals often deal with patients in challenging or stressful circumstances. Employers value candidates who demonstrate empathy and compassion, providing emotional support to patients and their families.
Professionalism: High standards of professionalism are expected from healthcare professionals. Employers seek candidates who are dependable, responsible, ethical, and can consistently deliver excellent patient care.
Challenges for Recent Graduates in Securing Employment
Securing employment as a recent graduate in the healthcare field can be challenging due to factors like location, competition, and qualifications. However, there are numerous opportunities for those ready to make an extra effort to distinguish themselves. Here are some tips for recent graduates aiming to secure a position as a clinical medical assistant:
Certification: Earning your CMA certification can make you more appealing to employers and increase your chances of securing a job. Certified candidates are preferred as they have proven a higher level of knowledge and competency.
Strong Resume: Your resume should highlight your education, skills, and relevant experience. Use action verbs to describe your achievements and quantify them where possible. Customize your resume for each job application to highlight the most relevant skills and qualifications.
Networking: Networking can be a powerful tool for gaining entry into healthcare organizations. Attend job fairs, career events, and other professional networking events to meet potential employers and make industry connections. Consider joining professional organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the Association of Health Professionals (AHP) to broaden your industry contacts.
Experience: Consider volunteering or interning at healthcare organizations while still in school or after graduation.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.
Key Insights on the Role of a Clinical Medical Assistant
Role and Responsibilities: As a Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA), you'll be expected to carry out a range of clinical and administrative tasks within healthcare environments. Your duties will include taking medical histories, preparing patients for examinations, assisting doctors during these examinations, collecting lab samples, and conducting basic lab tests. Additionally, you'll be responsible for administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and managing correspondence.
Training and Certification: To become a CMA, you'll need to complete a medical assisting program at postsecondary level, which combines classroom study with hands-on clinical training. These programs are offered by many community colleges and vocational schools and typically take around one year to complete. After finishing the program, you can sit for a certification exam to become a certified CMA. While certification isn't always a necessity, it can make you more appealing to employers and potentially lead to a higher salary.
Employment Prospects and Salary: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 19% growth in medical assistant employment from 2020 to 2030, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is anticipated due to the aging population and the increasing demand for healthcare services. As of May 2020, the median annual wage for medical assistants was $35,850.
Hiring Values in Healthcare
When recruiting new staff, companies typically seek individuals whose values align with their organizational culture and mission. Here are some values that are highly valued in the healthcare sector:
Teamwork: Healthcare is a field that thrives on collaboration. Employers seek candidates who are team players and can contribute positively to a collaborative work environment.
Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication is critical in healthcare settings. Employers seek candidates who can effectively communicate with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
Empathy: Healthcare professionals often deal with patients in challenging or stressful circumstances. Employers value candidates who demonstrate empathy and compassion, providing emotional support to patients and their families.
Professionalism: High standards of professionalism are expected from healthcare professionals. Employers seek candidates who are dependable, responsible, ethical, and can consistently deliver excellent patient care.
Challenges for Recent Graduates in Securing Employment
Securing employment as a recent graduate in the healthcare field can be challenging due to factors like location, competition, and qualifications. However, there are numerous opportunities for those ready to make an extra effort to distinguish themselves. Here are some tips for recent graduates aiming to secure a position as a clinical medical assistant:
Certification: Earning your CMA certification can make you more appealing to employers and increase your chances of securing a job. Certified candidates are preferred as they have proven a higher level of knowledge and competency.
Strong Resume: Your resume should highlight your education, skills, and relevant experience. Use action verbs to describe your achievements and quantify them where possible. Customize your resume for each job application to highlight the most relevant skills and qualifications.
Networking: Networking can be a powerful tool for gaining entry into healthcare organizations. Attend job fairs, career events, and other professional networking events to meet potential employers and make industry connections. Consider joining professional organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the Association of Health Professionals (AHP) to broaden your industry contacts.
Experience: Consider volunteering or interning at healthcare organizations while still in school or after graduation.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.