2 answers
DaVaysia
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
3
Questions
Asked
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what are the challenges and rewards of being a Certified Medical Assistant?
I am doing some research about the CMA work life and am aiming to see if this is the correct career choice for me, I would like to hear the good and the bad about being a CMA.
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2 answers
Rita Chuang
Physician
188
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Rita’s Answer
You are basically the right hand person for the doctor. You will bring patients in, check their vital signs, write down their problems, give vaccinations, perform EKG, spirometry, etc. In between rooming patients, you will take all messages and give them to the doctor. There can be a lot of messages and patients often become anxious.
I think the negative is dealing with difficult patients. Some can be mean and rude and you need to learn how to handle them. Doctors can also become stressed out and as they cannot take it out on the patient, they will probably take it out on you.
I think the negative is dealing with difficult patients. Some can be mean and rude and you need to learn how to handle them. Doctors can also become stressed out and as they cannot take it out on the patient, they will probably take it out on you.
Cheri Hall
Physical Therapist
43
Answers
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Updated
Cheri’s Answer
Dear DaVaysia,
A Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a medical professional who directly assists patients and provides administrative support under the guidance of a physician, nurse practitioner, or another healthcare professional. Working in the healthcare sector can be incredibly rewarding. It allows you to aid individuals in their recovery from sickness or injury. If you enjoy social interaction, this role could be an excellent match for you, as it involves constant engagement with both colleagues and patients. Furthermore, the medical field is continuously expanding, offering robust job security and a variety of career opportunities. Becoming a CMA could serve as a valuable stepping stone into the healthcare industry, and your employer might even sponsor your further education, such as pursuing a nursing degree or an advanced technician degree.
As a CMA, you can expect an average salary of approximately $40,000 per year or $20 per hour. However, these figures can fluctuate based on your location and work setting, such as a doctor's office versus a hospital. Generally, the healthcare industry offers good benefits.
However, the role of a CMA does come with its challenges. The workday can be hectic and demanding, leaving little time for breaks. While some people thrive in this fast-paced environment, others may find it overwhelming. Another potential challenge is dealing directly with patients, who can occasionally be difficult, even when you're trying to assist them. Additionally, depending on your workplace, such as a hospital or assisted living facility, you might be required to work during holidays or evenings.
In conclusion, if you're someone who thrives in a vibrant, fast-paced setting and enjoys working with people, earning your CMA certification could open up many future job prospects and provide excellent job security.
Volunteer in a hospital or doctor's office to see what the day to day of a CMA is like
A Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) is a medical professional who directly assists patients and provides administrative support under the guidance of a physician, nurse practitioner, or another healthcare professional. Working in the healthcare sector can be incredibly rewarding. It allows you to aid individuals in their recovery from sickness or injury. If you enjoy social interaction, this role could be an excellent match for you, as it involves constant engagement with both colleagues and patients. Furthermore, the medical field is continuously expanding, offering robust job security and a variety of career opportunities. Becoming a CMA could serve as a valuable stepping stone into the healthcare industry, and your employer might even sponsor your further education, such as pursuing a nursing degree or an advanced technician degree.
As a CMA, you can expect an average salary of approximately $40,000 per year or $20 per hour. However, these figures can fluctuate based on your location and work setting, such as a doctor's office versus a hospital. Generally, the healthcare industry offers good benefits.
However, the role of a CMA does come with its challenges. The workday can be hectic and demanding, leaving little time for breaks. While some people thrive in this fast-paced environment, others may find it overwhelming. Another potential challenge is dealing directly with patients, who can occasionally be difficult, even when you're trying to assist them. Additionally, depending on your workplace, such as a hospital or assisted living facility, you might be required to work during holidays or evenings.
In conclusion, if you're someone who thrives in a vibrant, fast-paced setting and enjoys working with people, earning your CMA certification could open up many future job prospects and provide excellent job security.
Cheri recommends the following next steps: