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Jannel
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How long would i need to become a Medical Admin?
I'm working on getting certified but, will I need to continue college in order to be taken seriously
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4 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jannel!
How Long Would I Need to Become a Medical Admin?
To become a medical administrative professional, the time required can vary significantly based on your current education level, the specific certification you are pursuing, and whether you choose to pursue further education. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you might expect:
1. Educational Requirements
Most positions in medical administration require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education.
Certificate Programs: These programs typically take about 6 months to 1 year to complete. They focus on essential skills such as medical terminology, healthcare laws, and office management.
Associate Degree: An associate degree in health administration or a related field usually takes about 2 years to complete. This degree provides a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems and administrative practices.
Bachelor’s Degree: While not always necessary, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in health administration or business can enhance your qualifications and career prospects. This typically requires an additional 2 years after completing an associate degree.
2. Certification
Certification can enhance your credibility and job prospects in the field of medical administration. Common certifications include:
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA): Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), this certification often requires passing an exam after completing relevant training or education.
Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA): This certification is more advanced and requires a bachelor’s degree in health information management.
The preparation for these certifications may take several months depending on your prior knowledge and study commitment.
3. Experience
Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions is crucial. Many certificate programs include externships that provide hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
Entry-Level Positions: Starting as a receptionist or administrative assistant in a healthcare setting can provide valuable experience while you continue your education or certification process.
4. Continuing Education
While not strictly necessary for all positions, continuing education can be beneficial for career advancement:
Many employers encourage ongoing professional development through workshops, seminars, and additional certifications.
Some roles may require specific continuing education credits to maintain certain certifications.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are starting from scratch with only a high school diploma, it may take approximately 6 months to 2 years to become qualified for entry-level positions in medical administration through certificate programs or an associate degree. If you aim for higher-level positions requiring a bachelor’s degree and additional certifications, it could take up to 4 years or more.
Will I Need to Continue College?
Continuing college is not strictly necessary for all medical admin roles; however, pursuing further education can significantly improve your job prospects and potential salary. Many employers value candidates who have completed higher levels of education or specialized training.
In conclusion, while initial certification may allow you to enter the field relatively quickly, continuing your education could enhance your career trajectory within medical administration.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
This organization provides resources and information regarding certification requirements and educational pathways for medical assistants and administrators.
2. National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
The NHA offers various certifications for healthcare professionals along with detailed descriptions of the educational requirements needed for each certification.
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on job outlooks, educational requirements, and salary expectations for various careers within the healthcare industry including medical administrative roles.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You, Richly.
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
How Long Would I Need to Become a Medical Admin?
To become a medical administrative professional, the time required can vary significantly based on your current education level, the specific certification you are pursuing, and whether you choose to pursue further education. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you might expect:
1. Educational Requirements
Most positions in medical administration require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education.
Certificate Programs: These programs typically take about 6 months to 1 year to complete. They focus on essential skills such as medical terminology, healthcare laws, and office management.
Associate Degree: An associate degree in health administration or a related field usually takes about 2 years to complete. This degree provides a more comprehensive understanding of healthcare systems and administrative practices.
Bachelor’s Degree: While not always necessary, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in health administration or business can enhance your qualifications and career prospects. This typically requires an additional 2 years after completing an associate degree.
2. Certification
Certification can enhance your credibility and job prospects in the field of medical administration. Common certifications include:
Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA): Offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), this certification often requires passing an exam after completing relevant training or education.
Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA): This certification is more advanced and requires a bachelor’s degree in health information management.
The preparation for these certifications may take several months depending on your prior knowledge and study commitment.
3. Experience
Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions is crucial. Many certificate programs include externships that provide hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
Entry-Level Positions: Starting as a receptionist or administrative assistant in a healthcare setting can provide valuable experience while you continue your education or certification process.
4. Continuing Education
While not strictly necessary for all positions, continuing education can be beneficial for career advancement:
Many employers encourage ongoing professional development through workshops, seminars, and additional certifications.
Some roles may require specific continuing education credits to maintain certain certifications.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are starting from scratch with only a high school diploma, it may take approximately 6 months to 2 years to become qualified for entry-level positions in medical administration through certificate programs or an associate degree. If you aim for higher-level positions requiring a bachelor’s degree and additional certifications, it could take up to 4 years or more.
Will I Need to Continue College?
Continuing college is not strictly necessary for all medical admin roles; however, pursuing further education can significantly improve your job prospects and potential salary. Many employers value candidates who have completed higher levels of education or specialized training.
In conclusion, while initial certification may allow you to enter the field relatively quickly, continuing your education could enhance your career trajectory within medical administration.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)
This organization provides resources and information regarding certification requirements and educational pathways for medical assistants and administrators.
2. National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
The NHA offers various certifications for healthcare professionals along with detailed descriptions of the educational requirements needed for each certification.
3. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on job outlooks, educational requirements, and salary expectations for various careers within the healthcare industry including medical administrative roles.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You, Richly.
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
387
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Becoming a Medical Admin typically takes about 6 months to a year if you're pursuing certification. While a certification is valuable, continuing your education can definitely enhance your credibility and career prospects. Many employers appreciate an associate or bachelor’s degree in health administration or a related field. This extra education can help you stand out and prepare you for advanced roles in the future. Keep going—you’re on a great path!
Thank you for giving me advice.
Jannel
Michelle Nguyen
Product Marketing Manager
3
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
To become a Medical Administrator, you typically need to complete a Master of Health Administration (MHA) program, which usually takes two to three years to complete on a full-time basis.
Some programs offer part-time tracks, which might take longer.
There are also accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as 15 to 16 months.
Some programs offer part-time tracks, which might take longer.
There are also accelerated programs that can be completed in as little as 15 to 16 months.
Lucy Iwuagwu
Nursing and midwifery student
44
Answers
Lilongwe, Central Region, Malawi
Updated
Lucy’s Answer
To become a medical administrator, the timeline can vary widely based on your career goals and chosen path. Certification is a great start and can often qualify you for entry-level administrative roles, providing valuable hands-on experience. However, to move up in the field or access higher-level management roles, many employers prefer or require a Master of Health Administration (MHA) or a related degree. An MHA program generally takes 2-3 years but can be completed in as little as 15-16 months in an accelerated track. Pursuing an advanced degree after gaining some work experience can enhance your skills and credibility, making you a more competitive candidate for senior positions.
Thanks for the help.
Jannel