Are you interested in learning more about what it’s like to be a medical assistant? Many medical assistants complete both clinical and administrative tasks in their workplaces and these individuals are typically comfortable working with patients, detail oriented, and dependable.
If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant, read on to learn more about the work in this field and find answers to frequently asked questions.
Can a medical assistant draw blood?
Medical assistants may be able to perform venipuncture [1], the skill needed to draw blood.
Can a medical assistant work in a hospital?
Yes, medical assistants are commonly hired at hospitals [2], however some hospitals will hire medical assistants to work under a different job title, not as a medical assistant.
What are front office medical assistant duties?
Typically, medical assistants perform the following tasks [3]:
- Record patient history and personal information
- Measure vital signs, such as blood pressure
- Assist physicians with patient examinations
- Give patients injections or medications as directed by physicians and as permitted by state law
- Schedule patient appointments
- Prepare blood samples for laboratory tests
- Enter patient information into medical records
Can medical assistants administer medications?
Yes, medical assistants can administer medications to a patient, as long as it is ordered by a physician [1].
Do medical assistants wear scrubs?
Dress varies among employers, but many medical assistants are required to wear scrubs.
Who do medical assistants work with?
Medical assistants often work alongside physicians [3], such as podiatrists or optometrists.
Can medical assistants give Botox injections?
Botox injections do not fall within the scope of practice [4] for medical assistants, who are typically only allowed to perform venipunctures. This may vary from state to state and should be verified at the time of employment.
Can an EMT be a medical assistant?
An EMT can become a medical assistant if they complete the appropriate training. However, because EMTs have shorter and different training, they’ll need to take additional courses to become a medical assistant.
Beginning Your Career as a Medical Assistant Starts With The Right Training
Beginning your career as a medical assistant can start with selecting the best education for you. If you have questions about the Delta Technical College (Delta Tech) Medical Assisting Program, please contact the Admissions Team.
Sources
[1]https://www.medpro.com/documents/10502/3019648/Risk+Q%26A_Scope+of+Practice+for+Medical+Assistants_07-2018_MedPro+Group.pdf [2] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm#tab-3 [3] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/medical-assistants.htm#tab-2 [4] https://www.americanmedspa.org/page/DEMOStateTreatment/Treatment-Questions—DEMO.htm