How much does a medical assistant make?

In the US, experience and certifications that employers value can raise a medical assistant's pay. Location, the workplace (such as a clinic or hospital), the kind of medicine they help with, and hours worked can also make a difference.

Perform administrative and certain clinical duties under the direction of a physician. Administrative duties may include scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding information for insurance purposes. Clinical duties may include taking and recording vital signs and medical histories, preparing patients for examination, drawing blood, and administering medications as directed by physician. Excludes “Physician Assistants” (29-1071).

What's a typical day like?

They greet patients, ask about health history, and measure blood pressure and height. Between visits, they may clean instruments, collect samples, update records, answer calls, or book appointments.

In the US, most finish high school and a 1–2-year medical-assisting program with hands-on practice; some learn at work or through an apprenticeship. Some take a certification exam; most states do not require certification, but rules vary.

Vocational school or a few years' experience (preparation level 3 of 5)

Good for people who like keeping things organized and helping and teaching.

Some US medical assistants operate EKG or X-ray equipment for routine tests—not just phones and patient records.