For those looking for a career that is in demand, training to become a medical office assistant (MOA) can be an excellent option. These dedicated professionals are in high demand in Alberta, with an employment outlook that is well above average.
Preparing for a career as a medical office assistant is not always about paperwork. Although students should expect to work in a more administrative, public-facing role, this career can also include some familiarity with certain clinical procedures like infection control, first aid, and more. This means that top training programs also include training in certain clinical procedures, preparing students for all the demands this rewarding career can bring.
Here are a few medical procedures an MOA might expect to be included in their duties, and how knowledge of clinical procedures and more will help students along this career path.
Addressing and Assisting Patients In-Office
An administrative position at a medical office requires a certain familiarity with medical and anatomical knowledge. Students pursuing a medical office assistant career should possess an understanding of medical terminology as well as an understanding of certain clinical procedures because their responsibilities may include addressing medical asepsis, instrument safety, first aid, and more. The role of an MOA is a constant learning process, and students should prepare to be familiar with skills that will help in their daily routines, such as checking vital signs and basic measurements.
MOAs can expect to use a variety of skills in the medical field
Applying Skills from Your Medical Office Assistant Courses
One of the key duties of an MOA is to handle clerical tasks, which includes, but is not limited to, filing information, managing billing, and receiving and processing the necessary paperwork. Many of these tasks build upon the natural and developed skills learned during medical office assistant courses, including organization and attention to detail, as well as interpersonal communication.
These skills are also useful for more than administrative tasks. Many MOAs are often expected to maintain medical supplies, materials, and equipment, keep track of the inventory, and more. This requires the MOA on duty to not only be responsive and responsible but have a working knowledge of clinical procedures in order to handle these duties effectively.
Tapping Into a World of Opportunity in Your Medical Office Assistant Career
There are many different careers available for MOA students. A career in an ambulatory department, for instance, is a good opportunity for graduates to build upon the experience they gained during their studies. Hospital management often seeks candidates for ambulatory care who have a medical office assistant diploma rather than simply a diploma in office administration because it demonstrates that they can handle further responsibilities which help the clinic run smoothly. Knowledge of clinical procedures, medical terminology, and more helps graduates thrive in this role. In order to properly maintain an accurate patient record, it is necessary for a medical office assistant working in ambulatory care to be trained in these important subjects.
Do you want to complete training for a rewarding career as a medical office assistant?
