Learn more about online medical assisting courses and training. Find information on programs, training, job growth and salary. View popular medical assisting schools that prepare students for careers as medical assistants.
Popular Courses
The curriculum within an online medical assisting program may include several medical-based courses and general education classes. Students enrolled in these programs may learn how to record patient histories and process billing information. They may also learn how to help physicians with patient examinations. These courses may teach students how to record medical codes given by medical professionals and send patient information to insurance companies for payment. In addition, students may study medical terminology and explain the structure and functions of the human body. Popular online medical assisting courses may include:
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Procedures
- Patient Relations
- Medical Office Environment
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Medical Coding
- Medical Transcription
Popular Programs
Individuals interested in medical assisting programs may enroll in a career diploma, certificate, or associate degree program. A career diploma may take several months to complete, and students may gain a solid foundation in medical administration. The certificate program may take a couple of months to one year to complete, and it may prepare students with the skills needed to organize and assist medical offices. The associate degree program may take one to two years to complete, and students may gain hands-on experience through externship opportunities. Graduates may qualify to sit for certification exams given by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Job Outlook & Salary
Upon completing an online medical assisting program, students may find career opportunities in surgical facilities, hospitals, outpatient care centers, nursing homes, rehabilitation offices, and physicians’ offices. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as medical assistants are expected to increase by 31% from 2010-2020. This potential increase is due to the growth of the baby-boom population needing medical services, requiring a need for physicians and medical assistants. Additionally, medical assistants may replace the more expensive workers, such as nurses, and perform clinical and administrative roles. The BLS also reported that medical assistants earned an annual median salary of $29,370 and a median hourly salary of $14.12 as of 2012.