Medical Assisting: Career information
Career overview
The Medical Assisting program is well-known throughout the medical community and the program will receive local, regional, and national job listings throughout the year. While the program does not place graduates, job openings are posted through Cascade Campus Career Center and students can be notified via e-mail of such opportunities. The clinical coordinator will arrange time for students to meet with Career Services throughout the term. The college cannot guarantee or promise employment upon graduation.
Career outlook
The job outlook for medical assistants in Portland, Oregon is very positive. The Oregon Employment Department forecasts a 23.3% job growth through 2032. This growth is attributed to the aging population, increased demand for healthcare services, and the expanding role of medical assistants in healthcare teams.
Scope of practice
In Oregon, medical assistants work under the supervision of licensed healthcare providers, such as physicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants. Their scope of practice includes both clinical and administrative tasks and is based on their education, training, and experience.
Certification and licensure
While not required in Oregon, the majority of employers do require medical assistants to be nationally credentialed. Obtaining a national certification demonstrates a graduate’s competence and commitment to the profession. The most recognized certification is the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) credential offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) (see below). To be eligible for the CMA exam, students must graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited medical assisting program, like the one offered at PCC.
Credentialing exam
Students who successfully complete the MA program are eligible to take the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) national credentialing examination to receive Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) certification. Applications must be completed and fees payable at least four weeks prior to graduation. The program staff will provide the necessary information prior to the time applications must be submitted. Students will be expected to pay the application fee during the beginning of the third term in order to take the national exam at graduation. Fees can range from $125–$170.
Legal limitations for AAMA certified medical assistant certification
Individuals who have been found guilty of a felony, or pleaded guilty to a felony, are not eligible to take the AAMA credentialing exam. However, the certifying board may grant a waiver based on mitigating circumstances. See the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) CMA examination application steps for specific details.
Occupational risks
Medical Assisting is a healthcare profession in which both clinical and administrative tasks are performed. Medical assistants work directly with patients, providers and other healthcare workers. It is a profession that focuses on providing a high level of patient care as well as being responsible for patient safety.
It is important to recognize that this role comes with certain occupational risks. The occupational hazards associated with being a medical assistant include:
- Exposure to infectious disease
- Injuries due to sharps
- Bloodborne pathogen exposure and biological hazards
- Chemical and drug exposure
- Ergonomic hazards from lifting, sitting, and repetitive tasks
- Latex allergies
- Stress
There are protections set in place with the Occupational Safety & Health Act (OSHA) to help protect the safety of healthcare workers and patients. Within PCC’s Medical Assisting program, students will learn more about these occupational hazards and what is put in place to help ensure a safe workplace.
Professional associations
Joining a professional organization can offer many benefits, such as networking opportunities, continuing education resources, and advocacy for the profession. Some relevant organizations for medical assistants include:
- American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA): The AAMA is the leading professional organization for medical assistants, offering certification, advocacy, and educational resources.
- Oregon Society of Medical Assistants (OSMA): OSMA is a state-level organization that provides networking, education, and support for medical assistants in Oregon.