What is a Senior Medical Assistant Job?
A Senior Medical Assistant is an experienced healthcare professional who provides administrative and clinical support to physicians, nurses and other healthcare professionals. They are responsible for ensuring that patients receive the highest level of care possible and assist with a variety of tasks including taking patient histories, recording vitals and administering medication. Senior Medical Assistants may work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
What do Senior Medical Assistants Usually Do in This Position?
A Senior Medical Assistant performs a variety of tasks, both administrative and clinical, to support physicians and other healthcare professionals. Their duties may include:
- Recording patients' medical history and vital signs
- Assisting physicians during examinations and medical procedures
- Preparing and administering medications as directed by physicians
- Drawing blood and collecting specimens for laboratory testing
- Performing diagnostic tests and interpreting results
- Scheduling appointments and managing patient records
- Billing patients and insurance companies
- Providing patient education and support
Top 5 Skills for Senior Medical Assistant Position
To be successful as a Senior Medical Assistant, you need to possess a combination of technical and soft skills. Some of the top skills that are essential for this position include:
- Attention to detail: As a Senior Medical Assistant, you need to be precise and accurate in all aspects of your work, from recording patient information to administering medication.
- Interpersonal skills: You will be working closely with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals, so strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
- Technical skills: You should be familiar with electronic health records (EHRs), medical billing software, and other healthcare technology.
- Time management: You will be juggling multiple tasks and patients at once, so good time management skills are crucial.
- Critical thinking: You need to be able to make quick decisions and solve problems on the spot, especially in emergency situations.
How to Become a Senior Medical Assistant Specialist?
To become a Senior Medical Assistant, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a medical assisting program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs typically take one to two years to complete and include courses in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures.
After completing a medical assisting program, you may choose to become certified by taking an exam administered by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcare Association (NHA). Certification is not required to work as a medical assistant, but it can enhance your job prospects and earning potential.
Average Salary of Senior Medical Assistant
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for medical assistants, including Senior Medical Assistants, was $35,850 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and type of healthcare facility.
Roles and Types of Senior Medical Assistants
Senior Medical Assistants may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Within these settings, they may have different roles and responsibilities. Some of the different types of Senior Medical Assistants include:
- Administrative Senior Medical Assistants: These professionals focus on the administrative side of healthcare, such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and billing patients and insurance companies.
- Clinical Senior Medical Assistants: These professionals focus on the clinical side of healthcare, such as taking patient histories, recording vitals, and administering medication.
- Specialty Senior Medical Assistants: These professionals work in specialized areas of healthcare, such as cardiology, obstetrics, or pediatrics.
Locations with the Most Popular Senior Medical Assistant Jobs in the USA
Senior Medical Assistant jobs are available throughout the United States, but some areas have more opportunities than others. According to the BLS, the states with the highest employment levels for medical assistants, including Senior Medical Assistants, as of May 2020 were:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
What are the Typical Tools Used by Senior Medical Assistants?
Senior Medical Assistants use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their job duties, including:
- Electronic health records (EHRs) and medical billing software
- Blood pressure cuffs, stethoscopes, and other medical equipment
- Needles, syringes, and other medical supplies
- Computers, printers, and other office equipment
- Medical reference books and other educational materials
In Conclusion
Senior Medical Assistants play a crucial role in the healthcare industry, providing essential support to physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. With the right combination of technical and soft skills, as well as the necessary education and certification, you can pursue a rewarding career in this field. Whether you choose to work in a hospital, clinic, or private practice, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are making a difference in the lives of patients every day.