United States Medical Assistant

To become a medical assistant in the USA, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. While formal education is not always necessary, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a medical assisting program from an accredited institution. These programs typically last one to two years and can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, and online universities. Medical assisting programs cover a range of topics including medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical billing and coding, and clinical procedures. They also provide hands-on training in a clinical setting, allowing students to gain practical experience. Upon completion of a program, aspiring medical assistants can further improve their knowledge and skills by obtaining certification through organizations like the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the American Medical Technologists (AMT).