Are you a “people person” who enjoys involvement in the clinical world of healthcare? Do you have clerical skills and a welcoming personality? Then, a position as a medical office assistant may be just the career to utilize your natural characteristics and skillset.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for medical assistants may grow 23 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average job growth. Predictions suggest that the aging baby-boomer population will create an increased demand for medical services, which will lead to physicians hiring more assistants.

So, what exactly does a medical office assistant do?

The responsibilities begin at the point of entry where an assistant is often the first person, which a patient encounters. It can be in a variety of settings, including the doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital. After that very important first greeting, the assistant helps coordinate the patient’s visit and facilitate office operations.

Day-to-day responsibilities may include any or all the following tasks:

• Answering phones
• Checking patients in and out of the office
• Scheduling patient appointments
• Taking patient case histories
• Compiling medical records and charts
• Operating computer software and office equipment
• Maintaining office and medical supplies

Depending on the office or facility, a medical assistant may serve under a variety of titles, including—

• Unit secretary
• Medical supply specialist
• Patient coordinator
• Medical office specialist

Whether an assistant works with a large team of medical professionals in a hospital or clinic setting, or in a small doctor’s office staffed by one or two physicians, he/she plays an integral role within the facility. When coordinating services among several specialty physicians or when scheduling appointments for the local primary care physician, the medical assistant performs many of the tasks that keep the office or facility running smoothly for all involved. Many assistants excel at connecting with patients as well as bridging the gap between the physician and patient.

For most qualified assistants, a combination of education, previous job experience, certifications, and technical skills prepares them to perform well in the role of a medical office assistant.

While no formal education or training requirements have been established for medical assistants, nearly all medical assistants hold a high school diploma or equivalent and complete a medical assisting program, either through a vocational school or community college. In general, one-year programs lead to diplomas or certificates, while an associate degree will require two years.

As Maine’s leading staffing provider, Springborn Staffing specializes in finding mutually beneficial connections between our candidates and our clients. Pairing best-match talent with premier healthcare facilities is what we at Springborn do every day. From temp staffing to direct hire, we do more than make promises. We make a difference. Contact our team of staffing specialists to see what Springborn can do to assist you in reaching your career goals.