Medical assistants help leading physicians take care of patients. They interview and record patients' medical information, measure their vital signs, weight and height. They also show patients to examination rooms and gather the necessary information to prepare them for the physician. Medical assistants may also be in charge of preparing and administering medications as directed by a physician, and they record and understand many different laboratory and diagnostic tests. Additionally, they may collect, prepare and log blood, tissue, plasma or other laboratory specimens. Medical assistants may also assist with administrative duties including scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing and coding for insurance purposes.
Medical assistants work entirely indoors in a laboratory, hospital, or private clinic. They may also be required to work with nurses, additional assistants and other medical staff.
Medical assistants' jobs are generally not physically demanding, unless heavy medical equipment must be used. They are required to have basic medical knowledge, but they must also be able to gain the trust of each and every patient in order to ensure the best possible office visit. Medical assistants' work hours may vary depending upon whether they work in a hospital or private clinic, but many work standard 9-5 hours during the week.
Medical Assistant Tasks
- Prepare and administer medications as directed by a physician.
- Interview and record patients' medical information and measure their vital signs, weight, and height.
- Collect, prepare and log blood, tissue or other laboratory specimens.
- Show patients to examination rooms and prepare them for the physician.
- May assist with administrative duties including scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, billing, and coding for insurance purposes.
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