Do you think its necessary to get an associates degree in medical assisting over a certificate?

Question

Looking at two schools keiser career university and san joaquin college

Answer 1

I would not worry about getting a degree in MA. Getting certified after a diploma consists of paying alot og money to take a test and get that piece of paper that says you are certified. But thats all it is a piece of paper. I have a diploma and that is more than most that do the work of a MA. If you want ot work in a hospital its better to go into nursing. If you want to work in a DRs office generally just a MA diploma is enough. A plain ole technical college in your area would be sufficient to obtain this diploma. Good Luck!

Answer 2

I've actually heard that there are not too many jobs for the MA (or medical biller or coder). Perhaps you could look for a job under another title such as receptionist or medical records clerk. Some are recommending instead getting a diploma in lpn (licensed practical nurse). I'm not sure if the aforementioned schools are accredited by the department of education and with the industry field. I would beware if they are 'online schools'. There is a website created by former students of university of phoenix, another online school that is for-profit, that were 'less than satisfied' not in so many words ;) http://www.uopsucks.com

There is also a website where former consumers can post complaints about companies or 'professionals' or services: http://www.ripoffreport.com

For US colleges: http://www.utexas.edu/world/univ

For career info: http://www.bls.gov/oco and search 'medical assistant' or 'licensed practical nurse' or such.

I would stick with the lesser expensive (and well-known) schools such as the county vo-tech or community college in case one has difficulty finding employment. The associate's degree may provide a more well-rounded education and be a springboard for possibly continuing onto a bachelor's degree in the future.

Answer 3

depends on what you want to accomplish as a medical assistant.....if you want to work in a clinic, you will have a better chance of getting hired with the degree, and if you want to work in a hospital it is practically required. The certificate would be acceptable in a nursing home, or perhaps in an area where it is difficult to find employees.
Most employers like those degrees.

Answer 4

No-I'm an LPN and started out as a medical assistant. If you have to obtain an associates degree, you may as well go get a nursing degree and actually make some money when you graduate!

Answer 5

No, because NEITHER profession is recognized by the state nor regulated.

Medical assisting programs at colleges are the biggest scam in education right now. It is EXTREMELY difficult to find jobs being an MA with no experience b/c doctors are permitted, by law, to train their own, and usually do.

You would be lucky to make $8 an hour.

Answer 6

a PA is surprisingly plenty a physician. they prepare under a physician, sometimes with out. they only cant write scripts for narcotics. a scientific assistant is like 2 months of faculty, i dont even think of you are able to draw blood with out the greater phlebotomy instructions.