Call Now 1-800-455-4700
 
 

1-800-455-4700

First Name:  
Last Name:  
Address:  
City:  
State:  
Zip:  
Phone:  
Can we text you at this number?
Email:    
Best Time to Call:
Enter code shown:
Security Check



CNI will not sell or distribute any of your information to any third parties.
Read our Privacy Policy.
College Affiliations:
  • - NSCA National Strength and Conditioning
      Association
  • - Accrediting Bureau of Health Education
      Schools
  • - California Association of Private
      Postsecondary Schools
  • - American Massage Therapy Association
  • - Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
CNI Vocational School > Medical Assisting School > Medical Assistant Frequently Asked Questions >
Medical Assistant Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Medical Assistant?
Trusted to keep medical documents safe, medical assistants are an indispensable force in physicians' offices. In smaller offices, medical assistants take on both administrative and clinical responsibilities.

Strong organizational skills are essential for the job. Medical assistants must often work in a customer service capacity, handling correspondence and scheduling appointments. Because they often serve as a link between patients and medical personnel, assistants must have strong communication skills.

^ Back to top

What are the working conditions for a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants work in well-lighted, clean environments. Medical assistants can specialize in ophthalmic, optometric, or podiatric capabilities, or they can stick to general practice in general medical and surgical hospitals. They constantly interact with other people and may have to handle several responsibilities at once. Most full-time medical assistants work a regular 40-hour week. However, many medical assistants work part time, evenings, or weekends.

^ Back to top

Is Medical Assistant a growing career?
According to the California Employment Development Department, "Medical Assistant employment is projected to grow 39.1% in Orange County from 2006-2016. Job opportunities should be excellent, particularly for those with formal medical assistant training."

Demand for medical assistants continues to grow, especially in the US where the nursing shortage has required many doctor’s offices to rely more heavily on medical assistants to perform basic tasks, like first contact with a patient, taking blood pressure or medical histories.

^ Back to top

Do Medical Assistants need to be licensed or certified?
In the state of California, Medical Assistants are not required to be licensed or certified. However, having a certification that is recognized by The Medical Board of California is looked favorably upon by potential employers. The Medical Board of California recognizes California Certified Medical Assistant, Certified Medical Assistant, & Registered Medical Assistant certifications.

^ Back to top