Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in Missouri

Medical assistants are an essential part of the medical process. They provide help to doctors and patients by assisting with administrative duties, as well as lab and patient care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 19% from 2019 to 2029 due to the need for medical assistants across the US–not just in Missouri. You can obtain a medical assisting education in the form of an online program in Missouri. To find out more, continue reading below.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Missouri

It may be challenging to find an online medical assistant program based in Missouri, but there is one hybrid program that is well-liked. It's offered by Midwest Institute. If you're already working in the medical field, consider expressing your interest in becoming a medical assistant to your colleagues or supervisors. They may know of online medical assisting programs that would be a good fit for you, or at the very least, they may be able to point you in the right direction.

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Missouri

In Missouri, medical assistants are not required to obtain licensure or certification from state organizations in order to work in the medical field. However, earning certification through a recognized organization can help you stand out when it comes to the application process and enhance your professional qualifications.

To become a certified medical assistant in Missouri, you can follow these general steps:

Education and Training: Complete an accredited medical assistant program that meets the criteria set by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills.

Certification Exam: After completing your education, you may choose to take a certification exam offered by organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA. These exams assess your understanding of various medical assistant competencies, including clinical and administrative tasks.

Application Submission: Once you pass the certification exam, you can submit your application for certification to the respective organization. Follow their specific guidelines and provide any required documentation, including proof of education, training, and exam results. Pay the necessary fees as specified by the organization.

Certification Issuance: Upon successful completion of the application process and meeting the certification requirements, the organization will issue your medical assistant certification. This certification demonstrates your competency and validates your qualifications as a medical assistant.

While there are no specific state organizations for medical assistant certification in Missouri, obtaining certification from nationally recognized organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA can greatly enhance your professional qualifications and increase your job prospects. These certifications are widely recognized and respected in the healthcare industry, including in Missouri.

To stay updated with any changes or requirements specific to Missouri, you can visit the Missouri Board of Healing Arts website or contact the Missouri State Medical Association. These state organizations can provide information and resources related to the practice of medical assistants in Missouri and any regulatory updates that may affect your career.

Where Can I Find a Job as a Medical Assistant in Missouri?

With the recent medical professional shortage, it's fairly easy to find medical assistant positions everywhere you look. Finding one that works for you can be as simple as looking on job boards or contacting your local medical centers, hospitals, and nursing homes directly to see if they have any positions available. In Missouri, for example, try contacting Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Lukes’s Hospital, or Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Missouri?

According to Salary.com, the salary range for medical assistants in Missouri is $32,000 to $43,000. The exact amount you will make in a year will depend on how experienced you are, what part of the state you work in, and any specialties you've acquired.

Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Missouri.