Why should you add on to your education with a medical assistant class? If you've never considered a medical assistant program, take a look at the benefits of a career in this healthcare profession.

The Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical assistant jobs are on the rise. The statistics show a projected 23 percent growth rate between 2018 and 2028. That's a much faster than average increase in comparison to other jobs.

If the BLS's projections are accurate, you can expect more than 154,000 new jobs in the field by 2028. The high job growth expectations may mean you may have an easier time finding employment after you complete a medical assisting program.

The Pay

Are you tired of your minimum wage job? As of 2019, the federal minimum wage was set at $7.25 (some states set local laws with higher wages). In 2018 the median pay for a medical assistant was $33,610 per year or $16.16 per hour, according to the BLS. This is more than twice the federal minimum wage.

The Schedule Flexibility

Do you need a flexible work schedule? Whether you have family obligations, another job, or you want to continue your education, medical assisting provides you with plenty of scheduling options. While some medical assistants work in doctor's offices that offer a regular Monday through Friday nine to five schedule, other healthcare facilities (such as hospitals) provide employees with other options.

You may have the opportunity to work evenings, overnights, or weekends. This opens your schedule and allows you to create an overall life balance.

The Work Environment

Not only will you have a variety of scheduling options, but as an assistant, you'll also have plenty of alternatives when it comes to where you work. Medical assistants work in doctor's offices, hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, nursing homes, mental health clinics, and other similar healthcare environments.

The Ability to Help

Doctors and nurses aren't the only professionals who help patients in the healthcare setting. Medical assistants play critical roles in supporting the provider. As an assistant, you'll have the chance to interact with patients and their families.

Whether this is when they come into the doctor's office or as part of an exam or procedure, you'll get to help the patient through their appointment and provide the support the rest of the medical staff needs.

A solid education is the first step in your career as a medical assistant. After you complete a medical assistant class or program, you'll have the qualifications to work as this needed healthcare professional.