8 Best Medical Assistant Programs in Florida | 2024

Discover the best Medical Assistant programs in Florida. Learn more about their nuances as we explore their prerequisites, requirements, salary expectations after graduation, and more.

What Is a Medical Assistant Program?

A Medical Assistant program in Florida is an integrated educational program aimed at preparing individuals for a fulfilling career in the field of medical assisting. Tailored to align with Florida's healthcare industry requirements, these programs merge academic learning with practical application, equipping students for a multifaceted role in diverse healthcare settings.

Medical Assistant Coursework

The coursework in a Florida-based Medical Assistant program typically encompasses a variety of critical subjects:

• Anatomy and Physiology: This core module provides an in-depth understanding of the human body's structure and functions, essential for comprehending the various systems and their interactions.
• Medical Terminology: Proficiency in medical language is key. This course imparts the necessary terminology and communication skills for effective interaction within a healthcare environment.
• Phlebotomy: A vital skill set for medical assistants, this course focuses on the techniques of blood collection for tests, transfusions, or other medical purposes.
• Electrocardiography (EKG): Students learn to conduct EKGs, an important diagnostic tool in heart-related health issues.
• Laboratory Procedures and Techniques: This segment covers the fundamental skills required for handling and analyzing clinical specimens in medical laboratories.
• Medical Billing and Office Management: Addressing the administrative aspects of healthcare, this course includes patient billing, navigating insurance processes, and managing medical office operations.

Medical Assistant Clinical Training

Clinical training is a pivotal component of Medical Assistant programs in Florida, including:

• Internships: Many programs offer internships, providing students with hands-on experience in real healthcare settings.
• Patient Care: Training encompasses assisting in various aspects of patient care, from taking vital signs to preparing patients for medical examinations.
• Diagnostic Procedures: Students receive training in assisting with basic diagnostic procedures under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
• Emergency Response: Courses often include emergency response skills like CPR and first aid, preparing students for urgent medical situations.
• Specialized Skills: Depending on the program's focus, training may extend to specialized areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or orthopedics.

Best Medical Assistant Programs

The following schools have been selected based on allnurses' methodology of surveying our readers to understand what they value most, with the addition of graduation rates, student-faculty ratio, price, mode, duration, and admission rates of hundreds of the most prominent nursing schools in the United States.

1. Florida Career College

Florida Career College offers a Medical Assistant Technician program that can be completed in as few as 10 months. The program includes both online and in-class learning, with an emphasis on practical skills for medical office settings. Key features include:

• Hybrid Learning: Combination of online and in-class instruction.
• Externship: On-the-job training with a local employer.
• Skills Taught: Assisting with physical examinations, radiology, scheduling appointments, maintaining medical records, ECG tracing, and more.
• Career Outcomes: Graduates can work as Medical Assistants, Optometric Technicians, Chiropractic Assistants, and more in various healthcare settings.

2. Palm Beach State College

Palm Beach State College offers an Associate in Science degree in Medical Assisting Advanced. This program prepares students for both administrative and clinical roles in healthcare settings. Highlights include:

• Program Length: 2 years.
• Curriculum: Covers anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pathophysiology, accounting, insurance processing, electronic health records, laboratory techniques, clinical and diagnostic procedures, pharmaceutical principles, and medication administration.
• Externship: Included in the program for practical experience.
• Career Opportunities: Employment in physician practices, hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, ambulatory surgery centers, urgent care centers, and more.
• Certifications: Prepares for national certifications like CMA (AAMA), RMA (AMT), or CCMA (NHA).

3. Pensacola State College

Pensacola State College offers a Career Certificate in Medical Assisting, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The one-year program combines theoretical instruction with hands-on training. Key features include:

• Program Length: One year.
• Accreditation: Accredited by CAAHEP.
• Curriculum: Covers both cognitive (knowledge) and psychomotor (skills) aspects, preparing students for various roles in medical offices, clinics, and hospitals.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates can work as Medical Assistants, EKG Aides, Medical Office Receptionists, Medical Specialists, Patient Care Attendants, Pharmacy Technicians, and Phlebotomists.

4. Southern Technical College

Southern Technical College provides a Medical Assisting diploma program designed to be completed in 10 months. The program prepares students for various healthcare settings and includes hands-on learning. Key aspects include:

• Program Duration: 10 months.
• Learning Approach: Hands-on training with a focus on both administrative and clinical aspects of medical assisting.
• Certification: Eligibility to sit for the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) exam.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates can work in diagnostic laboratories, hospitals, nursing care facilities, physicians' offices, outpatient care centers, urgent care centers, and walk-in clinics.

5. Southeastern College

Southeastern College offers a comprehensive Medical Assisting program, available in both certificate and diploma formats, with an option for an Associate in Applied Science degree. The program is available in English and Spanish at selected campuses. Key aspects include:

• Program Options: Certificate, Diploma, and Associate in Applied Science Degree.
• Duration: Certificate and Diploma programs can be completed in 8 months full-time or 14 months part-time. The Associate degree takes 16 months full-time or 22 months part-time.
• Learning Formats: On-campus and hybrid options.
• Skills Taught: Laboratory tasks, clinical skills (EKG, patient assisting, vital signs, injections, venipuncture), and administrative skills.

6. Florida Technical College

Florida Technical College offers a Medical Assistant Technician Diploma Program designed for entry-level employment in medical assisting. The program includes hands-on training and preparation for various technical examinations. Key features include:

• Program Duration: 9 months.
• Curriculum: Includes Medical Office Procedures, Anatomy and Physiology with Medical Terminology, Clinical Procedures, Laboratory Procedures, Introduction to Pharmacology, Basic Cardiorespiratory Procedures, and Externship or Medical Assistant Capstone.
• Certifications: Eligibility for National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) from NCCT, CPR, First Aid, and BLS Certifications.
• Employment Opportunities: Medical Assistant, Clinical Assistant, Lab Technician, Optometric Assistant.

7. Keiser University

Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Medical Assisting, preparing students for various medical assisting duties under direct physician supervision. The program includes both clinical and administrative training. Program highlights:

• Program Length: Total of 60.5 credit hours.
• Curriculum: Includes Clinical Procedures, Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology, Radiography, Laboratory Procedures, Medical Office Management, Externship, and more.
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Educational Programs (CAAHEP).
• Career Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for roles in physician's offices, clinics, and other healthcare settings.

8. Daytona State College

Daytona State College provides a Medical Assisting Certificate program that prepares students for various roles in medical offices, ambulatory care centers, and multi-physician clinics. Key aspects of the program include:

• Curriculum: Covers Medical Terminology, Anatomy & Physiology, Pharmacology, Coding and Billing, and Clerical/Administrative skills.
• Clinical Experience: Provided in physician's offices and other healthcare settings.
• Certification: Graduates are eligible for credentialing by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
• Accreditation: Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Prerequisites & Requirements

Medical Assistant programs in Florida require that students meet certain prerequisites and requirements to ensure they're ready to meet the demands of the program and role.

Prerequisites for Medical Assistant Programs in Florida

Typical prerequisites include:

• Educational Background: A high school diploma or GED is typically required for admission. Some programs might also request academic transcripts from previous educational institutions.
• Age Requirement: Applicants are usually required to be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment.
• Health Clearance: Proof of up-to-date immunizations and a recent physical examination may be necessary. This ensures the student's capability to safely perform the tasks of a medical assistant.
• Background Check: A criminal background check is often a prerequisite to ensure the safety and integrity of the healthcare environment.
• Basic Computer Skills: With the healthcare industry increasingly digitalized, basic computer literacy is an important prerequisite.
• English Proficiency: For non-native English speakers, a good command of the English language is essential, as it is the primary mode of communication in Florida's healthcare settings.

Requirements for Medical Assistant Programs in Florida

Once enrolled in a Medical Assistant Program in Florida, students must meet the following requirements to successfully complete their training:

• Course Completion: Students are required to complete all the coursework, which typically includes subjects like medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and other relevant healthcare topics.
• Clinical Training: A specified number of hours in clinical training or internships is usually mandatory. This hands-on experience is crucial for practical learning in a real healthcare setting.
• Skill Competency: Demonstrating proficiency in key medical assistant skills, such as phlebotomy, EKG, and patient care, is essential.
• Examinations: Students may need to pass various exams, including written and practical tests, to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.
• Attendance: Regular attendance and maintaining a certain grade point average (GPA) are often required to stay in good standing within the program.
• Certification Exam: While not always mandatory, many graduates opt to take a certification exam, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, to enhance their qualifications and employment opportunities.

Medical Assistant Salary Expectations in Florida

According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for Medical Assistants in the state is $38,720, or $18.40 per hour. Medical Assistants in Florida earn slightly under the national average, with an annual salary of $37,870.

Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 14 percent from 2022 to 2023, which is much faster than the average for other occupations.

While these figures are directional, it's important to consider the various factors that affect salary expectations, such as geography, years of experience, employer, level of education, and more.

The top-paying states include:

• Washington: $50,350
• District of Columbia: $50,020
• Alaska: $49,400
• California: $47,850
• Minnesota: $47,330

Are Medical Assistant Programs Worth It in Florida?

When considering a Medical Assistant Program in Florida, it's important to balance the potential benefits against the challenges. These programs serve as an entry point into the healthcare industry but require a commitment in terms of time and resources.

Pros of Medical Assistant Programs in Florida

1. Growing Healthcare Industry: Florida's healthcare sector is on the rise, creating a growing demand for medical assistants. This trend leads to increased job opportunities and the possibility of career stability.
2. Diverse Employment Opportunities: Graduates can find employment in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, and specialized medical facilities. This diversity offers a wide range of experiences and learning opportunities.
3. Competitive Compensation: Medical assistants in Florida often enjoy competitive salaries, which can be a significant draw for those considering this career path.
4. Rapid Training and Entry into the Workforce: Medical assistant programs are typically shorter than many other healthcare training programs, often taking about a year to complete, allowing for a quicker transition into the workforce.
5. Foundation for Advancing in Healthcare: These programs provide a solid base in healthcare knowledge and skills, paving the way for further education and advancement in fields like nursing or healthcare administration.

Cons of Medical Assistant Programs in Florida

1. Cost of Education: The expense of medical assistant programs, especially in private institutions, can be a barrier for some individuals.
2. Emotionally and Physically Demanding Role: The role of a medical assistant involves dealing with patients' health, which can be emotionally taxing and physically demanding, especially in high-pressure environments.
3. Limited Scope of Practice: Compared to other healthcare professionals, medical assistants have a more limited scope of practice, which might not be suitable for those seeking greater medical responsibilities and autonomy.
4. Competitive Job Market: While there are ample job opportunities, the market in Florida can be competitive, particularly in urban areas with higher population densities.
5. Continuing Education and Recertification: To maintain their credentials, medical assistants may need to engage in ongoing education and periodic recertification, which requires additional time and financial investment.

Medical Assistant Programs in Florida can be a worthwhile pursuit for those looking to enter the healthcare field quickly, with the promise of good job prospects and competitive salaries. However, it's essential to consider the financial and personal investment, the nature of the work, and your long-term career goals before making a decision.

Medical Assistant Programs Near Me

Discover the best Medical Assistant programs in the following states:

• California
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• Texas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What kind of financial aid can students expect when enrolling in a medical assistant program in Florida?

Students enrolling in medical assistant programs may have access to various forms of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and student loans. Many institutions also offer payment plans. Prospective students should contact the financial aid office of their chosen institution to explore available options and eligibility for aid. Additionally, some healthcare facilities may offer tuition assistance for employees seeking to advance their careers through education.

Q: Can I enroll in a medical assistant program on a part-time or evening basis if I can't commit to a full-time schedule?

Many medical assistant programs in Florida offer flexible scheduling options, including part-time and evening classes, to accommodate students who may be working or have other commitments. These options provide the opportunity to gain the necessary education and clinical experience without committing to a full-time program.

Q: What does the clinical experience component of an accredited medical assistant program in Florida involve?

Accredited medical assistant programs in Florida typically include hands-on clinical experience, where students work under supervision in healthcare facilities. This experience may involve performing basic clinical procedures, assisting providers in outpatient settings, and learning various office procedures. The aim is to provide practical, real-world experience in a controlled, educational environment.

Q: Do medical assistant programs in Florida incorporate training in medical technologies?

Modern medical assistant programs place a significant emphasis on technology. Students learn to use various medical technologies and software, essential for managing patient histories, office procedures, and clinical data. Technological proficiency is crucial in today's healthcare facilities, and these skills are integral to the training.

Q: Are medical assistants trained to handle x-ray equipment and perform x-ray procedures in Florida?

In Florida, medical assistants typically do not perform x-ray procedures as part of their standard clinical duties. X-ray procedures usually require specific training and certification that is beyond the scope of standard medical assistant programs. However, some medical assistants may choose to obtain additional qualifications to expand their skill set in this area.