- Table of Contents:
- Medical Assistant Overview
- Best Medical Assistant Programs
- Prerequisites & Requirements
- Salary Expectations
- Pros & Cons
- Accrediting Bodies
- Programs Near Me
- FAQ
-
by
allnurses (Editorial Team / Admin)
Discover the best Medical Assistant programs in Michigan, including detailed information about their prerequisites, requirements, salary expectations after graduation, and more. Whether you'd like to apply to a program today or just generally curious about the role, you've come to the right place.
What Is a Medical Assistant Program in Michigan?
Medical Assistant programs in Michigan are offered through various accredited institutions across the state, including community colleges, technical schools, and private educational facilities. The curriculum is developed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform both administrative and clinical duties in a wide range of healthcare settings, such as physicians' offices, hospitals, clinics, and outpatient facilities.
Medical Assistant Coursework
The coursework in a Medical Assistant program in Michigan typically includes a blend of classroom instruction and practical application in the following areas:
- Medical Terminology: Learning the language of medicine to communicate effectively with other healthcare professionals and understand medical records.
- Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the structure and function of the human body to assist in patient care and diagnostic procedures.
- Clinical Procedures: Gaining skills in patient care techniques, including taking vital signs, administering injections, and assisting with minor surgeries.
- Pharmacology: Learning about medications, their uses, and how to administer them safely.
- Medical Law and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical considerations in healthcare to ensure patient privacy and professional conduct.
- Medical Billing and Coding: Acquiring knowledge of the healthcare billing process, including coding diagnoses and procedures for insurance claims.
- Patient Relations: Developing interpersonal skills to interact effectively with patients, including communication, empathy, and customer service.
- Administrative Practices: Learning office procedures, such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, and using healthcare software.
Medical Assistant Clinical Training
Clinical training is a critical component of Medical Assistant programs in Michigan, providing hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare environment. This training typically includes:
- Externships: Placement in a healthcare facility, such as a clinic or physician's office, to apply learned skills under the supervision of medical professionals.
- Patient Care: Practicing direct patient care tasks, such as conducting patient interviews, taking medical histories, and preparing patients for examinations.
- Laboratory Procedures: Gaining experience in collecting and processing laboratory specimens, performing basic lab tests, and understanding lab safety protocols.
- Diagnostic Testing: Learning to perform diagnostic tests, such as electrocardiograms (EKGs) and basic radiography, under supervision.
- Medication Administration: Practicing safe administration of medications, including oral and injectable forms, under the guidance of healthcare providers.
Best Medical Assistant Programs in Michigan - Online & On-Campus
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. Davenport University
Davenport University offers a Medical Assistant Certificate Program designed to provide students with the essential skills and knowledge needed for a successful healthcare career. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through hands-on learning and clinical experiences.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers a wide range of topics, including human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, health care law and ethics, clinical patient care, and medical office applications.
- Clinical and Laboratory Skills: Students will learn clinical patient care techniques, clinical laboratory procedures, and how to perform basic laboratory tests. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of accurate clinical and historical patient data, patient education and safety, and assisting with medical office procedures.
- Practicum Experience: The program includes a Medical Assisting Practicum, allowing students to gain clinical and administrative experience in a healthcare facility. This practicum is designed to prepare students for successful employment by working 180 hours in a healthcare setting.
- Certification Preparation: The course prepares students for the American Medical Assisting Association Certification Exam (CMA) or the American Medical Technologist's Registered Medical Assistant Exam (RMA), with mandatory registration for either exam included in the practicum course.
2. Dorsey Business School
Dorsey Business School offers a Medical Assistant program that covers both clinical and administrative skills required for success in doctors' offices, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, providing a well-rounded education for students.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Instruction includes First Aid and CPR, taking and recording vital signs, phlebotomy, administering injections, performing EKGs, medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, electronic health records, medical insurance processing, and more.
- Hands-On Training: The program emphasizes a "learn by doing" approach, offering hands-on training to help students master the necessary skills for working in the field.
- Externship Experience: Includes an externship at the end of the program, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in an occupational setting, gaining valuable real-world experience and professional exposure.
- Duration: The Medical Assistant program can be completed in just one year, offering a fast track to entering the healthcare workforce.
3. Ross Medical Education Center
Ross Medical Education Center's Medical Assistant program is designed to prepare students for successful careers in this growing field, with a focus on certification and real-world experience.
Program Highlights:
- Externship Experience: A key component of the Ross Medical Assistant program is the externship experience, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world healthcare setting. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing practical skills and making students more attractive to potential employers.
- Certification Preparation: Ross understands the importance of certification in the medical assisting field. The program prepares graduates for the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) certification exam offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT), with Ross offering reimbursement for graduates who take the certification exam.
- No Waiting Period for Externships: Unlike some other programs, Ross does not require a waiting period for externships, demonstrating their commitment to students' success and timely completion of the program.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including patient care, medical terminology, phlebotomy, EKG, and administrative duties such as billing and coding, ensuring graduates are versatile and competent in various aspects of medical assisting.
4. Southwestern Michigan College
Southwestern Michigan College offers a Medical Assisting program designed to train healthcare professionals to support medical clinics and offices efficiently. This program prepares students for entry-level positions as medical assistants, focusing on both clinical and administrative duties.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Students learn to perform clinical, diagnostic, and lab procedures, with an introduction to pharmacology, medical terminology, diseases, insurance claims processing, and office administration. Practical skills include maintaining patient records and taking blood pressure.
- Hands-on Clinical Training: The program includes hands-on clinical training to solidify students' skills, ensuring they are confident and ready to begin their careers upon graduation.
- EPIC Program Participation: This program is part of the EPIC (Educational Programs in Collaboration) program, allowing students to complete certain courses at their "degree-granting" institution and the remainder online through Southwestern Michigan College, the "provider" college.
- Flexible Online Courses: The nine courses offered through Southwestern Michigan College are delivered online via the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS), providing flexibility for students.
- Cost: For the 2023-2024 academic year, the EPIC rate is $204 per credit hour with a $206 flat rate fee per course. Courses offered through the degree-granting institution are charged at that institution's rate.
5. Carnegie Institute
Carnegie Institute has stood out as a leader in Medical Assistant training since 1947, offering a program that combines online and practical application classes in a hybrid training format. This approach ensures students receive a thorough education, equipping them with the required skills and competencies for a successful career in medical assisting.
Program Highlights:
- Hybrid Training: The program's blend of online classes and hands-on practical application allows for flexible learning while ensuring comprehensive skill development.
- Small Class Sizes: Carnegie Institute emphasizes personalized instruction with small class sizes, ensuring students receive individual attention from experienced faculty.
- Diverse Skill Set: Students are trained in clinical nursing skills, diagnostic equipment usage, lab tests, medical office management procedures, anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, medical law & ethics, phlebotomy, injections, ECG, laboratory sciences, medical insurance billing & coding, and computer applications.
- Critical Skills Development: Beyond technical skills, the program focuses on cultivating therapeutic communication skills, human relations, and critical thinking & problem-solving abilities.
6. Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Kalamazoo Valley Community College offers a one-year certificate program in Medical Assistant Technology, accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) upon the recommendation of the Medical Assisting Education Review Board (MAERB). This program is designed to prepare students as competent entry-level medical assistants, covering the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Training: Students receive training in both administrative and clinical skills necessary for employment in ambulatory care settings.
- Certification Eligibility: Graduates are immediately eligible to sit for the AAMA Certification Examination. Successful completion allows them to practice as a CMA (AAMA) anywhere in the United States or its territories.
- Special Application: Interested students should note that this program requires a special application packet, and they are encouraged to consult a health careers pathway advisor or counselor for more information.
7. Jackson College
Jackson College offers a Medical Assistant program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the healthcare field. This program emphasizes comprehensive education in both clinical and administrative skills, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to support healthcare professionals and provide quality patient care.
Program Highlights:
- Fast Track to Certification: The program can be completed in as little as 10 months, offering a quick path to entering the healthcare workforce.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Classes cover a wide range of necessary skills and knowledge, including patient care, medical terminology, and administrative tasks, preparing students for the multifaceted role of a medical assistant.
- Practicum Experience: The program includes a practicum experience, allowing students to work with a licensed healthcare practitioner and apply their learned skills in a real-world setting.
8. Macomb Community College
Macomb Community College offers a Medical Assistant program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the healthcare industry. This program focuses on training students to perform both administrative and clinical duties, equipping them with the skills necessary to support medical practices efficiently.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum covers a wide range of topics essential for medical assistants, including patient care, medical terminology, pharmacology, medical law & ethics, and administrative tasks like billing and coding.
- Technical Standards: Macomb Community College has established technical standards for admission, progression, and graduation, emphasizing the importance of physical standards, tactile standards, visual standards, auditory standards, communication standards, and mental/cognitive standards essential for the delivery of safe, effective clinical care.
9. Baker College
The Medical Assistant Certificate Program at Baker College prepares students for vital roles in healthcare settings, focusing on patient care, administrative tasks, and clinical procedures. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to enter the workforce and contribute effectively to the healthcare team.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible Learning Options: The program accommodates students from various locations by offering classes on-campus in Cadillac and Owosso, as well as online courses through OnlineLive.
- Wide Reach: Baker College serves students not only from across Michigan, including Ann Arbor, Auburn Hills, Cadillac, Dearborn, Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Jackson, Lansing, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, Owosso, and Traverse City, but also from other states such as Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, through its online program.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary clinical and administrative skills required in the medical assisting profession.
10. Lake Michigan College
Lake Michigan College offers both degree and certificate programs in Medical Assisting, designed for individuals who excel at multitasking and organization, and enjoy working with people. These programs prepare students for a dynamic career in medical assisting, where they can expect a mix of office and clinical tasks, ensuring no two days are the same.
Program Highlights:
- Versatile Career Paths: Whether you prefer the fast pace of a hospital or lab, or the more personal patient care available in a doctor's office, medical assisting offers varied environments to suit different preferences.
- Diverse Responsibilities: Students are trained to handle a wide range of tasks, from filing charts and scheduling patients to performing clinical duties like taking blood pressure.
- Program Options: Lake Michigan College provides options for students to pursue either a degree or a certificate in Medical Assisting, catering to different educational and career goals.
Medical Assistant Prerequisites & Requirements
Enrolling in a Medical Assistant program in Michigan involves meeting specific prerequisites and fulfilling certain requirements throughout the program. These criteria are designed to ensure that students are well-prepared for the rigors of the program and can transition into the healthcare workforce upon completion.
Prerequisites of Medical Assistant Programs in Michigan
- High School Diploma or GED: Applicants must have completed high school or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
- Minimum Age Requirement: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old by the time they complete the program.
- Health Immunizations: Up-to-date immunizations are often required to protect the health and safety of students and patients they will interact with during clinical training.
- Background Check: A clean criminal background check is usually necessary due to the sensitive nature of the work environment and patient interactions.
- Basic Computer Skills: With the increasing use of electronic health records (EHRs) and other digital tools in healthcare, basic computer literacy is often a prerequisite.
- CPR Certification: Some programs may require applicants to have current CPR certification at the healthcare provider level before starting clinical rotations.
Requirements of Medical Assistant Programs in Michigan
- Coursework Completion: Students must complete all required coursework, which covers a range of administrative and clinical skills necessary for the role of a medical assistant.
- Clinical Hours: Completion of a specified number of clinical hours or an externship is required, providing hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
- CPR Certification: Obtaining or maintaining CPR certification is often a requirement for graduation, ensuring students are prepared to respond to emergencies.
- Competency Exams: Students may need to pass competency exams that assess their skills and knowledge in various areas of medical assisting.
- Certification Exam: Although not always mandatory, many programs prepare students to take a certification exam, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), which is highly recommended for employment prospects.
- Professional Behavior: Students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior and adhere to ethical standards throughout the program, including during clinical rotations.
Medical Assistant Salary Expectations in Michigan
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. This is slightly higher than the average for Michigan, which is $37,190.
Employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 14 percent from 2022 to 2032, 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 Michigan?
Deciding whether to pursue a Medical Assistant program in Michigan involves evaluating the potential benefits and drawbacks.
Pros of Medical Assistant Programs in Michigan
- High Demand for Medical Assistants: Michigan's healthcare industry is expanding, leading to a high demand for medical assistants in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. This growth translates to job security and numerous employment opportunities for graduates.
- Short Duration of Training: Most Medical Assistant programs can be completed in about one to two years, allowing graduates to enter the workforce relatively quickly compared to other healthcare professions that require more extensive education.
- Diverse Work Environments: Medical assistants have the flexibility to work in various healthcare settings, including primary care, specialty clinics, hospitals, and outpatient facilities. This diversity can lead to a more dynamic and fulfilling career.
- Stepping Stone for Further Education and Career Advancement: Completing a Medical Assistant program can serve as a foundation for further education in healthcare, such as nursing or healthcare administration. It provides practical experience and knowledge that can be beneficial in advanced healthcare roles.
- Competitive Salary and Benefits: Medical assistants in Michigan can expect competitive salaries and benefits packages. While starting salaries vary, the potential for wage increases and benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans contribute to the overall value of pursuing this career.
Cons of Medical Assistant Programs in Michigan
- Cost of Education: Tuition and associated costs for Medical Assistant programs can be a financial burden for some students. While less expensive than four-year degrees, these costs can still add up, especially when considering textbooks, uniforms, and certification exams. Fortunately, there are affordable medical assistant programs available.
- Emotional and Physical Demands: The role of a medical assistant can be both physically and emotionally demanding. Long hours on your feet, dealing with sick or distressed patients, and managing a high workload can be challenging.
- Limited Scope of Practice: Medical assistants work under the supervision of healthcare providers and are limited in the procedures they can perform. Some individuals may find this limited scope of practice less fulfilling than other healthcare roles that offer more autonomy.
- Need for Certification and Continuing Education: To remain competitive and meet employer expectations, medical assistants often need to obtain certification and pursue continuing education. This requires additional time, effort, and financial resources.
- Job Competition: In certain areas of Michigan, especially in highly populated regions, the job market for medical assistants can be competitive. New graduates may face competition for the best positions, particularly in sought-after healthcare facilities.
Ultimately, deciding whether a Medical Assistant program in Michigan is worth it depends on your career goals and financial situation.
Importance of Attending an Accredited Medical Assistant Program in Michigan
Choosing an accredited Medical Assistant program in Michigan is crucial for several reasons:
- Quality Education: Accreditation ensures the program meets high standards for curriculum, faculty, and student resources, providing a quality education that prepares students for the workforce.
- Certification Eligibility: Graduates from accredited programs are eligible to sit for national certification exams, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, which is often required by employers.
- Employment Opportunities: Employers prefer hiring graduates from accredited programs, recognizing their comprehensive training and readiness for the medical assisting role.
- Transfer Credits: Credits from an accredited program are more likely to be accepted by other institutions if you decide to pursue further education.
The primary accrediting bodies for Medical Assistant programs are the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Medical Assistant Programs Near Me
Discover the best Medical Assistant programs in the following states:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I enroll in a Medical Assistant program in Michigan part-time while working?
Many Medical Assistant programs in Michigan offer flexible scheduling options, including part-time enrollment, to accommodate students who are working. These programs understand the need for students to balance their education with employment and often provide evening or weekend classes to meet this demand.
How many credit hours are typically required to complete a Medical Assistant program in Michigan?
The number of credit hours required to complete a Medical Assistant program in Michigan varies by institution and the type of credential pursued (certificate, diploma, or associate degree). Generally, certificate and diploma programs may require between 30 to 60 credit hours, while associate degree programs typically require around 60 to 70 credit hours.
Are there financial aid options available for Medical Assistant students in Michigan?
Students enrolled in Medical Assistant programs in Michigan may qualify for various forms of financial aid, including federal grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. Prospective students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and consult with their school's financial aid office to explore all available options.
What is the average class size for Medical Assistant courses in Michigan?
Class sizes for Medical Assistant courses in Michigan can vary depending on the institution. However, many programs aim to keep class sizes small to medium to ensure personalized attention and better hands-on training experiences for students, especially during lab and clinical sessions.
How does the practicum or externship component of the Medical Assistant program work?
The practicum or externship component of a Medical Assistant program in Michigan provides students with real-world experience in a healthcare setting, such as a physician's office, clinic, or hospital. This component typically occurs toward the end of the program and involves students working under the supervision of medical professionals to perform clinical tasks and administrative duties. The duration and specific requirements of the practicum or externship vary by program but are crucial for applying classroom knowledge to practical situations and gaining valuable work experience before graduation.
