- 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 Ohio, 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 Ohio?
Medical Assistant Programs are specialized educational pathways designed to prepare students for careers in the healthcare field. These programs are offered through various institutions, including community colleges, technical schools, and vocational training centers across Ohio. The curriculum is structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for performing administrative and clinical tasks in medical offices, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
Medical Assistant Coursework
The coursework in a Medical Assistant Program typically covers a broad range of subjects to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills. Common courses include:
- Medical Terminology: Understanding the language used in healthcare settings.
- Anatomy and Physiology: Basic knowledge of the human body and its functions.
- Clinical Procedures: Techniques for assisting in patient examinations and treatments.
- Pharmacology: Basics of medication types, uses, and administration.
- Medical Law and Ethics: Understanding the legal and ethical considerations in healthcare.
- Medical Billing and Coding: Introduction to the coding systems and billing processes used in healthcare.
- Patient Relations: Skills for interacting with patients, including communication and customer service.
- Administrative Practices: Office procedures, scheduling, and electronic health records management.
Medical Assistant Clinical Training
Clinical training is a crucial component of Medical Assistant Programs, providing hands-on experience in a real-world healthcare setting. This training typically includes:
- Externships: Placement in a medical office, clinic, or hospital to gain practical experience under supervision.
- Patient Care: Skills in taking vital signs, preparing patients for examination, and assisting with procedures.
- Laboratory Procedures: Basic lab skills, including drawing blood, preparing specimens, and performing simple lab tests.
- EKG Administration: Training on how to perform electrocardiograms.
- Injection and Phlebotomy Techniques: Skills for administering injections and performing venipunctures.
- Emergency Procedures: Basic first aid and CPR certification.
Best Medical Assistant Programs in Ohio - 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. Zane State College
The Medical Assisting Program at Zane State College is meticulously designed to prepare students to become competent medical assistants, well-versed in cognitive knowledge, psychomotor skills, and affective behavior. This program ensures that graduates are the linchpin in fostering cooperative relationships between patients and physicians, equipped to perform both administrative and clinical procedures effectively.
Program Highlights:
- Certification Preparedness: Graduates are prepared to take the national board examination, allowing them to work as a Certified Medical Assistant in all 50 states.
- Outstanding Success Rates: Boasts a 100% job placement and certification exam passage rate for the year 2020, with a five-year average graduate and employer satisfaction rate of 100%.
- Comprehensive Training: Coursework covers vital signs and medical histories, basic laboratory procedures, scheduling appointments, managing medical records, and handling telephone calls.
2. Ohio Business College
Ohio Business College offers a Medical Assistant diploma program designed to prepare students for a versatile career in the healthcare field. This program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform a wide range of duties, from clinical tasks to administrative responsibilities, in various medical settings.
Program Highlights:
- Diverse Career Paths: Graduates can pursue careers in multiple specialties, including Cardiology, Chiropractic, EKG Technician, Family Medicine, Geriatrics, OB/GYN, Oncology, Orthopedic, Pediatrics, and Podiatry.
- Comprehensive Training: The curriculum covers essential clinical procedures such as administering EKGs, taking blood samples, and performing minor medical procedures, alongside administrative tasks like scheduling appointments and handling billing and coding.
- Specialized Knowledge: The program emphasizes the importance of specialized knowledge for working in specific medical settings, offering insights into the unique requirements of various healthcare specialties.
- Hands-on Experience: Students gain practical experience that prepares them for entry-level roles in a medical setting, ensuring they are ready to contribute effectively from the start of their careers.
3. University Of Northwestern Ohio
The University of Northwestern Ohio offers a robust Medical Assistant Technology program that prepares students to become skilled professionals in both administrative and clinical tasks within various healthcare settings. With a history of successfully educating medical assistants since 1976, UNOH stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and hands-on externship experience, ensuring graduates are job-ready.
Program Highlights:
- Certification Exam Fee Covered: UNOH covers the cost of the CMA (Certified Medical Assistant) exam fee, facilitating students' certification before graduation.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes essential subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Medical Terminology & Medical Coding, Electronic Health Records, Recordkeeping, Insurance Processing, Pharmacology, Medical Law and Ethics, and patient communication skills.
- Externship Experience: Students gain real-world experience through an externship phase, which is a critical component of the curriculum.
4. Cincinnati State Technical And Community College
The Medical Assistant Certificate program at Cincinnati State Technical And Community College prepares students for a multifaceted role in healthcare settings. This program equips students with the skills needed to perform administrative, clinical, and management functions in medical practice organizations. Graduates are trained to handle tasks ranging from scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records to assisting with examinations and managing the medical office.
Program Highlights:
- Clinical Practice: Includes 160 hours of unpaid practicum experience, offering hands-on training in real-world settings.
- Certification: Graduates are eligible to take the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) examination.
5. Southern State Community College
Southern State Community College offers a comprehensive Medical Assisting Program designed to be completed within five semesters on a full-time basis, with an option for part-time students to finish within eight semesters. This program is tailored to equip students with the necessary skills for administrative and clinical roles in various healthcare environments. Admission to the program is selective, requiring written acceptance by the Medical Assisting Program Director.
Program Highlights:
- Flexible Completion Time: Designed for completion in five semesters full-time or eight semesters part-time.
- Certification Ready: Graduates are eligible for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) through American Medical Technologists (AMT).
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, medical coding, electronic health records, insurance processing, pharmacology, medical law and ethics, and communication skills.
- Practicum Experience: A minimum cumulative and most current completed term grade point average of 2.4 is required to participate in the practicum experience, ensuring hands-on learning.
6. Sinclair Community College
Sinclair Community College offers a Medical Assistant Technical Certificate designed to be completed in three semesters on a full-time basis. This program prepares students to become multi-skilled professionals who assist physicians with both the administrative and clinical aspects of patient care. Graduates are well-equipped to handle a variety of roles in the healthcare field, supporting the delivery of safe, ethical, legal, and compassionate patient care.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: One-year Technical Certificate program consisting of 37 credit hours.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes both open enrollment courses (general education and division-specific) and program-specific courses with limited enrollment.
- Practicum Experience: Requires completion of 210 hours of unpaid supervised practicum during the third semester.
- Eligibility for Certification: Graduates are eligible to sit for a national exam to become a credentialed medical assistant.
7. Stark State College
Stark State College offers a streamlined Medical Assisting Certificate program that can be completed in just three semesters. This fast-track program prepares students for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam and the national exam to become a Certified EKG Technician. Designed with flexibility in mind, classes are scheduled on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday each semester, with options for day or night programs.
Program Highlights:
- Fast Track: Complete your certificate in three semesters, quickly entering the healthcare workforce.
- Certification Ready: Eligible to take the CMA(AAMA) exam and the national certification for EKG technicians upon completion.
- Flexible Scheduling: Classes held three days a week, with day and night options to accommodate diverse student needs.
- Clinical Assignments: Students gain hands-on experience through assignments at clinical sites.
- Comprehensive Training: Covers both administrative and clinical duties, including using electronic medical record programs, patient care, laboratory tasks, and assisting physicians during exams.
8. Ohio School of Phlebotomy
The Ohio School of Phlebotomy offers a comprehensive Clinical Medical Assisting program that is suitable for individuals at all experience levels. This program is designed to meet the high demand for Medical Assistants with phlebotomy skills, providing students with the essential fundamentals needed to start a career as a Medical Assistant. Over 11 weeks, students will engage in both hands-on training and theoretical learning to master direct patient care.
Program Highlights:
- Duration: The program lasts for 11 weeks, with classes meeting twice a week for lectures and hands-on labs.
- Skills Taught: Students will learn techniques for performing accurate vitals, medical histories, phlebotomy, CLIA-waived testing, wound dressing, injections, and standard front office procedures.
- Curriculum Includes: EKG Administration, Laboratory & CLIA-Waived Tests, Phlebotomy & Specimen Handling, Medications & Pharmacology, Patient & Exam Room Preparation, Charting & Medical Histories, HIPAA & Patient's Rights, Standard Precautions & Safety, Medical Terminology, Anatomy & Physiology, Injections & Wound Dressing, Professionalism & Office Tasks.
- Admissions Requirements: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and hold a High School Diploma, GED, or International High School Diploma Equivalency.
- Cost: CMA Total Cost is $2,300, with an optional CMX Total Cost of $300 for those eligible for an optional clinical externship placement.
- Certification: The NHA CCMA exam is required to complete the class and is administered on the final day of class.
9. Lorain County Community College
Lorain County Community College offers a Medical Assisting One-Year Certificate program designed to prepare students for the dynamic roles of medical assistants in healthcare settings. This program focuses on equipping students with the necessary clinical and clerical skills to ensure the efficient operation of the offices of physicians, podiatrists, chiropractors, and optometrists.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive Training: Students receive an introduction to the medical field, learning the basics of medical exam procedures, laboratory equipment usage, medical terminology, and business procedures common in healthcare facilities.
- Certification: Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the examination through the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), enhancing their employability and professional recognition.
- Focused Curriculum: The program is designed to be completed in one year, offering a fast track to entering the healthcare workforce with a solid foundation in medical assisting.
10. University Of Akron
The University of Akron offers a Bachelor of Science in Allied Healthcare Administration, designed for individuals interested in leadership roles within the healthcare sector. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of both the clinical and business sides of healthcare, preparing them for a variety of administrative positions in the healthcare industry.
Program Highlights:
- Flexibility: The program offers day and evening classes, as well as online options, to accommodate students' schedules and preferences.
- Hands-on Learning: Students benefit from hands-on learning facilities located near campus and mentoring by knowledgeable, fully licensed faculty.
- Customizable Pathways: The degree can be tailored to match specific career objectives, offering pathways in coding, management, information technology, and preparation for advanced degrees.
- Certification: Graduates will be eligible to take two national board certifications: the Certified Professional Coder (CPC®) exam by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) and the Certified Coding Specialist - Physician-based (CCS-P®) exam by the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA).
Medical Assistant Prerequisites & Requirements in Ohio
Medical Assistant programs in Ohio come with several prerequisites and requirements, ensuring students are prepared for the rigors and demands of their education and healthcare careers.
Prerequisites of Medical Assistant Programs in Ohio
Before enrolling in a Medical Assistant Program in Ohio, prospective students must meet certain prerequisites. These typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED: Applicants must have completed high school or have a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
- Age Requirement: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old by the time of enrollment or graduation.
- Health Immunizations: Up-to-date immunizations and possibly a health physical to ensure the safety of the student and patients they will interact with during clinical training.
- Background Check: A clean criminal background check may be required due to the nature of the work environment.
- Basic Computer Skills: As many healthcare facilities use electronic health records, basic computer literacy is often a prerequisite.
Requirements of Medical Assistant Programs in Ohio
Once enrolled, students must meet certain requirements to complete the program and qualify for certification. These requirements often include:
- Coursework Completion: Complete all required coursework, which covers both administrative and clinical skills.
- Clinical Hours: Fulfill a specified number of clinical hours or externship experience, providing hands-on experience in a healthcare setting.
- CPR Certification: Obtain CPR certification, which is often a part of the program or a separate requirement.
- Competency Exams: Pass all required exams that assess competency in various medical assistant skills.
- Certification Exam: Although not always mandatory, many programs prepare students to take a certification exam, such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam, which is highly recommended for employment prospects.
Medical Assistant Salary Expectations in Ohio
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 Ohio, which is $37,560.
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 Ohio?
Deciding whether a Medical Assistant program in Ohio is worth it requires considering its various advantages and disadvantages.
Pros of Medical Assistant Programs in Ohio
- Growing Job Market: The healthcare industry in Ohio, like much of the United States, is experiencing growth. Medical assistants are in high demand in various healthcare settings, including clinics, hospitals, and private practices, which can lead to job security and opportunities for advancement.
- Shorter Training Period: Compared to other healthcare professions, medical assistant programs can be completed relatively quickly, often within a year or two. This allows graduates to enter the workforce sooner and start gaining experience and earning a salary.
- Versatile Skill Set: Training as a medical assistant provides a broad range of skills, from clinical tasks like taking vital signs to administrative duties such as billing and coding. This versatility can make individuals valuable assets to their employers and may offer varied daily tasks.
- Stepping Stone in Healthcare: For many, becoming a medical assistant is a step toward further healthcare education and career advancement. The experience and knowledge gained can be a foundation for nursing, healthcare administration, or specialized medical fields.
- Opportunity to Make a Difference: Working as a medical assistant offers the chance to have a positive impact on patients' lives by providing care and support, making it a rewarding career choice for those passionate about helping others.
Cons of Medical Assistant Programs in Ohio
- Pay Scale Variability: While there is demand for medical assistants, the starting pay can be lower compared to other healthcare professions that require more extensive education. Pay can vary widely depending on the employer, location, and level of experience.
- Emotional and Physical Demands: The role can be both physically and emotionally demanding, with long hours spent on one's feet and the need to handle potentially stressful situations, including dealing with ill or distressed patients.
- Limited Scope of Practice: Medical assistants have a defined scope of practice, which can limit the procedures they are allowed to perform. Some may find this aspect of the role restrictive, especially if they aspire to have more clinical responsibilities.
- Need for Certification Renewal and Continuing Education: To remain competitive and compliant with employer requirements, medical assistants may need to periodically renew their certification and pursue continuing education, which can involve additional time and expense.
- Job Competition: While there is demand for medical assistants, certain areas may have a saturated job market, making it competitive for new graduates to find positions, especially in preferred healthcare settings or specific locations.
Ultimately, whether a medical assistant program in Ohio is worth it will depend on personal career goals, financial considerations, and the value placed on the pros and cons listed above.
Importance of Picking an Accredited Medical Assistant Program in Ohio
Choosing an accredited Medical Assistant program in Ohio 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)
Q: Can I work full-time while attending a Medical Assistant program in Ohio?
Many Medical Assistant programs in Ohio offer flexible scheduling, including part-time options, evening classes, and online coursework, to accommodate students who need to work full-time. However, the intensity of the program and the requirement for clinical practicum hours may vary, so it's essential to consider your time management and commitments.
Q: Are there financial aid options available for Medical Assistant programs in Ohio?
Financial aid options are often available for students enrolling in Medical Assistant programs in Ohio. These can include federal and state grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. Students are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and consult with their school's financial aid office to explore all available options.
Q: How do I choose between an outpatient or hospital setting for my clinical training?
The choice between an outpatient or hospital setting for clinical training depends on your career goals and interests. Outpatient settings, such as physicians' offices and clinics, may offer more regular hours and a focus on preventive care. Hospital settings can provide a broader range of experiences with more acute conditions and diverse patient populations. Consider where you see yourself working in the future and seek experiences that align with those goals.
Q: What is the difference between a credential from the National Healthcare Association (NHA) and other certifications?
The National Healthcare Association (NHA) offers the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) credential, focusing on clinical duties, patient care, and administrative tasks. Other certifications, like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA), may have different eligibility requirements and focus areas. Both credentials are nationally recognized, but some employers may prefer one over the other. Research and consider which certification aligns best with your career objectives.
Q: Is it necessary to complete a practicum to graduate from a Medical Assistant Program in Ohio?
Completing a practicum or externship is a standard requirement for graduation from a Medical Assistant Program in Ohio. This hands-on clinical training is crucial for applying classroom knowledge to real-world healthcare settings, developing practical skills, and gaining experience in patient care, medical records management, and scheduling appointments. The practicum also provides valuable networking opportunities and can enhance employment prospects post-graduation.
