How much do medical assistants earn per hour?
Salary of medical assistant
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2008, the median annual income for salaried medical assistants was $79,980, with an hourly rate of approximately $42. This figure can vary depending on geographic location and years of experience. The median income for first-year graduates was $70,784.
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As in most industries, salary increases and hourly wages for medical assistants are primarily based on years of experience. On average, a medical assistant with five to nine years of experience typically earns approximately $10,000 more per year in salary than a recent graduate. According to recent salary data, California ranks as the top state in terms of medical assistant salaries, with Texas in second place.
Improving your salary
Continuing education is crucial for medical assistants and can lead to higher salaries. Medical assistants have the option to attend medical school and pursue training in areas such as surgery and internal medicine. Completing certification programs can also enhance a medical assistant's earning potential.
Becoming a medical assistant
Individuals interested in becoming medical assistants often have a passion for science and a natural inclination to help others. Medical assistant programs typically last two years and can be found in health sciences schools, academic medical centers, medical schools, or traditional four-year colleges. In 2007, there were over 136 accredited healthcare programs in the United States.
Students preparing to become medical assistants are required to take courses at the collegiate level in subjects such as biology, chemistry, English, mathematics, psychology, and social sciences. Once enrolled in medical assistant educational institutions, students typically take courses in anatomy, microbiology, clinical medicine, and biochemistry.
Type of required certification
Most medical assistant programs have a minimum duration of two years. Admission requirements may vary between programs, but many require a high school diploma or equivalent and some healthcare-related experience. After completing their studies, medical assistants in every state are typically required to pass a national exam to obtain a professional medical license.
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Job outlook for medical assistants
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for medical assistants are expected to grow by 27 percent from 2006 to 2016. This increase can be attributed to healthcare facilities seeking cost-effective resources and the aging population requiring more medical services. As medical assistants earn less than physicians, medical establishments consider them valuable assets.