Medical office assisting is a dynamic, rewarding career. Demand is skyrocketing, so there’s no better time to seek training.
If a secure future in a growing field sounds like the opportunity you’ve been waiting for, but you’re not sure what to do next, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
How to Become a Medical Office Assistant
Vocational school training is the fastest way to become a medical office assistant. It’s a short program that prepares students with no health care experience for entry-level positions.
You’ll graduate work-ready in months, not years, with the credentials employers are looking for. But first, you have to find the right vocational school in your area.
Finding Vocational Schools in Your Area
Education should be convenient. If you’re employed, you’ll need time to study and attend classes, so finding a campus nearby with an easy commute is ideal.
If you’re not sure where to start looking for schools, begin online. Most schools have a strong internet presence. Ask friends and local employers for recommendations.
Choose a School with a Medical Office Administration Program
Vocational schools offer a wide range of programs in growing fields, such as health care. Medical office assisting is among the most popular, so it’s likely to be an option at several schools, but don’t assume. Once you have found the right vocational school, it is time to do some research before enrolling.
Enroll in a Medical Office Assistant Program
Enrolling in a vocational school program couldn’t be easier. Before you enroll, take time to visit the college campus, verify accreditation, and review your financial aid options.
Visiting Campus
Once you’ve narrowed down your choice of schools, visit each campus. Bring a list of questions, and ask for a tour. You can tell a lot about an institution’s commitment to your education by speaking with staff and watching how students interact with peers and instructors.
Some vocational schools will allow you to sit in on classes or lab sessions. Take the time to learn everything you can about the campus so you make the right decision.
Verifying Accreditation
Accreditation is a voluntary program. Schools allow private agencies to evaluate their academic rigor, faculty qualifications, training facilities, graduation policies, and learning outcomes so students can be sure they meet minimum standards.
Accreditation may be national or regional and is beneficial for students in two ways. Accredited schools have a better reputation among employers, and they can offer many more financial aid options.
Reviewing Financial Aid Options
Paying for education is a challenge, but many vocational school programs qualify for federal, state, or private financial aid. Your financial aid counselor can assist you when filling out the federal financial aid application, or FAFSA. However, there are several types of aid at the federal, state, and private levels.
Grants Grants are free money for those that qualify. Unlike loans, you don’t pay them back. Awards are based on financial need, tuition rates, and whether you’re enrolled full- or part-time. They rarely cover the full cost of education, but every little bit helps.
Student Loans Student loans are a popular option when paying for tuition costs. Many are subsidized, so interest rates are low, and the first payment isn’t due until after graduation.
Graduate With a Diploma Once you’ve decided how to fund your education at an accredited school with a medical office assistant program, the next step is to fill out an application. Next thing you know, you’ll be graduating with a diploma and ready to find your dream job. It’s really that simple.
Find Your Dream Job
With your diploma in hand, you’re ready to launch your new career as a medical office assistant. Make the most of the services offered by the vocational school. Take the time to network and use social media to your advantage.
Job Boards
Employers with vacancies to fill rarely post openings on public job sites. Instead, they call vocational schools where they know they’ll find qualified applicants. Institutions partner with local employers to understand the skills they need and, in turn, employers use them as a resource. It’s a win-win for students and businesses in the community.
Résumé Writing and Interview Preparation
Getting your dream job requires making a good first impression. Many vocational schools will help you polish your résumé and cover letter, as well as prepare you for job interviews. If you’re successful, they’re successful.
Networking
Opportunities start the moment you begin your vocational school program, but it’s up to you to put yourself out there. You’ll work with seasoned instructors who’ve worked in the field. They have insight into where to find jobs and how to put your best foot forward.
You’ll also meet people employed as medical office assistants. Programs with externships help you make connections with potential employers, so make the most of it.
Social Media
When graduation is near, you’ll want to craft a social media presence so employers seeking qualified applicants can find you. It’s critical to market yourself effectively in the digital age.
Start by creating a profile on LinkedIn and other social media platforms or a business networking website. The more avenues you open, the easier it is for you and your dream job to meet.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to become a medical office assistant, it is time to learn more about your vocational school options. Hunter Business School is an accredited institution offering you a diploma in less than a year. Our program prepares you for entry-level medical office assistant positions at medical facilities in the Long Island area. With a positive attitude and a plan, anyone can become a medical office assistant. Success begins with a small step taken right now.
Ready for a rewarding career as a medical office assistant? The Medical Office Administration program prepares students with the skills and training necessary to provide excellent administrative support while working and playing a key role in running an efficient, productive office in a variety of medical and business environments.
Through a blend of classroom instruction and practical hands-on training, Medical Office Administration program students receive an in-depth education in computer data entry of patient information, patient files, filing systems and records, insurance claim filing, and billing and coding.
Contact us today to find out more about how to become a medical office assistant on Long Island.