Medical Assistant FAQ

Medical assistants play an essential role in supporting medical procedures performed every day across various healthcare facilities. The School of Medical Assisting at Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) provides students with the necessary skills to assist physicians, hospitals, and more with clinical and clerical support. Learn how to start your career in healthcare as a medical assistant.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistants provide aid to medical professionals through a range of duties. Some tasks may include recording patient history, measuring vitals, helping with patient examinations, and giving injections or medication as directed by a physician in accordance with state law. 

There are also specializations in medical assisting. Ophthalmic and optometric assistants provide eye support and care while podiatric medical assistants work to provide foot care by making castings or even conducting x-rays. 

For more information, check out What Does a Medical Assistant Do?

Some form of postsecondary or on-the-job training is required to pursue a career in medical assisting. MTI’s Medical Assisting Program  prepares students to pursue entry-level positions working in the medical field through hands-on training. 

Medical assistants differ from nurses based on a wide range of factors, including job responsibilities, scope of practice, education and training, and more. Compared to nurses, medical assistants perform more administrative responsibilities. Medical assisting programs are also generally shorter than most nursing programs.

For related information, check out CNA vs. Medical Assistant — Key Differences

MTI’s Medical Assisting Program is different because it provides accelerated training (less than a year) and features hands-on training to simulate real medical working environments. MTIoffers employment preparation to all students, such as resume workshops and interview prep. MTI also offers career placement assistance to qualifying graduates.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median pay for medical assistants as $38,270 as of  May 2022. The top 10% of medical assistants earn over $51,710.

Medical assisting is one of the most in-demand careers in the country. According to the BLS, employment demand for medical assistants is expected to grow 14% through 2032, with 114,600 openings for medical assistants projected each year.