What is the scope of practice for a medical assistant?

Answer 1

Clerical Medical AssistantsThere isn't much that separates a clerical medical assistant from an administrative assistant. They perform basic office duties such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, sorting mail and greeting patients. Although the job duties of clerical medical assistants are not specific to the medical field, they are vital to the function of every medical office. Administrative Medical AssistantAdministrative medical assistants usually perform all of the clerical duties as well as administrative duties specific to the medical field. Besides answering phones and scheduling appointments, they maintain medical records, submit insurance claim forms, handle billing and book keeping. They are usually the ones who schedule medical tests, lab-work, and out-patient procedures for patients. Again, the smaller the practice, the more work will be required of them. Clinical Medical AssistantClinical medical assistants assume much of the workload that was once assigned to nurses and physician assistants. Having been trained in basic medical procedures, such as taking blood pressure, they are well-equipped to work directly with patients.

Their tasks may include recording vitals, preparing the exam room, explaining medical procedures to patients and assisting the physican with medical procedures.

They will often collect and prepare specimens, such as stool and urine samples, and may even remove stiches and sutures. More qualified clinical medical assistants can draw blood, take x-rays and perform EGKs.

Specialized Medical AssistantsThe beauty of working as a medical assistant is that you have so many options available to you. In fact, medical assistants are one of the most versatile health care professions! Much like doctors, MAs can choose to specialize in a certain field of medicine.

For example, a podiatric medical assistant works in a podiatrist's office. They make foot castings and assist the physican during examinations and surgeries. Optometric assistants help optomotrists with eye tests and examinations and show patients how to use contact lenses. Medical lab assistants help pathologists and lab technicians in preparing and testing specimens.