How to Become a Medical Assistant in Illinois

Medical assistants serve as vital members of health care teams across Illinois, bridging clinical and administrative responsibilities in physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient centers. Their diverse skill set allows them to perform everything from taking vital signs and assisting with procedures to managing electronic health records and coordinating patient schedules.

For those considering this rewarding career path in Illinois, understanding the educational requirements, certification options, and employment landscape is essential. This comprehensive guide outlines the specific steps needed to enter the field, along with detailed information about training programs, professional opportunities, and growth potential within the state.

Key Points  

• Medical assistants in Illinois engage in both clinical and administrative tasks, such as administering medications and managing patient records.  
• Training programs in Illinois include one-year certificates and two-year associate degrees, which prepare students for certification.  
• A state license is not required to work as a medical assistant in Illinois. However, certification is often preferred by employers.  
• Medical assistants in Illinois earn an average annual salary of forty-two thousand, seven hundred ninety dollars.  
• Employment for medical assistants is anticipated to grow 15% nationally between 2023 and 2033.  

What is a Medical Assistant?

Medical assistants perform essential duties in health care facilities, ensuring operations run smoothly while supporting patient care. Their responsibilities often blend clinical and administrative tasks.  

Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with electronic health records are critical. Medical assistants must also be comfortable performing hands-on tasks, such as administering injections or preparing laboratory specimens.  

The role offers opportunities to specialize in fields like pediatrics, geriatrics, or dermatology. Specialization can enhance career opportunities and provide exposure to specific areas of health care.  

Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in Illinois

1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED

A high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement for pursuing a career as a medical assistant. Students are encouraged to focus on biology, anatomy, and computer courses to build foundational knowledge.  

Completing high school or obtaining a GED is necessary before enrolling in accredited medical assistant programs in Illinois.  

2. Research and Compare Medical Assistant Programs in Illinois

Illinois offers multiple accredited medical assistant programs to help students gain the necessary skills and knowledge for certification and employment. Comparing program structures, length, and costs is essential for selecting an appropriate option.  

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Accreditation

Programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) qualify graduates to take national certification exams.  

Program Options in Illinois

• Carl Sandburg College: Offers a one-year certificate program with an externship in Galesburg-area clinics.  
• Midwest Technical Institute: Provides a nine-month program in Moline with tuition costs of $16,700, including fees.  
• Harper College: Offers a 36-credit certificate program in Palatine, featuring a 160-hour externship and preparation for the CMA exam.  

Program Delivery Formats

• In-person programs: Classroom and lab experiences help students build practical skills.  
• Hybrid programs: Combine online coursework with in-person labs, offering flexibility for working students.  
• Evening programs: Allow students to attend classes outside standard business hours.  

3. Complete a Medical Assistant Program

Enrolling in an accredited medical assistant program is a critical step toward employment. Programs typically cover clinical, administrative, and technical training.  

Coursework

Students learn medical terminology, anatomy, pharmacology, and clinical procedures like phlebotomy and infection control. Administrative training includes billing, coding, and electronic health record management.  

Programs often include hands-on training through externships. For example, Harper College requires students to complete a supervised 160-hour externship in a health care facility.  

4. Obtain Certification

Although Illinois does not mandate certification, earning a credential such as the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) significantly enhances employability. Certification demonstrates proficiency and commitment to the field.  

Available Certifications

• Certified Medical Assistant (CMA): Administered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).  
• Registered Medical Assistant (RMA): Offered by American Medical Technologists.  
• National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA): Provided by the National Center for Competency Testing.  

Exams cover topics like medical law, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. Certification fees vary, with CMA exam fees ranging from $125 to $250.  

5. Understand Legal Scope and Illinois-Specific Requirements

Medical assistants in Illinois work under the supervision of licensed health care providers. While Illinois does not require a state license, medical assistants must adhere to their defined scope of practice.  

Common tasks include:  

• Administering medications as directed by a physician.  
• Assisting with minor surgical procedures.  
• Recording medical histories and vital signs.  
• Preparing laboratory specimens for testing.  

6. Search for Job Opportunities in Illinois

Employment Outlook

Illinois employs approximately 21,040 medical assistants, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The state anticipates an 11.1% increase in employment opportunities through 2031.  

Major Employers in Illinois

• Advocate Aurora Health: Operates over 500 facilities, providing roles in primary and specialty clinics.  
• University of Chicago Medicine: Offers positions in advanced care settings.  
• Erie Family Health Centers: Focuses on community care, frequently hiring medical assistants for outpatient services.  

Earnings

The average hourly wage for Illinois medical assistants is $20.57. Salaries are influenced by location and employer. For example:  

• Chicago: Median annual salary of $39,500.  
• Peoria: Median annual salary of $37,000.  
• Springfield: Median annual salary of $36,000.  

7. Maintain Certification

Certified medical assistants must renew their credentials every five years. Renewal options include completing 60 continuing education units (CEUs) or retaking the certification exam.  

Continuing Education Resources

Illinois offers CEUs through online courses, workshops, and professional organizations. Employers may also support continuing education by offering in-house training programs.  

Licensure in Illinois

Medical assistants in Illinois are not required to obtain a state license. However, certification through organizations like the AAMA or AMT can improve job prospects. To explore certification requirements, visit HealthJob’s guide.  

How Much Do Medical Assistants Earn in Illinois?

Medical assistants in Illinois earn an average annual salary of $42,790 and an average hourly wage of $20.57. Salaries vary by location, specialization, and employer; see our Medical Assistant Salary guide for more information.  

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to be a medical assistant in Illinois?  

Medical assistants can complete training programs in Illinois within nine months to two years, depending on whether they pursue a certificate or associate degree.  

How do I get a medical assistant license in Illinois?  

Illinois does not require medical assistants to hold a state license. Certification from a national organization is recommended to improve job prospects.  

Can you become a CMA without going to school?  

Certification as a CMA generally requires completing an accredited medical assistant program. Most certification exams require proof of formal education.  

How much does it cost to become a medical assistant in Illinois?  

Program costs in Illinois range from several thousand dollars at community colleges to over $16,000 at private institutions. Financial aid and scholarships are available to eligible students.

Start Your Medical Assistant Career in Illinois

Medical assistants play a vital role in Illinois' evolving health care landscape, combining clinical expertise with administrative capabilities to support patient care. The position offers flexibility to work in various settings, from bustling urban hospitals to community clinics, while maintaining a stable work-life balance. Many medical assistants find satisfaction in building lasting relationships with patients and health care teams while continuously expanding their skills.

Ready to take the next step? Explore accredited medical assistant programs in Illinois to find the right training program for your career goals. These programs offer the education and hands-on experience needed to succeed in this rewarding field, with options available across the state to fit your schedule and learning preferences.