How to Become a Medical Assistant in New Jersey
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Medical assistants serve as vital members of health care teams across New Jersey, bridging the gap between clinical and administrative responsibilities in diverse medical settings. From assisting physicians during examinations to managing patient records, these professionals help ensure smooth operations in physician offices, hospitals, and outpatient facilities.
For those interested in joining this dynamic field in New Jersey, understanding the educational requirements, certification options, and career opportunities is essential. The role combines hands-on patient care with organizational skills, offering a pathway into the medical field that can be completed in as little as nine months through accredited programs across the state.
Key Points
- Medical assistants in New Jersey perform both clinical and administrative tasks in health care settings.
- Certification is not required by the state but can improve job prospects and earning potential.
- Accredited programs in New Jersey provide training and preparation for certification exams.
- Over 19,880 medical assistants work in New Jersey, with strong job growth projected in the coming decade.
- Employers include hospitals, physician offices, outpatient centers, and medical networks.
What is a Medical Assistant?
Medical assistants carry out essential clinical and administrative duties; learn more about what a medical assistant does to keep health care facilities functioning efficiently. Administrative tasks include managing patient records, scheduling appointments, and coordinating billing processes. Clinical responsibilities often involve taking vital signs, assisting with examinations, and administering medications or injections under supervision.
In New Jersey, medical assistants may perform specific tasks, such as collecting patient medical histories and preparing laboratory specimens, depending on training and certification. Employers prioritize skills in medical record software, patient care, and communication.
Required Skills and Responsibilities
- Measuring vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure.
- Preparing patients for examinations or minor surgical procedures.
- Scheduling appointments and managing billing records.
- Assisting physicians during patient examinations.
- Administering medications under physician instructions when permitted.
Medical assistants are integral to health care teams and often act as a bridge between patients and providers.
Steps to Become a Medical Assistant in New Jersey
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
A high school diploma or GED is required to enroll in medical assistant training programs. Courses in biology, anatomy, or health sciences during high school can provide a strong foundation for future studies.
2. Compare Medical Assistant Programs in New Jersey
New Jersey offers a variety of medical assistant training programs. These programs include certificate and associate degree options that cater to different timelines and career goals.
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Accreditation Requirements
When selecting a program, check for accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Accredited programs meet national standards and allow eligibility for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam.
Program Options in New Jersey
- Hudson County Community College (Jersey City): Provides a hybrid Associate in Applied Science program for those seeking a degree.
- Fortis Institute (Wayne): Offers a certificate program focusing on clinical and administrative skills, completed in nine to twelve months.
- Warren County Community College (Phillipsburg): Features an affordable certificate program with hands-on externship opportunities.
Factors to Evaluate
- Program Length: Certificate programs typically take nine to twelve months, while associate degrees require two years.
- Cost: Tuition costs range from $5,949 at Warren County Community College to $17,597 at Fortis Institute.
- Learning Format: Options include in-person classes, hybrid learning, and online coursework combined with clinical training.
- Externship Opportunities: Hands-on training in medical offices or hospitals is often included to build experience and confidence.
3. Complete a Medical Assistant Program
After selecting a program, complete all required coursework and training. Medical assistant programs in New Jersey focus on both administrative and clinical skills to prepare students for employment.
Training Focus Areas
- Medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.
- Administrative procedures like billing and coding.
- Clinical skills including phlebotomy, EKGs, and patient care.
- Legal and ethical guidelines for health care settings.
Programs often include externships where students gain real-world experience under the supervision of experienced professionals. This training is critical for developing practical skills and meeting employer expectations.
4. Obtain Certification
Although New Jersey does not require certification, earning a credential like the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) from the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) can improve job opportunities and salary potential.
Steps to Certification
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure your program is accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES.
- Submit an Application: Apply through the AAMA website. Paper applications are also accepted.
- Pay the Examination Fee: The CMA exam costs $125 for AAMA members and $250 for non-members.
Other certifications include the Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) and Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA).
5. Gain Employment in New Jersey
Once certified, you can begin your job search. In New Jersey, medical assistants work in physician offices, hospitals, outpatient centers, and health care systems.
Major Employers in New Jersey
- Hackensack Meridian Health: Employs medical assistants across its hospitals and outpatient clinics.
- RWJBarnabas Health: Offers positions in specialties like cardiology and pediatrics.
- Atlantic Health System: Known for hiring medical assistants in areas like oncology and neurology.
- Virtua Health: Focuses on community-based health care services.
Medical assistants in New Jersey earn an average annual salary of $45,190, with wages influenced by location, certification, and experience.
6. Maintain Certification
Certification requires renewal every five years. The renewal process can be completed by earning 60 continuing education units (CEUs) or retaking the certification exam.
CEU Requirements
- 30 CEUs must be approved by the AAMA.
- CEUs should cover general, administrative, and clinical topics.
Continuing education is offered through programs like the New Jersey Society of Medical Assistants (NJSMA) workshops, online courses, and local colleges.
Licensure in New Jersey
New Jersey does not require a formal license for medical assistants. However, certification allows medical assistants to perform specific tasks, including drawing blood and administering injections, under physician supervision. Additional details can be found here.
How much do Medical Assistants make in New Jersey?
Medical assistants in New Jersey earn a mean hourly wage of $21.72, translating to an annual mean salary of $45,190 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salaries may vary based on workplace settings, certifications, and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a medical assistant in New Jersey?
Medical assistant programs in New Jersey can typically be completed within nine to twelve months for certificates or up to two years for associate degrees.
Can you become a CMA without going to school?
No, becoming a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) requires completing an accredited medical assistant program before taking the certification exam.
Is a medical assistant harder than a CNA?
Medical assistants and certified nursing assistants (CNAs) have different roles. Medical assistants focus on both clinical and administrative work, while CNAs focus entirely on patient care. The required skill sets differ, but both professions involve challenging yet rewarding work.
What certifications are available for medical assistants?
Popular certifications include the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through AAMA, Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) through AMT, and Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) through NHA.
What kind of externship opportunities are included in medical assistant programs?
Externships typically involve hands-on training in medical offices, hospitals, or outpatient facilities. Students gain experience in patient care, administrative tasks, and clinical skills under the supervision of health care professionals.
Start Your Medical Assistant Career in New Jersey
Medical assistants play a vital role in New Jersey's evolving health care landscape, working alongside physicians and nurses to deliver comprehensive patient care. The position offers flexibility to work in various settings, from busy urban hospitals to smaller private practices, allowing you to find an environment that matches your professional goals and work-life preferences.
Ready to take the first step? Explore accredited medical assistant programs in New Jersey to find the right training opportunity for your schedule and career aspirations. Each program offers unique benefits and learning formats, helping you build the foundation for a rewarding career in health care.
