How to become a certified medical administrative assistant online
Opportunities for growth
Job stability - High demand
Flexible scheduling
This website is a one-stop-shop for anyone interested in becoming a certified medical administrative assistant online with EHR. It covers all the crucial information about online training, certification, required skills, salary, online schools, and benefits of this profession. Keep reading to start your journey towards a promising career in healthcare.
If you’re passionate about managing data related to the healthcare industry, then a career as a medical administrative assistant with Electronic health records EHR could be the perfect fit for you. Although a background in healthcare or medical administration is usually necessary, the following steps can guide you towards a successful career as a medical administrative assistant.
Medical Administrative Assistant with EHR Career
A medical administrative assistant with EHR (Electronic Health Record) is a healthcare professional responsible for managing the daily administrative tasks of a medical facility while utilizing electronic health record systems. The assistant works with healthcare providers to ensure the smooth running of the facility by scheduling appointments, managing patient information, and updating electronic health records.
They may also be responsible for billing and coding procedures, handling insurance claims, and maintaining patient confidentiality. The assistant should be proficient in using electronic health record software and have excellent communication skills to effectively communicate with patients, staff, and providers. They may work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
EHR stands for Electronic Health Record, which is a digital version of a patient’s medical history that is stored electronically in a secure system. It contains information such as patient demographics, medical history, medications, laboratory test results, and imaging reports. EHRs have replaced traditional paper-based medical records and provide several benefits to healthcare providers and patients. They enable easier sharing of medical information between healthcare providers, which can result in more coordinated and efficient care.
Some of the specific functions of medical administrative assistant with EHR may include:
Scheduling appointments
Coordinating patient care
Updating patient records via EHR
Communicating with patients
Managing insurance claims
Analyzing patient data
Job outlook and salary for medical administrative assistant
- Salary High $53,630
- Salary Median $37,450
- Salary Low $29,040
The salary for a medical administrative assistant with EHR (Electronic Health Records) experience can vary depending on several factors, such as the level of experience, education, location, and the size of the healthcare organization.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for medical secretaries (which includes medical administrative assistants) in the United States was $38,090 as of May 2020. However, those with EHR experience or certifications may earn more.
Glassdoor reports the average base pay for a medical administrative assistant with EHR experience in the United States is around $37,450 per year, with the lowest reported salary at around $29,040 and the highest reported salary at around $53,630.
Indeed reports that the average salary for a medical administrative assistant with EHR experience in the United States is approximately $16.90 per hour, with some positions paying more based on
experience and location.
It’s important to keep in mind that salaries can vary greatly depending on the specific job responsibilities, the healthcare organization, and the location.
Skills required for medical administrative assistant with EHR
A medical administrative assistant with EHR (Electronic Health Records) experience typically requires a range of skills to perform their duties effectively. Some of the key skills required for this role include:
Medical Terminology
As a Medical Administrative Assistant with EHR, you must have a strong understanding of medical terminology to understand and communicate effectively with healthcare professionals.
EHR Management
You need to have a good understanding of Electronic Health Records (EHR) and their management. This includes data entry, editing, retrieval, and transmission.
Time Management
You need to have excellent time management skills to ensure efficient and effective completion of daily tasks and deadlines, such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and handling patient inquiries.
Communication skills
As a medical administrative assistant, you must be an excellent communicator. You need to communicate effectively with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals.
Organizational skills
You need to have excellent organizational skills to manage patient information, schedules, and appointments. This includes creating and maintaining medical charts, filing documents, and following up on patient care.
Data Entry
You need to have good typing skills and accuracy to enter medical data quickly and correctly into the EHR system. This includes entering patient demographics, medical history, vital signs, lab results, and other health information.
These skills are essential to manage patient information, schedules, appointments, and other administrative tasks effectively while maintaining the highest levels of accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with regulations and standards. A Medical Administrative Assistant with EHR is a crucial member of the healthcare team who plays a critical role in delivering high-quality patient care.
Education and online training for medical administrative assistant with EHR
Online Training:
If you are interested in becoming a medical administrative assistant with expertise in EHR (Electronic Health Records), there are various online training options available that can help you achieve your career goals. Here are some potential steps you can take:
- Research and Identify Suitable Programs: First, research and identify suitable online training programs that can teach you the necessary skills for working as a medical administrative assistant with EHR. Look for programs that cover topics such as medical terminology, coding and billing, record-keeping, and EHR software.
- Choose an Accredited Program: Choose an accredited program that is recognized by industry organizations and employers. Accreditation ensures that the program meets certain quality standards and prepares you for the job market.
- Complete the Coursework: Complete the coursework required for the program, which may include lectures, readings, assignments, and hands-on practice with EHR software.
- Gain Practical Experience: Look for opportunities to gain practical experience in using EHR software, such as internships, externships, or volunteering at medical facilities.
Certification:
There are several reasons why obtaining certification as a medical administrative assistant with expertise in EHR (Electronic Health Records) can be beneficial to your career. Here are some potential reasons:
Demonstrate Expertise
Certification can demonstrate your expertise and knowledge in the field of medical administration and EHR. This can give employers confidence in your ability to perform the job duties required of a medical administrative assistant.
Increase Earning Potential
Certified medical administrative assistants with expertise in EHR may earn higher salaries than those who are not certified. This is because certification demonstrates a higher level of expertise and knowledge in the field.
Career Advancement
Certification can open up opportunities for career advancement, such as promotion to a supervisory or management position. It can also provide a pathway for further education and training in the healthcare industry.
Some recognized organizations that offer certification for medical administrative assistants with EHR expertise include the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA). It’s important to research and choose a certification program that is recognized and respected in the industry.
Top online schools for medical administrative assistant
Considering factors to help you find a program that meets your needs and helps you achieve your career goals.
Considering factors:
Accreditation or approved
Make sure that the school or program is accredited by a recognized agency or state boards of education. Accreditation ensures that the school meets certain quality standards and that your degree or certification will be recognized by employers and other institutions.
Curriculum
Look for a program that covers the skills and knowledge needed for success as an executive assistant, such as office technology, communication, project management, and leadership.
Resources and support
Check what resources and support the school or program offers to students, such as online tutoring, career counseling, and technical support.
Cost and financial aid
Consider the cost of the program and whether it fits within your budget. Look for schools that offer financial aid, scholarships, or other forms of assistance.
Reputation
Look for a program that has a strong reputation in the industry and a track record of producing successful graduates.
4 Medical administrative assistant online schools:
Medical administrative assistant online schools offer flexible and convenient options for individuals interested in pursuing a career in healthcare administration. These programs typically provide training in medical terminology, office management, medical coding and billing, and other essential skills needed to work in healthcare settings.
Medical administrative assistant with EHR pros and cons
Pros
Increased efficiency
EHR systems make it easier to access patient information, track progress, and improve communication between healthcare providers, which can lead to more efficient care delivery.
Job stability
Medical administrative assistants with expertise in Electronic Health Records (EHR) are in high demand due to the increasing adoption of electronic health records systems in healthcare facilities.
Career growth opportunities
As technology continues to evolve in healthcare, medical administrative assistants with EHR skills are likely to be in high demand, which can lead to opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries.
Flexibility
Medical administrative assistants with EHR skills can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and physician offices.
Fulfilling work
Medical administrative assistants with EHR expertise play an essential role in patient care by managing patient health records, coordinating patient care, and ensuring that medical facilities comply with government regulations.
Cons
High stress
Medical administrative assistants with EHR expertise may experience high levels of stress due to the fast-paced and often unpredictable nature of healthcare environments.
High-pressure environment
Accuracy and attention to detail are essential for medical trauma abstractors, as errors can have serious consequences. This can lead to a high-pressure work environment.
Emotional strain
Medical administrative assistants with EHR expertise may witness patients in pain or distress, which can be emotionally challenging.
Long hours
Medical administrative assistants with EHR expertise may be required to work long hours, especially during busy periods or emergencies.
Technological challenges
Medical administrative assistants with EHR expertise may face technological challenges, such as system malfunctions or slow processing times, which can impact their ability to manage patient health records effectively.
Ultimately
Those who are passionate about improving the quality of patient care, ensuring the accuracy and confidentiality of patient health records, and contributing to the overall functioning of healthcare facilities may find that a career as a medical administrative assistant with EHR expertise is a fulfilling and rewarding choice.