Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in Minnesota

If you've ever seen a doctor, you've almost certainly been assisted by medical assistants. Medical assistants serve both patients and doctors by streamlining the medical process and keeping things running smoothly. Due to the aging population, and stressful working conditions of the 2020 pandemic, medical professionals, including medical assistants, are needed desperately in Minnesota. If you're interested in entering this rewarding profession, here is a guide that can help you find the right Minnesota-based online medical assisting program.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Minnesota

Online programs for medical assistants are easily accessed by a web search. If you're already in the medical field, you may have colleagues or supervisors that may be able to suggest programs for you. Minnesota State College Southeast has a well-known program for those looking to become certified medical assistants. This program is available in a completely online format.

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Minnesota

In Minnesota, medical assistants are not required to obtain licensure or certification from state organizations in order to work in the medical field. However, earning certification through a recognized organization can help you stand out when it comes to the application process and enhance your professional qualifications.

To become a certified medical assistant in Minnesota, you can follow these general steps:

Education and Training: Complete an accredited medical assistant program that meets the criteria set by organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills.

Certification Exam: After completing your education, you may choose to take a certification exam offered by organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA. These exams assess your understanding of various medical assistant competencies, including clinical and administrative tasks.

Application Submission: Once you pass the certification exam, you can submit your application for certification to the respective organization. Follow their specific guidelines and provide any required documentation, including proof of education, training, and exam results. Pay the necessary fees as specified by the organization.

Certification Issuance: Upon successful completion of the application process and meeting the certification requirements, the organization will issue your medical assistant certification. This certification demonstrates your competency and validates your qualifications as a medical assistant.

While there are no specific state organizations for medical assistant certification in Minnesota, obtaining certification from nationally recognized organizations such as the AAMA or the NHA can greatly enhance your professional qualifications and increase your job prospects. These certifications are widely recognized and respected in the healthcare industry, including in Minnesota.

To stay updated with any changes or requirements specific to Minnesota, you can visit the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice website or contact the Minnesota Medical Association. These state organizations can provide information and resources related to the practice of medical assistants in Minnesota and any regulatory updates that may affect your career.

Where Can I Find a Job as a Medical Assistant in Minnesota?

As a medical assistant, you will be working in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. These jobs are easily found on online job postings or by speaking directly with the medical facilities themselves. In Minnesota, for example, this could mean applying to Mayo Clinic-Rochester, the University of Minnesota Medical Center, and Abbott Northwestern Hospital.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Minnesota?

According to Salary.com, the salary range for medical assistants in Minnesota is $35,000 to $48,000. You could be making the low or high end of this range, but it will depend entirely on your level of education and the level of need for medical assistants in your area.

Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Minnesota.