Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in Washington

Many people wanting to get into the medical profession in Washington start with medical assisting. Medical assistants help healthcare practitioners with day-to-day tasks such as prepping a patient for medical procedures or scheduling appointments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 19% increase in medical assisting positions within the next decade. This means that there will be plenty of opportunities to fill the empty positions that need to be filled for the next ten years. If you'd like to enter the workforce as a medical assistant, a great place to start is by enrolling in an online medical assistant training program. You'll be given the tools you need to start strong, and you'll be able to learn the job from the comfort of your own home.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Washington

There's only one online medical assistant program based in Washington, and it's offered by Health Professionals Institute. Other options include campus-based programs or enrolling in an online medical assistant program based out of another state. No matter what program you choose, make sure it’s properly accredited, offers the program type you want (certificate/diploma or associate’s degree) and has a high satisfaction and graduation rate.

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Washington

In Washington, 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 Washington, 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 Washington, 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 Washington.

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

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

Medical assistant jobs are abundant in the State of Washington. You can find them easily on job boards like Craigslist or Indeed, or even by calling medical centers, nursing homes, and hospitals directly and asking them about any positions they may have open. Some examples of these in Washington are Harborview Medical Center, the University of Washington Medical Center, and St. Joeseph Medical Center.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Washington?

According to Glassdoor, the salary range for medical assistants in Washinton is $29,000 to $49,000 annually. Your actual salary will vary depending on if you become certified, have any prior experience, or if you're working in an area that has a higher need for medical assistants.

Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Washington.