Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in Colorado

If you've ever wondered what it's like to be in the medical field, but are not sure where to start, a medical assistant position is a great way to get your foot in the door. Medical assistants fill the important duty of scheduling appointments, preparing a patient for medical procedures, and filing and mailing paperwork. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 19% increase in medical assisting positions in the next decade, leaving plenty of room for you to advance in this rewarding position. It typically doesn't require any certification or extra education to become a medical assistant, but it can be beneficial to enroll in a medical assistant program to give yourself better placement amongst applicants and to better prepare yourself for the workplace. For this reason, we've created this simple guide to help you navigate Colorado-based online medical assisting programs.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Colorado

Online programs can be super convenient for those already in the medical field or those who have busy home lives. They allow students to become certified and trained on their own time. One of the best ways to locate Colorado-based online medical assisting programs is to do an online search or to talk with someone already in the medical assisting profession. They can point you in the right direction or even suggest a specific program such as the one offered at the Community College of Denver.

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Colorado

In Colorado, medical assistants are not required to obtain licensure or certification to practice in the medical field. However, pursuing certification through recognized organizations can greatly enhance your professional credentials and improve your chances during the application process.

To pursue medical assistant certification in Colorado, you can follow these general steps:

Education and Training: Enroll in an accredited medical assistant program that meets the criteria set by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) or other recognized accrediting bodies. These programs typically provide comprehensive training that combines classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

Certification Exam: Upon completing your education and training, you have the option to take a certification exam offered by nationally recognized organizations such as the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These exams assess your competency in various medical assistant competencies, including both administrative and clinical tasks.

Application Submission: If you decide to pursue certification, submit your application to the respective organization, following their specific guidelines and requirements. Include all necessary documentation, such as proof of education, training, and exam results. Pay any applicable fees as outlined by the organization.

Background Check: Depending on the certification organization and state regulations, you may be required to undergo a background check as part of the certification process. This step ensures the safety and integrity of healthcare professionals.

Certification Issuance: Upon successful completion of the application process, meeting the education, training, and exam requirements, the certification organization will issue your medical assistant certification. This certification serves as recognition of your competence and validates your qualifications as a medical assistant in Colorado.

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

Medical assistants ready to apply for their first jobs can do so through online job boards such as Indeed or Craigslist, or they can apply directly to medical centers, hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities in the area where they want to work. The highest employers of medical assistants in Colorado include UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital, Denver Health Medical Center, and the Children's Hospital of Colorado.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Colorado?

According to Salary.com, the salary range for medical assistants in Colorado is $33,000 to $45,000, however, your actual salary will depend on many factors such as specific location, experience, and any licensing you may hold.

Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Colorado.