Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in Maine

Medical assistants are an essential part of the medical process. They provide help to doctors and patients by assisting with administrative duties, as well as lab and patient care. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of medical assistants is projected to grow 19% from 2019 to 2029 due to the need for medical assistants across the US–not just in Maine. You can obtain a medical assisting education in the form of an online program in Maine. To find out more, continue reading below.

Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in Maine

There are various levels of degrees and certificates available online, the most common being associate degrees and certified medical assistant certificates. Before entering into a medical assistance program, make sure that it is accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). There are currently no online medical assistant programs available, but a few in-person programs include the Medical Assistant Certificate Program at Eastern Maine Community College and the Associate’s Degree in Medical Assisting at Eastern Maine Community College.

Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in Maine

In Maine, 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 Maine, 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 Maine, 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 Maine.

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

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

As a medical assistant, you will find work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and other healthcare centers. The locations looking most diligently for medical assistants in Maine include Maine Medical Center and Northern Light Health.

What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in Maine?

According to the BLS, the median annual wage for medical assistants in Maine is $34,350, but this is entirely dependent on your level of education, location, any certificates or licensure you may have, and how needed medical assistants are in the area of Maine in which you are applying.

Get More information on medical assistant salaries in Maine.