Medical Assistant Programs & Certification in North Dakota
North Dakota, like much of the country, has a desperate need for medical assistants. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be a 19% increase in medical assisting positions in the next decade, which means there's no better time than the present to start a new career in this rewarding profession. Medical assistants provide the important job of streamlining the medical process for both doctors and their patients. They can fulfill tasks such as filing paperwork, organizing lab specimens, and preparing patients for their appointments. If you'd like to learn how you can become certified and enroll in training programs online in North Dakota, this guide can help you through the process.
Finding an Online Medical Assistant Program in North Dakota
There are many medical assistant programs available in North Dakota, but there is only one available online. It is the Clinical Medical Assistant Training program offered by the University of North Dakota. However, campus-based opportunities are also readily available. No matter what medical assistant program type you choose, ensuring that it is properly accredited, has a good reputation, and offers the type of schedule you need (part-time, full-time, flexible, etc.) is a wise choice.
Getting a Medical Assistant Certification in North Dakota
In North Dakota, 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 North Dakota, 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 North Dakota, 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 North Dakota.
To stay updated with any changes or requirements specific to North Dakota, you can visit the North Dakota State Board of Medical Examiners website or contact the North Dakota Medical Association. These state organizations can provide information and resources related to the practice of medical assistants in North Dakota and any regulatory updates that may affect your career.
Where Can I Find a Job as a Medical Assistant in North Dakota?
You can expect to find medical assistant positions available in:
- Hospitals
- Medical centers
- Nursing homes
- Other medical facilities
To apply for these jobs, take a look at online job boards, or contact these medical facilities directly. Some of the highest employers of medical assistants in North Dakota include North Dakota State Hospital, Sanford Medical Center Fargo, and Unity Medical Center.
What Is the Salary for a Medical Assistant in North Dakota?
According to Salary.com, the annual salary range for medical assistants in North Dakota is $31,000 to $42,000. How much you will actually make will depend on where in the state you work, how much training you have undergone, and any special certifications or licensing you may hold.
Get More information on medical assistant salaries in North Dakota.
The following cities in North Dakota offer medical assistant schools and courses.
- Fargo, ND 2 schools