Choosing the right medical assisting program is a critical step towards a fulfilling healthcare career. Medical assistants are essential members of healthcare teams, performing administrative and clinical tasks under the direction of physicians. Before committing to a program, it's vital to ask the right questions to ensure the school meets your needs and sets you up for success in this growing field.

This article provides a structured guide to the important inquiries you should make when researching and evaluating medical assisting schools and training programs. Asking these questions will help you make an informed decision, leading to a rewarding educational experience and a strong foundation for your future career.

Accreditation and Program Approval

Accreditation is a crucial factor in selecting a medical assisting program. It ensures that the program meets specific quality standards and is recognized by employers and certification bodies. A key benefit of attending an accredited program is eligibility to sit for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).

Definition: Accreditation is the process by which an external organization evaluates and recognizes educational institutions or programs that meet pre-determined standards of quality and integrity.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "Is your program accredited? If so, by which accrediting agency? Is it CAAHEP (Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs) or ABHES (Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools)?"
• "What are the benefits of attending an accredited program?"
• "If the program is not accredited, what are the potential drawbacks?"
• "Does the accreditation cover the entire medical assisting program, or specific components?"
• "Has the program ever had its accreditation revoked or placed on probation? If so, why?"

Curriculum and Clinical Experience

The curriculum should cover a wide range of medical assisting skills, including both administrative and clinical tasks. Clinical experience is equally important, providing hands-on training and the opportunity to apply what you've learned in a real-world healthcare setting.

Definition: Clinical Experience refers to the practical, hands-on training component of a medical assisting program where students apply their knowledge and skills in a healthcare setting under supervision.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "What topics are covered in the curriculum? Can I see a syllabus?" (Look for coverage of medical terminology, anatomy & physiology, pharmacology, medical law & ethics, electronic health records, phlebotomy, EKG, and assisting with minor procedures.)
• "How much of the program is classroom-based, and how much is clinical experience?"
• "Where are the clinical sites located? Do students have input into their clinical placement?"
• "What is the length of the clinical experience? What types of tasks will I be performing?"
• "Does the program offer opportunities for specialized training, such as in a specific medical specialty?"
• "Are there opportunities for simulated clinical experiences within the classroom setting, such as mock exams or role-playing activities?"

Instructors and Faculty

The quality of the instructors is a significant factor in the success of any medical assisting program. Experienced and knowledgeable instructors can provide valuable insights and guidance to students.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "What are the qualifications and experience of the instructors?"
• "Are the instructors certified medical assistants (CMAs) or possess other relevant certifications?"
• "What is the student-to-instructor ratio?"
• "Are instructors accessible outside of class for questions and support?"
• "Are guest speakers from the healthcare field incorporated into the program?"
• "Does the school have a process for students to provide feedback on instructor performance?"

Certification and Job Placement

A primary goal of completing a medical assisting program is to become certified and obtain employment in the field. It's important to inquire about the program's certification pass rates and job placement assistance.

Definition: Certification is the process by which a professional organization grants recognition to an individual who has met specific qualifications, such as passing an exam, demonstrating competency in a particular field.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "Is the program designed to prepare students for a specific certification exam, such as the CMA (AAMA) or RMA (Registered Medical Assistant) exam?"
• "What is the program's certification exam pass rate? Can you provide data from recent years?"
• "Does the school offer career services, such as resume writing assistance, mock interviews, and job placement assistance?"
• "What is the job placement rate for graduates of the program? What types of healthcare facilities do graduates typically work in?"
• "Does the school have relationships with local healthcare providers that offer job opportunities?"

Costs and Financial Aid

The cost of a medical assisting program can vary significantly. It's essential to understand all the associated costs and explore available financial aid options.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "What is the total cost of the program, including tuition, fees, books, and supplies?"
• "Are there any additional costs, such as for uniforms, background checks, or certification exams?"
• "What financial aid options are available, such as grants, loans, and scholarships?"
• "Does the school participate in federal financial aid programs?"
• "What is the payment schedule? Are there payment plans available?"
• "What is the school's refund policy if I withdraw from the program?"

Program Format and Schedule

Consider the program's format and schedule to ensure it aligns with your learning style and personal commitments.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "Is the program offered online, in-person, or in a hybrid format?"
• "What is the length of the program? Are there full-time and part-time options?"
• "What are the class schedules? Are there evening or weekend classes available?"
• "What is the attendance policy?"
• "What technology requirements are there for the program?" (Especially important for online programs)
• "Does the program offer any flexible learning options or self-paced modules?"

Facilities and Resources

The quality of the school's facilities and resources can impact your learning experience.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "What are the school's facilities like? Are there well-equipped classrooms and labs?"
• "Does the school have a library or learning resource center?"
• "What type of equipment is available for students to use, such as EKG machines, phlebotomy supplies, and electronic health record systems?"
• "Is there a student support center offering tutoring, counseling, or other services?"
• "Is there adequate parking available or access to public transportation?"

Program Reputation and Student Success

Research the school's reputation and track record of student success.

Questions to Ask Medical Assisting Schools Before Enrolling Schools:

• "What is the school's reputation in the local healthcare community?"
• "Are there testimonials from graduates of the program?"
• "Does the school have any partnerships with local healthcare organizations?"
• "What support services are available to help students succeed academically?"
• "What is the student retention rate?"
• "How does the school track graduate outcomes (e.g., employment rates, salaries)?"

By asking these questions, you can gather valuable information to help you choose the right medical assisting program and start your journey towards a rewarding career in healthcare.