Wow, its been about 3 yrs since I looked at this forum and its good to see Lorraine and Danni's names still here and this forum going strong.

Bear with me here.

I have changed my mind back and forth a million times about MA.

First, I am a military spouse, and will be for at least 6 more yrs, but probably closer to 16 yrs. (My husband has 14 yrs in right now). So, I move every 2-4 yrs, to places which vary greatly in industry and population size.

I have a BS degree in general studies with a Health Sciences emphasis. I also have a certificate in coding, but that was 5 yrs ago and I cannot really remember CPT and ICD-9. I had worked as an at-home transcriptionist for about 6 mos FT, and 4 mos PT as well, in 2006. (you may remember me now from that background). I have 4 kids ages (almost)2 through 10.

Anyway, I am at a crossroads again. I cannot do med transcription full-time. I got an overuse injury in my shoulder and I felt like I was melting into my chair. Anything else I am qualified for at this point in my life pays little. (I know what MAs make).

I have a short list of careers I am considering, based on my skills and interests, and the ability to find a job each time we move.

MA has made it back on the list, not because its my life's dream to work in a doctor's office, but because of the many different skills an MA is taught; I'd be flexible enough to look beyond clinics and private offices. I need to verify with you guys that I am on the right track with my thought process. It is my impression that as a MA, I could apply for not only MA jobs, but also things like phlebotomist or EKG tech. What else is there? I know a couple of local hospitals hire MA grads as Patient Care Techs and waive the experience requirement.

I'm just trying to figure things out. I can't spend money on a program and not be able to work. (I have a husband who thinks I should just get my real estate license - which is something I definitely do not want to do as a job).

Thanks for any feedback.

Are You Still In School? no

Are You Working? no

Hey, just wanted to add we *might* be moving to Las Vegas next year and curious if anyone attended College of Southern Nevada. They have a CAAHEP accredited program and the tuition seems pretty reasonable (plus I might get credit for my previous med terms and MS Office classes).

Are You Still In School? no

Are You Working? no