Hello Medical Assistants!
I really need your help...sorry for the length of this, I guess I have a lot on my mind.....Here is my problem:
After researching the field of Medical Assisting I was convinced that this would be an excellent career path for someone who is starting over in life at the half century mark after the title of wife and mommy has long since passed. I think about the fact that even though following a dream is scary it's now or never, and without risk there is no growth. So I bravely went to see a technical school advisor who was empathetic to my situation as I do not have any college credits and applying to a traditional college campus would be very time consuming just to get to the place where I can finally study the subjects relevant to my field of interest which has always been medicine. I've dreamed of a nursing career for the last 10 years and as I did a thorough investigation of what I would need to do to make that dream come true I was discouraged at every turn. Living in Connecticut there is a shortage of nursing teachers therefore compounding the rising statistics of a nursing shortage. To pursue an LPN path requires a waiting period of 18 months after having taken a Nurse Entrance Exam which focuses on math and critical thinking skills. Approx 400 people take this exam and on average half pass of the half that passes there are only 30 seats available and then there is a waiting period of 6 mos to find out if you've been accepted. Meanwhile your whole life is on hold for that time. I took the test and passed due to taking an LPN Prep course as well as hiring a math tutor and studying algebra which was not a required course when I was in high school during the middle 70's. The program was full time days as evenings are not offered at all, and this unfortunatley creates another obstacle as most people today work full time and do not have the luxury of being supported as they attend school. I went forward as my husband and I were together at the time the decision was made to go to school and by the time I received the invitation to interview for a seat I was divorced and very much alone. I declined the invitation while crying real tears. Now I've come full circle once again still searching for an answer. The desire to enter the medical field is so strong and I thought Medical Assisting would be a "bridge" to where I really want to be...a nurse. My goal was to find a job in a hospital and enjoy the benefit of tuition reimbursement. Since applying to the school and being accepted, the general feedback among co-workers friends and family is just horrible! I am being criticized for trying to improve my life in the only realistic way I know how to at this point. I do not have the admission requirements to enter a college, and if I took the courses that I need it would take a few years just to do that, the technical school is a career focused education, they teach you the hands on skills as well as clerical skills to do the job. But what I'm hearing is that a medical assistant has the same job responsibilities as a CNA with the same pay, and that finding a job as a medical assistant is very difficult especially in a hospital. Someone actually said to me I think you're making a mistake you're smarter than that....I am concerned with spending $13,700.00 on an education that will in the end earn me less than $30,000.00 a year, with no real job security. Can someone please share with me any advice you may have before it's too late? I start school on November 14,05 and I need to know the truth. Am I making a mistake? I would be so very grateful for any thoughts and direction you may have on helping me to make a decision that makes sense. I thank you in advance.
Kimberlee

Are You Still In School? Clinical Aesthetician/Skin Care Specialist

Well it depends on what you really want. It is true that CMA's don't get many positions in the hospital setting, we aren't trained for that( never taught to make beds, empty catheter bags, do bed baths etc..). If anything it is EKG tech, phlebotomy, along those lines. If you want to work in a hospital, you may want to go the CNA route( or LPN if you have the patience). It is cheaper, and less time consuming. If you want to work in a clinic, then CMA is the way to go. You will learn the ins and outs of a clinic, from the lab, to assisting the physician to running the front office. It really all depends on what you want to do and where you want to work. Best of luck in your decision :)

Don't forget there are alot of avenues to go in terms of health care. X- ray tech, surgical tech, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, lab technician. Explore all of your options!

Are You Still In School? CMA, CNA, RMA

I don't want to discourage you, but CMAs, in my thinking , don't get paid enough for what we have to do. I took the medical assistant course, which was nine months plus one month of internship. I took the summer off, then applied to LOTS of places. Finally someone called, I did finally get a job in Occupational health, my main job was doing drug screens, audiograms, injections, blood draws, etc. I didn't really get to work with the doctor as he wanted to work with an LPN, so I don't really have much experience working with doctors. I didn't mind the job only I had to be on-call, which I really couldn't get use to getting woken up in the wee hours of the morning, sometimes 4 times a night. So I decided to quit. It has been 7 months now without a medical assistant job. And believe me I have been looking. There aren't to many jobs here, or if they do have some, they all want someone with 1-2 years experience. So how am I suppose to get experience if no one else will hire me. As for pay, every place is different, here it is anywhere from $9 to $10.50 an hour. or if you have experience and work in a speciality area you could go as high as $12. I do know LPNs make more money than CMAs. Believe it or not, I made more money cleaning then I did being a medical assistant. CMAs job duties vary, depending on where you work. CNAs I don't believe can draw blood, unless they take an extra class, they don't do EKGs, I don't know if they can do injections, in other words, their work is different than ours. I hope some of this information helps, if you have time, maybe do some more research where you live, find out the pay rate. Let us know what you decided to do. Good luck. Sue

Are You Still In School? CMA

Hi Tracy,

Thank you so much for your quick response. I am curious about you. How long have you been a CMA and what state do you live in? Where did you receive your education and what was that experience like? I now know that the rules & regs vary greatly from state to state. I was told by the school I'm planning to attend that after graduation I would be Nationally Certified, but now I'm feeling like I'm not asking the right questions and therefore I'm being given only a part of an answer, after all the school is in the business of "selling" education. Because I do not have any college behind me I am at a great disadvantage in my effort to become a nurse, I took the CNA course 3 years ago and passed the state exam with a 91, but due to the low pay I did not pursue work and my license expired, I also took a phlebotomy course- just 30 ceu's, I did well but finding a job in a lab was impossible because I only had 5 "sticks" under my belt, the response was to call them back when I had 100. I just feel like I'm going around and around and really not getting anywhere. I thought becoming a Medical Assistant would be getting my foot in the door and while working in the medical field I could start taking the pre-reqs to be eligible for college admitance and then go on to a nursing program with the hope of finding a job that would offer tuition reimbursement. I keep thinking that time is running out as I just turned 47! I have been an Aesthetician (Skin Care Specialist) for 16 years and I'm currently working in a MediSpa for a plastic surgeon, my field is very rewarding but very limiting, no opportunity to learn more, advance, and grow. I would love to hear what you've been doing and what your plans are. Again, I thank you for responding to me. Deep in my heart I know that for now this is the only thing that I can do right now to make a change without having to wait and wait...I'm tired of waiting.
Thanks,
Kim

Are You Still In School? Clinical Aesthetician/Skin Care Specialist

Well you already ahve some experience so that is good!! I got my CMA in 1993 and have never had trouble getting a job. I went from ENT/ Opthamology, to a busy 8 physician family practice, to a solo office, to now and urgent care clinic( I make almost $15 an hour). I have taken all of my nursing pre-req's and will be starting full time in January.
Having my CMA, NONE of my credits transferred over into the nursing program. Most everything I took was a 2 credit course ( psych, communications) where as I needed 3 credits, so I had to start over from scratch. That being said if you do choose to go the CMA route and eventually want RN, I think you'd be moving sideways instead of forward( at least I did).
If you do want to be a nurse eventually as much as you hate the wait, I'd go the LPN route. It is a one year program here and then you can work for a while, and eventually " bridge over" into a nursing program. My community college has been saying how the wait is 3-4 years, but that has turned so many people away that now it really isn't bad at all. I bet if you took a year of the pre-requisites ( algebra, english, psychology, body structure) that by the time you finished those you'd have a spot. I am in Wisconsin so your state may be different but ask around. I have waited 3 years to start the core classes, and it has been a long wait but it will be worth it in the end :) Best of luck!!

Are You Still In School? CMA, CNA, RMA

I have shared many of your same frustrations and concerns. I am a medical assistant who just finished my first week of a month long externship. As far as the whole CMA/CNA contraversy, my opinion (while possibly biased) is that CMA is better because we are trained many times over on clinical skills such as venipuncture, injections (I performed at least 200 injections), wrappings, etc. CMAs do not do any injections or venipuncture. And while nurse assistants are almost solely employed in hospitals, medical assistants can do both, though, yes, we are most widely employed by offices.
Medical Assistants absolutely do not get enough pay or appreciation from both the public or the medical profession. In California the start pay (that I've seen) is about $8 to $13.50. CMA Certification get you more pay as well as certification in the "extras" such as EKG, X-Ray, phlebotomy (depending on your school, you may be getting that certificate already), etc. If you don't move on to other medical titles, the only real way to make a good "middle class existence" (i.e. $17/hr&up) is becoming an office manager, teaching at a college, etc.
If you want your R.N., you should go for it. I will be starting the pre-reqs for an R.N. program next Jan. I don't feel the need to go for my LPN first because while they do get the hospital experience, LPNs do many of the same clinical duties as MAs except that I will have had the extra experience of phlebotomy, EKGs. While each level of medical education makes the next one easier to adjust to, remember that many people start fresh for their R.N. or even their M.D.! It depends on how much time, money, and effort you are willing to put into your education. If a medical career is something you really want then don't talk yourself out of it.
Well, believe it or not, this is the short version of my soap box. I hope this helps a bit.
BTW- DONT let your age stop you! If anything, I bet a hospital would be more inclined to hire an older student who had more experience in the work force than a young graduate who probably has never worked before.
Good Luck! I hope that whatever you decide will lead you to the path you've always wanted to travel.

Are You Still In School? Medical Assistant

Dear Kendra,

I just can't tell you how much I appreciate that you would take the time to send me such a thoughtful email. Because of you I feel so much better! Congratulations on your recent decision to move into the R.N. program...I'm very happy for you. You sound very commited and knowledgeable. The program I am entering into here in Connecticut will teach injections but the state will not allow MA's to give them, they teach it in the event you end up working somewhere else. You mentioned that you are 1 week into your month long externship...does that mean you are almost finished with your program? Will you attempt to find a job before entering the R.N. program? You are an Angel to give me all the details and in such a kind way, the end of your email to me was especially encouraging, reminding me of why I want to do this which has absolutely nothing to do with an hourly pay...it's a bridge to another goal.I never considered that my age would be viewed in a positive light until you mentioned it, but I think you're right! I am going forward on this path I'm traveling as you put it so creativley and as I move along who knows what opportunities will come my way. I wish you good health much luck and heartfelt joy in your new career! Thank you for helping me to see the truth.
Kimberlee

Are You Still In School? Clinical Aesthetician/Skin Care Specialist

Kimberlee,

I wanted to comment on a few things. First of all, I understand what it's like to go back to school at mid life. I am 39 and just graduated from an MA program. Like you, I was also met with some opposition from my family, telling me things like you were told - that I was "too smart" for MA school.

Well, I LOVED MA school. I completed my externship 3 weeks ago, which was a very positive experience! THe staff was awesome, the patients were fantastic, and the rewards I gained were absolutely incrediable. I have no doubt I made the right decision to go to MA school.

My main point is that we all have different experiences in MA school and the life beyond. You may read some entries on this website from frustrated job seekers but remember we're not all frustrated - some of us are having great experiences and not finding it frustrating!

I have now begun the job interviewing process. In two weeks I've had four interviews; I have NOT found it hard in Western Washington State to find job opportunities for MA's, both in clinics and urgent care facilities. My interviews have all been positive experiences and have allowed me opportunities to visit and learn how different offices operate. Believe it or not, my age has actually become a benefit for I've had potential future employers offer to start me out at the top of the pay scale (or at the bottom of an LPN pay scale)because of my previous employment(even though that was almost 10 years ago!) and my life experiences. I haven't accepted an offer yet for I'm holding out for "the most ideal" for my family (part time and close to home) but the interviewing has been good and I'm feeling optimistic.

Ya know, there was a 53 yr old gal in my program, who went through a divorce during our time together. She was "starting over" in her career and personal life. Well that gal did great in school, had a wonderful externship, and got hired directly from her externship. She is a success story (and there are a lot of success stories out there!), so keep your chin up.

My bet is that if you LOVE people and love to help, you'll love being an MA. And you're right - once you get that MA diploma, doors will open for you.... and you can always continue your education beyond MA school.

Take care - and good luck in November as you begin school!!!

Sincerely, kim

Are You Still In School? MA Graduate

P.S.

Maybe I should have written that the offer I had was to start me (fresh out of school) at over $15 hour. Just wanted to let you know there CAN BE some relatively decent offers out there...

However, compared to my previous jobs, this is a huge pay cut. As an MA I will be making almost 50% less than I did in my previous career. BUT I am not going into this profession for the money - I am going into it for reasons beyond money. I am going into it with the hope I can touch a few lives - give them a friendly face to see during what could potentially be a difficult time. MY goal is work with cancer or heart patients who are stuggling. I know I won't make a lot of money in this profession, but I feel it's one that I can make a difference in the lives of others... that's most important to me right now.

Now, I must confess that my husband makes enough to support our family of four so I'm not in the position where I HAVE TO MAKE a given amount. I realize that makes a difference in life so I'm not trying to be all "noble" in my writings (ha ha) .

Okay, I've blabbed enough! Good luck Kimberlee!

Are You Still In School? MA Graduate

Holy Cow! I'm in PA and starting wage here is a measly 8.75 an hour and I work for a MAJOR hospital chain. I make close to 3.00 an hour less than I made as a CNA and from what the girls at work tell me raises are a pittance, and my measly wage is the norm in this area.

Lorraine

Are You Still In School? CMA

Good luck to you! I am 46 years old and I too returned to school in the med. field. I chose medical transcription and 2 months into my training of 8 months. I love it! I live in Canada and med trans. here start at $18.00 an hour. Part of my training is also medical assistant training. Once again, best of luck and don't the turkeys get you down!

Are You Still In School? medical transcriptionist student

Dear Kim,

Thank you, Thank you! I felt so connected to you as I read your very happy and positive e-mail. You lifted my spirits in a way that only someone in my own shoes could. I too am not doing this for the money all though I did let negative comments affect me and therefore I started to doubt my decision. But I was so happy as I read what you wrote. I start school on Monday Nov. 14th and as I sit in class there will be a big smile on my face! I want to learn, and grow and set realistic goals and this step is just the beginning! Good Luck as you pursue your career as a nurse your patients will be so lucky to have you because you truly care and the older I get the more I realize that really caring is really rare.
Thanks so much!
Kimberlee

Are You Still In School? Clinical Aesthetician/Skin Care Specialist