Inside Arizona's Online Medical Assistant Programs

Online and Hybrid Medical Assistant Programs in Arizona: A Comparison

Beginning a career as a medical assistant is a great way to get your foot in the door working in the healthcare industry as an entry-level employee. By working to support physicians with clinical tasks, performing administrative duties, and dealing with patients, you’ll learn the ins and outs of a medical practice quickly in this field. For example, if you’re considering becoming a nurse, beginning as a medical assistant can help determine whether you’re interested in bridge programs leading to a career as a licensed practical nurse (LPN).

Whether you prefer to take online courses or are more of a hands-on learner who wants to gain experience working in the field, there are plenty of online and hybrid medical assistant programs in Arizona. If you want to build a foundation to earn a higher-level degree, you may want to start with an associate’s degree. These two-year programs combine medical assistance and general education classes, giving you a well-rounded experience. On the other hand, if you want to enroll in an accelerated program that allows you to enter the workforce quickly, then a certificate or diploma is your best bet.

To help you discern the best educational path, let’s explore three standout online and hybrid medical assistant programs available to Arizona students. Later, we’ll answer common questions and explore your options for becoming credentialed.

Answering Your Questions About Medical Assisting Programs in AZ

Now that you understand the types of available online medical assisting programs in Arizona, their cost, and their outcomes, more questions have likely popped up during your research. Since requirements, programs, and certifications vary between states, the most common student questions are about Arizona-specific programs and how to become a certified medical assistant in Arizona.

Are scholarships or grants available for online medical assistant students in AZ?

Whether or not you’ll be eligible for medical assistant grants or scholarships will depend on your circumstances. Scholarships may be available based on your academic performance or financial need, so when exploring your options, it’s a good idea to pay close attention to the requirements of each award you want to apply for. Research available financial aid and affordable online medical assistant programs. Be sure to apply for as many scholarships as you’re eligible for through your school, the federal government, and the state.

One available option for medical assistant students in Arizona is through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). The AHCCCS partners with schools around the state to provide funding for students in different healthcare-related academic disciplines, including medical assisting.

Are there professional organizations or networking opportunities for Arizona medical assistants?

The American Association of Medical Assistants, or AAMA, is the country’s largest professional organization for medical assistants. In addition to providing certification exams, they extend benefits to members, from networking and volunteering opportunities to continuing education and more.

The Arizona affiliate of this organization is the Arizona State Society of Medical Assistants (ASMA), which has a membership of people currently working as medical assistants, as well as students and retirees. The group helps promote the profession and ensures that medical assistants provide high-quality care by offering continuing education sessions and meetings. Also, community outreach is a priority for the ASMA, so members participate in volunteer activities such as providing free blood pressure screenings at health fairs.

What are the admission requirements for Arizona medical assistant programs?

The admissions requirements for online medical assistant programs in Arizona are relatively flexible, although they vary from school to school. Most programs, like the one at Central Arizona College, require applicants to hold a high school diploma or GED. However, this is not always the case. Some schools may not require applicants to have a high school diploma or its equivalent to be admitted.

Generally speaking, there are no prerequisites to complete before applying to an online medical assistant program in Arizona. The curriculum is designed for entry-level students, as stated in Pima Medical Institute’s program description, so going in with no prior healthcare experience is not a problem.

How much should I expect to pay for my program?

Most schools charge tuition per credit, though some may charge a flat fee for the entire program or by the semester or year. Although flat fees make it easier for students to figure out what they will be expected to pay, schools that charge per credit, like Arizona College, offer a tuition calculator where you can estimate your degree’s price. Generally, an online medical assistant program in Arizona is less expensive than an associate or bachelor’s degree and typically ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. You can offset the price of your program by applying for financial aid.

What does an online medical assistant curriculum in Arizona cover?

Your program’s curriculum will vary depending on the type of degree you pursue. Diploma and certificate programs concentrate on the clinical and administrative skills people will need in the workforce. As a result, the curriculum covers medical office management, medical terminology, phlebotomy, and medical office communication.

On the other hand, if you enroll in an associate’s degree program, the curriculum will include a combination of medical assisting and general education classes. This means you may take coursework in English composition, mathematics, and social sciences. Regardless of the degree you pursue, you can feel confident your program will prepare you with the clinical and administrative skills you need to pass your medical assistant certification exams and begin working.

What Certifications and Continuing Education Does AZ Offer Medical Assistants?

In Arizona, medical assistant certification is not required to find employment. However, getting credentials that will make you more attractive to employers is still a good idea. Designations such as the Certified Clinical Medical Assistant, the Registered Medical Assistant, and the Certified Medical Assistant are recognized by companies because they demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills needed in the industry.

Also, earning a certification is an excellent way to keep abreast of what’s happening in the industry. Healthcare is always on the move, so you must keep up with the trends and innovations that develop throughout your career. Since continuing education is required to keep a certification current, you can always continue learning.

For example, every 60 months, those with a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant credential are required to have 60 credits of continuing education completed. These classes, which must be approved by the American Association of Medical Assistants, may cover medical terminology and clinical procedures.

Salary & Career Outlook for Medical Assistants in Arizona

Becoming a medical assistant opens the door to an exciting career in allied health. Fortunately, those who earn their medical assistant credentials in Arizona can look forward to an impressive number of job openings. The employment outlook for medical assistants in Arizona is 33.7%, significantly higher than the national average of 13.8%. This translates to 3,690 annual openings for those interested in entering the field.

In terms of salary, medical assistants in Arizona can expect a median annual wage of $43,770, with the 10th percentile earning $36,360 and the 90th percentile earning $48,090. The highest median wages, at $45,250, are found in the Scottsdale-Phoenix-Mesa area, where many hospitals and specialty clinics are located. Those residing in the Lake Havasu City area earn the least in the state, at $38,470, but this income can increase with experience and specialization. To learn more, check out the charts below.