Becoming a Medical Assistant in Hawai’i: Explore the Best Options for Your Future

Breaking Down Medical Assistant Programs

You’ve decided you want a career as a medical assistant — and now the first step is getting an education. While there are no strict education requirements to become a medical assistant in Hawai’i, earning a certification from an accredited institution can boost your resume and may even earn you a higher salary. The three programs below are some of the best in terms of academics, financial aid, and affordability.

But that’s not all these programs have in common. Many programs are either online or hybrid, meaning some or all coursework can be completed virtually. Online learning means you can get the education you need without commuting to and from campus, saving you time and money. However, for those who are unsure if an online curriculum will fit their learning style, we have included a profile of a fully in-person program. Keep reading to get an idea of how these programs are typically structured and what the demands of an online education are.

FAQs from Future Medical Assistants in Hawai’i

The spotlights above are a good springboard, but they don’t get into the important details, like financial aid options or how to choose the right program for you. To make sure you don’t sweat these questions, we rounded up five of the most frequently asked questions by Hawai’i medical assistant students.

What will I learn in an online medical assistant program in Hawai’i?

In a typical medical assistant program, you’ll gain essential skills and knowledge in:

• Clinical skills: Taking vital signs, administering medications, performing basic laboratory tests, and assisting with procedures.
• Administrative tasks: Scheduling appointments, managing medical records, and handling insurance claims to ensure compliance with the latest healthcare regulations.
• Medical terminology: Understanding and using medical terms and concepts accurately.
• Patient communication: Interacting effectively with patients, families, and healthcare providers to maximize the patient experience.

Some schools may also have opportunities to put your new skills to work in a real-world context, thanks to the clinicals required by many hybrid programs.

What is the salary of medical assistants in Hawai’i?

Salaries for medical assistants in Hawai’i depend on factors such as experience, location, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for medical assistants in Hawai’i is $47,840, while the average national wage is $43,350. However, salaries vary slightly across the state, with some areas earning more than others or receiving better benefits, such as more paid time off. For example, earners in the 90th percentile in Kahului-Wailuku-Lah earn $65,320 on average while their counterparts in Urban Honolulu earn just an average of $58,390. After working as a medical assistant, you may wish to get a nursing degree or other healthcare certification to continue to see salary increases.

How do I pass the Certified Medical Assistant exam?

The Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) exam tests your knowledge and skills in various areas of medical assisting, including clinical skills, administrative tasks, medical terminology, and patient communication. The exam leads to medical assistant certification. While not required by the state of Hawai’i, passing the CMA exam demonstrates to employers you have the skills you need to succeed in the field. To prepare for this exam you should complete an accredited in-person or online medical assisting program in Hawai’i that offers exam preparation courses or student resources. Additionally, you can complete online practice exams to familiarize yourself with its format and content.

What is the cheapest medical assisting program in Hawai’i?

There isn’t a “cheapest” program, as the cost of medical assisting programs in Hawai’i can vary depending on the school, program length, and specific courses. Given that there are many online and in-person programs you can choose from, you should be able to find one that matches your budget and expectations. That said, some programs are more affordable than others—and medical assistant certificate programs are cheaper than associate degrees. Plus, your school may offer financial aid options like scholarships, grants, or payment plans to help alleviate costs. You can also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for federal financial aid.

Does Hawai’i state law require medical assistants to be certified?

As we’ve mentioned, Hawai’i does not require medical assistants to be certified by law. MAs are only required to have a high school diploma or GED. However, getting certified can be beneficial for your career as many healthcare employers prefer to hire certified candidates. Certification demonstrates that you have the necessary knowledge and skills and can improve your job prospects and earning potential. It also can boost your application, should you want to apply for a LPN bridge program or get another degree that progresses your healthcare career.

How to Become a Medical Assistant in Hawai’i

As a medical assistant, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of patients and contribute to the overall health and well-being of your community. Medical assistants in Hawai’i play a vital role in healthcare settings, performing a wide range of administrative and clinical tasks.

Hawai’i doesn’t currently license or regulate medical assistants, meaning there are no official continuing education requirements or certificates you must get. That said, certification and continuing education may be required by prospective employers. With the speed at which healthcare changes, staying updated on the latest medical practices and technologies with continuing education courses is crucial regardless of whether it is required or not.

It’s also important to understand the scope of what a medical assistant can do in your state. In Hawai’i, medical assistants perform work under the supervision of a physician or other licensed healthcare professional. As such, they may not be allowed to independently perform certain tasks. Although medical assistants may not be able to diagnose conditions or prescribe medication, they are crucial to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare teams.

Hawai’i Medical Assistant Pay and Opportunities