Medical Assistant Schools in Arkansas

Medical assistants in Arkansas typically oversee basic tasks in a medical establishment that allows other professionals to focus on their duties. In a clinical sense, professionals in this field can be called upon to draw blood and prepare patients for more rigorous examinations.

In an administrative sense, they are responsible for recording patient information and scheduling appointments, among other tasks.

This article aims to guide Arkansas residents on their journey to becoming successful medical assistants in the state. We analyze all the major concerns that they need to understand, as well as the educational, licensing, and certification requirements.

We also explore the career outlook and salary projections.

How to Become a Medical Assistant in Arkansas

Below is a step-by-step overview of the requirements to become a medical assistant in Arkansas.

Step 1: Graduate from a Training Program

Candidates in Arkansas are expected to attend an accredited training program to develop key administrative and clinical expertise required in medical assisting. Interested individuals should be prepared to attend classes covering the basics of human anatomy and physiology, CPR, laboratory procedures, and patient prep.

To learn key topics and graduate fast, candidates may complete a 9-month certificate program. To learn more in-depth topics, candidates may opt for a 2-year associate degree medical assisting program.

Some associate degree programs may also cover the business management aspect of the profession, along with disciplinary and ethical issues.

Step 2: Find Employment

Medical assistants who have attained the right level of expertise through training in Arkansas can secure employment in hospitals, nursing homes, laboratories, and clinics, among others. After completing a program, individuals are usually advised to enroll in an externship or volunteer at a medical establishment so that they directly learn under experts and gain additional experience on the job before securing a full placement.

Step 3: Specialize & Consider Continuing Education

Candidates may choose to specialize to secure an entry-level position in a healthcare environment. Additionally, even after securing employment, it is imperative to continue growing through continuing education.

Certification, as analyzed below, can help candidates achieve both of these objectives.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

Medical assistants in Arkansas can boost their chances of success by starting their careers with certification from a professional organization. However, no law makes this compulsory.

No law makes licensing a thing, either.

For those who would like to become certified as medical assistants in Arkansas, the Certified Medical Assistant credential from the American Association of Medical Assistants is the most common option. It allows for specialization in both clinical and administrative areas.

Another popular option is the Registered Medical Assistant credential from the American Medical Technologists. This certification is available for candidates with some experience on the job.

Top Medical Assistant Schools in Arkansas

The following are some of the best programs for prospective medical assistants in Arkansas.

Explore medical assistant schools in Arkansas by city:

• Medical assistant schools in Little Rock

Salary & Career Outlook

A medical assistant in Arkansas can earn an annual average salary of at least $30,430 or up to $48,760, depending on where they fall on the salary spectrum. At the beginning of a career, it is possible to manage $30,430 without necessarily addressing factors that can influence these numbers.

After doing so, however, candidates can move on to earn an annual average salary of $38,520, which is good enough for the median earners, and ultimately, an annual average salary of $48,760, good enough for the top 10 percent.

Experience, location, credentials, and work environment are factors that can help candidates increase their earnings. Focusing on location alone, data shows that North Little Rock is the highest-paying destination for medical assistants in Arkansas, with a yearly return of around $40,896.

Fayetteville, with an annual average salary of $40,234; Rogers, with an annual average salary of $39,511; Springdale, with an annual average salary of $39,391; and Fort Smith, with an annual average salary of $39,365, are also prominent places for residents to consider.