Degree Overview: Associate of Science (A.S.) Degree for Medical Executive Assistants
Majors Overview March 2, 2014Receive information about an Associate of Science (A.S.) degree for medical executive assistants and its coursework, career choices, and continuing education choices.
A.S. Programs for Medical Executive Assistants
Students enrolled in A.S. Medical Executive Assistant degree programs are generally required to complete administrative courses devised to hone rudimentary computer and office skills, in addition to classes covering activities specific to a medical office setting.
In the majority of cases, it takes two years to complete these programs; however, accelerated programs that can be finished in quicker time are offered by some colleges and schools. Admission criteria to postsecondary programs typically require applicants to hold GED certificates or high school diplomas. Schools offer these programs under different titles such as Associate in Science in Medical Administrative Assistant and Associate of Science in Medical Executive Assistant.
Coursework
Various tasks have to be performed by administrative assistants or medical executives – these include communicating effectively, multi-tasking, problem-solving, scheduling appointments, medical transcribing, interacting with patients and processing insurance. To ensure that enrolled students obtain proper experience as medical assistants, programs usually include coursework that include subject areas such as:
•Computer office applications
•Medical business mathematics
•Business communications
•Electronic health records
•Medical law and ethics
•Medical terminology
•Accounting
•Anatomy and physiology
•Insurance procedures
•Clinical office procedures
Career Choices
A faster-than-average job growth rate has been projected for medical secretaries during the decade from 2008 to 2018 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2012, medical secretaries took home an average annual wage of $31,350. They may choose from job titles such as:
•Medical administrative assistant
•Medical secretary
•Medical office assistant
Continuing Education Choices
While job opportunities abound for medical secretaries, some individuals may opt for continued education aimed at landing higher-paying occupations. Bachelor’s degrees in nursing or medical assisting are offered by many accredited schools in the United States.
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