Medical assistants help doctors by performing a variety of clinical and administrative duties. The scope of their duties generally depends on the size of the practice in which they are employed, with those in larger practices tending to be more specialized. Administrative duties may involve telephone monitoring, patient record organization, appointment scheduling, billing, and bookkeeping. Some common clinical assignments may be: taking vital signs, electrocardiography, drawing blood, performing basic laboratory tests, preparing patients for the physician, and assisting the physician during office procedures.

Work Environment:

Medical assistants are employed by physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and other medical settings. They work with doctors, nurses, and other personnel and may supervise medical secretaries and clerks.

Academic Requirements:

Education is available at community colleges and leads to either a certificate/diploma (one year) or an associate degree (two years). The curriculum covers anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, medical law and ethics, administrative, examination room, and laboratory procedures, medical record management, and other related topics. Graduates of accredited programs are eligible to take the certification examination given by the Certifying Board of the American Association of Medical Assistants. Certification is not mandatory in North Carolina, but some employers require it.

Educational Programs in the Region:

Edgecombe Community College
Nash Community College


Salary Range: $19,000.00 - $27,000.00