Depending on the size and type of hospital, surgery or clinic a medical assistant chooses to work in, the range of responsibilities can vary widely. The primary task is to assist physicians by performing basic clinical procedures and to take care of administrative tasks. These can include bookkeeping, organizing medical records and arranging appointments.
Most doctors require their assistants to help with basic clinical duties such as checking a patient’s statistics, keeping their records up to date and performing laboratory tests. The job requires someone capable of multi-tasking and who holds at least a high school diploma. Some medical assistants receive their training while on the job, but increasingly practices are looking for people who have received formal training. Excellent people skills are required as persons in such as role commonly apply dressings, administer injections and talk to patients about the medicines they are taking.
There are good prospects for advancement for those who are prepared to take on further training. The average salary is around C
$34,000.