Why Medical Assistants are Some of the Most High Demand Jobs in Atlanta, Georgia

Why We Need Medical Assistants

Becoming a medical assistant can be an advantageous career move. Some states require aspiring students to attend a medical assistant program and pass an approved exam to get started in their careers. Certification is optional in some states; however, obtaining certification will help potential employers recognize your knowledge and expertise.

Why We Need Medical Assistants

Medical assistant employment will likely grow 16 percent throughout the United States from 2021 to 2031, far faster than the average for all U.S. job occupations. The research states,

"About 123,000 openings for medical assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire."

Furthermore, medical assistants are in high demand in Atlanta, Georgia, and surrounding areas, due to an aging population, an increased need for healthcare services, and economic growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell metro area is among the top ten metropolitan areas with the highest employment level in medical assistants.

Another factor driving up demand for medical assistants is that they tend to be responsible for administrative and clinical duties, making them an even more valuable asset to any medical practice. They can perform both clinical tasks, like taking vital signs and drawing blood, and clerical tasks, like preparing patient histories. Since medical practices need to be able to juggle both administrative and clinical responsibilities, it's no wonder they need multiple medical assistants on staff to operate efficiently.

With a significantly higher projected growth rate than many occupations over the next decade and a growing shortage of qualified candidates, it's no wonder many people are seeking positions in this field. Medical assisting might be the perfect option for those looking to start a healthcare career!

The High Demand for Medical Assistants: Summarized

Here are some key reasons medical assistants are in such high demand in Atlanta, Georgia, and around the country:

• Need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations.
• Need to replace workers exiting the labor force (retiring).
• Need to care for the aging population.
• Increased need for healthcare services.
• Economic growth in the healthcare industry.
• A need for multiple MAs in medical practices to complete clinical and administrative tasks.

Additional High Demand Jobs in Georgia

Are there additional high-demand jobs in Georgia? Absolutely. From healthcare professionals to technology workers, here are a few of the highest demand jobs in Atlanta:

Healthcare Professionals

With the increased population and the aging baby boomer generation, medical services and support staff have become more important than ever. Physicians, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and medical assistants are all in high demand. Dental assistants are also in high demand in Atlanta and around the country. If you're interested in this career field, learn more about Zollege Dental Assistant Schools.

Technology Workers

Software development engineers, data analysts, web developers, and UX designers are all in high demand. Georgia has many high-tech startups and large employers, making it a great place for technology workers. In fact, Atlanta made Indeed's "20 of the BestCities for Tech Jobs in 2023" list.

Hospitality Workers

With an influx of tourists yearly and several big attractions in Atlanta (such as the Georgia Aquarium and Six Flags Over Georgia), hospitality workers are always in demand. From hotel employees to restaurant staff, these positions require excellent customer service skills and a willingness to work long hours.

Construction Workers

Thanks to Atlanta's booming real estate market, the city always needs experienced construction workers. This includes everything from demolition specialists to plumbers and electricians. In December of 2022, NAR identified Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta, GA, as one of the top 10 real estate markets to watch in 2023.

What Do Medical Assistants Do?

Medical assistants are critical to any healthcare facility, as they provide invaluable patient care and handle clinical and administrative tasks. As a medical assistant in the Atlanta, GA, area, you have the chance to impact people's lives every day.

You'll be working with patients and helping them through their healthcare journey and taking part in vital tasks such as recording patient history and data into electronic health records, scheduling appointments, or completing routine diagnostic tests under physician supervision.

Examples of a medical assistant's duties may include the following:

• Recording patient history and personal information
• Measuring patient vital signs (temperature, blood pressure, respiratory rate, pulse, and heart rate)
• Assisting physicians with patient examinations
• Administering patient medications (when directed by physicians and permitted by state law)
• Scheduling patient appointments
• Preparing blood samples for laboratory tests
• Processing paperwork and billing insurance
• Updating medical records with patient information

However, this is far from a complete list of duties medical assistants are responsible for. There is never a dull moment in the day of a medical assistant!

Medical Assistant Salary in Atlanta, Georgia

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2021, the median annual wage in the U.S. for medical assistants was $37,190 or $17.88 per hour. In Georgia, the annual mean wage was $35,470 or $17.05 per hour. In the Atlanta area specifically, the annual mean wage was $36,870 or $17.73 per hour.

Becoming a Medical Assistant in Atlanta

Becoming a medical assistant in Atlanta can be an advantageous career move. With a high demand for medical assistants in this city and the surrounding area, it's a great career to pursue with plenty of employment opportunities.

Securing Employment as a Medical Assistant in GA

To become a medical assistant in Atlanta, Georgia, you will likely need a high school diploma or GED equivalent to starting. Although it's not required, many employers prefer hiring medical assistants who have invested in completing a medical assisting program and passed a certification exam. For example, it is recommended that you become a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), which can be done by enrolling in a medical assistant training course that prepares students for this exam.

Benefits of a Medical Assistant Certification in Georgia

Completing a medical assistant program and obtaining certification in Atlanta is an excellent way to start your career. A quality medical assistant program will provide students with hands-on training and real-world experiences to prepare to begin a successful career. Additionally, obtaining CCMA certification can provide you with more job opportunities, higher salaries, and valuable skills and experiences that will make you stand out from the crowd.

Begin a Career in Medical Assisting in Atlanta, GA

If you're ready to start a rewarding career in medical assisting, Atlanta Medical Assistant School is a great place to start. Our classes are taught in real medical offices by practicing medical assistants who provide immersive, in-person training to ensure you have the knowledge and experience you need to succeed in the field.

Apply at Atlanta Medical Assistant School and take your career to the next level today!