Medical Assisting Programs - To Enroll or Not to Enroll

Medical assisting programs seem to be everywhere you look. So, how does the average consumer know where to enroll to obtain the skills necessary for a job in the field? These programs can differ significantly and students must take their time in researching schools if they plan on spending hard earned dollars for tuition, fees, books, supplies, etc.

The facts.

According to the United States Bureau on Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, employment in the medical assisting area is among the fastest growing occupations and will continue to be so for the next eight years. Another plus is that training is fairly short - usually only 1 - 2 years is required.

Before you seek out information on medical assisting programs, you should put pen to paper and determine what your career goal in this field will be - at least initially. You can change your mind later but having at least an idea of the type of work you want to do, where you want to work, if you plan on becoming licensed, etc. will help reduce the amount of program brochures and catalogs you'll be sifting through.

You will quickly find that some programs simply do not offer the benefits you are looking for.

If the school you are interested in attending is pressuring you to enroll by a certain date to receive a special discount or benefit - don't. Unless you are sure you do not want to attend another school for the medical assisting program, please wait. The difference could mean less money you'll have to repay for making the wrong decision.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Medical assisting programs do not refund money because you did not like the program or you thought it was something that it was not. Read all the forms carefully before enrolling.

Signs of Pressure to Enroll

"The class if filling up fast."

"Tuition is about to increase."

"Your scholarship application is only good if you enroll now."

"Your friend, Susie, made the right decision and is starting class next month. Why don't you start school with her?"

Remember, even though these things may be true, you will have wasted time and money if the program is not what you had envisioned. There are no guarantees just smart decisions to be made based on the information provided.

If you are having difficulty making the decision on where to enroll, answer these questions to help you come to your own conclusions.

• How long is the program?
• Do the hours offered by this program make sense with my work schedule?
• Does the amount of class time and study time required for this program work with my lifestyle? If not, what changes can I make?
• Is this program or school accredited?
• Can I afford this program?
• Are there graduates of this school's program working in places I'd like to work? Hint. You can confirm this by speaking with the Career Services office.
• Are there jobs locally available? Tip. Even though employment outlook is excellent for medical assisting, some rural areas and small cities may not offer enough opportunity for all graduates of your prospective school.

Enrolling in a program that will assist you with your career goals without pressuring you to begin before you are ready might be a keeper.  Last piece of advice.  Don't delay enrolling for too long.  Other medical assisting program graduates are already interviewing for your dream job.  Good luck!