A career in medical assisting is the best for individuals interested to enter the medical field. It also offers a decent salary and excellent job security and is made for individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy helping others.

To become and begin working as a medical assistant, certification or license is generally not required in most states. However, many employers prefer hiring certified medical assistants.

If you wish to opt for certification, there are accelerated training programs available that can be completed in as little as 6 weeks. Pursuing a medical assistant degree typically takes 1 to 2 years.

Is it Possible to Become a Medical Assistant in 6 Weeks?

Yes!

It is possible to become a medical assistant in 6 weeks, through online training programs. There are many accredited online training programs available that help you complete your medical assistant training in as little as 6 weeks.

However, it is always recommended to check the course and syllabus of the training program, as a proper accredited medical assistant training program needs at least 4 to 6 months to complete.

Preppy, for instance, has 4-month online program for medical assistant training. Opting for an online certification is highly recommended for completing medical assistance training. This is because online programs offer numerous advantages over alternative methods.

By choosing Preppy, you have the flexibility to learn at your own pace and on a schedule that suits you, all from the comfort of your own home. You will also be able to get certified much faster since you will be completing your training in 6 weeks.

On top of that, you will also be given externship opportunities once you finish your course, in addition to the courses being cheaper than their alternatives.

Preppy also offers additional perks such as Free Laptops and 24/7 Support, once you decide to enroll in their program.

Click Here To Learn More About Preppy’s Online Medical Assistant Training Program

Average Length of Medical Assistant Programs

The duration of medical assistant programs generally varies, depending on the type of program you choose. The shorter option, typically lasting 6 weeks, requires significant dedication and work, while longer programs of up to 2 years offer more support and guidance.

Here is the average length of different medical assistant programs:

Online program: 4 months

Trade school: 12 months

Community college certificate programs: 12 months

Associate degree programs: 2 years

FAQs

Is it possible to become a medical assistant in 6 weeks?

It is possible to enter the field of medical assisting in as little as 6 weeks by completing a self-paced online program. These programs offer flexibility and allow individuals to learn at their own pace. Alternatively, some individuals may choose to start working as medical assistants without obtaining certification, although certification is often preferred by employers.

Can I become a medical assistant online?

Yes, there is a wide range of online medical assisting programs to choose from. It is advisable to select a program that offers an externship component, as it provides valuable hands-on experience with patients. Additionally, many of the more affordable medical assistant programs can be found online.

What is the fastest way to become a medical assistant?

With a high school diploma or GED, you can begin your career as a medical assistant without the need for certification or prior experience in many states.

How long does it take to get a medical assistant certification?

The duration of a general online certification course is typically around 4 months, while a community college certification course or trade school program takes approximately 12 months. If you opt for a degree program, it usually takes around 2 years to complete.

If you prefer to gain work experience instead of completing a certification course, you will need at least one year of experience before being eligible to take the RMA or CCMA exam. However, the CMA exam does not accept work experience as a substitute for a medical assisting program.

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