by: P.R. Seitz

A medical assistant’s job varies depending on the location and size of a medical practice. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor 62 percent of medical assistants are placed in physician’s offices such as those of generally physicians, podiatrists and chiropractors.

Medical assistants are responsible for administrative tasks; in addition, they also perform clinical support functions. Clinical tasks given to medical assistants vary according to state laws. Typically, these include taking patients medical histories, recording vital signs, preparing patients for examinations and even assisting doctors during examinations.

Full-time medical assistants typically work a Monday through Friday 40-hour work week, although certain offices may require some weekends or evenings hours. Medical assistant may also work part-time as well.

Administrative-driven medical assistant positions often receive on-the-job training whereas clinical-focus medical assistants need to complete a one-year vocational program or a two-year associate’s degree program. These programs are usually available at career colleges, community or junior colleges. Many states offer certification for specialized fields such as ophthalmology, optometry or podiatry, other states require such certification prior to employment eligibility.

Frequently medical assisting is considered entry-level in the medical industry. Salary varies by office, lo