Medical Assistant

Medical Assistants are allied health professionals who perform administrative and clinical functions that support the services of physicians and other health practitioners in a medical office setting. Duties vary depending on the practice and scope in the state. Clinical duties can include collecting and preparing laboratory specimens, performing basic laboratory tests, sterilizing medical equipment, blood draws, performing electrocardiograms and preparing patients for x-rays. Administrative functions include; patient scheduling, registration, billing and purchasing and maintaining supplies. Medical Assistants, if directed by a physician and state law, may instruct patients about medications and special diets, prepare and administer medications, authorize drug refills and telephone prescription orders to pharmacies.