Introduction to Medical Assisting

Comprehensive review of Medical Assisting roles, credentials, regulations, and state-specific scope of practice based on Chapter 1 introductory material.

What are the primary roles and responsibilities of Medical Assistants?

They function as part of the healthcare team performing administrative and clinical duties, screen patients before provider visits, and are responsible for patient care and wellbeing.

Under whose direction must a Medical Assistant work?

They must work only under the direction of a licensed physician.

What are examples of administrative duties performed by Medical Assistants?

Greeting patients, handling correspondence, scheduling appointments, answering phones, maintaining medical records, billing, insurance processing, medical transcription, and arranging hospital admissions.

What are examples of clinical duties performed by Medical Assistants?

Assisting during exams, infection control, diagnostic tests, giving injections, phlebotomy, first aid, administering medications, recording vital signs, removing sutures, changing dressings, and sterilizing medical equipment.

What is the projected growth of the medical assisting field from 2021-2031 according to the Department of Labor?

23%

What does the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) CCMA exam evaluate?

Mastery of medical assisting competencies and clinical knowledge.

How often must a medical assistant recertify with the NHA?

Every 2 years with qualifying Continuing Education Units (CEU).

Who controls the mandatory licensure for physicians?

A state board of medical examiners.

What is the focus of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)?

Safety in the workplace.

What is the purpose of the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ‘88)?

Laboratory compliance.

What does HIPAA regulate?

Privacy (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act).

Which two organizations provide accreditation for Medical Assisting (MA) programs?

The Commission for Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

What is the definition of 'Scope of practice'?

The services that a medical assistant is deemed competent to perform and permitted to undertake in keeping with the terms of their professional certification.

According to the scope of practice in New York, what are some permitted laboratory-related tasks for MAs?

Collecting and preparing laboratory specimens, urine dipsticks, phlebotomy, finger sticks, cheek & throat swabs, and superficial cultures.

In New York, what specific medication-related tasks are prohibited for medical assistants?

Drawing up or administering vaccinations or immunizations, drawing up any medication in syringes, administering medications through any route, and administering contrast dyes.

Is a medical assistant in New York permitted to perform triage or relay positive test results to patients?

No.

What is the definition of 'Standard of care'?

The degree of care or competence expected in a particular circumstance or role.