Job outlook for medical office assistants

hospital front entranceThe career of medical office assistant (MOA) has an excellent job outlook for the next 10 years in:

  • Entry-level positions available
  • Job growth
  • Room for advancement

If you are considering a career as a MOA, here are some facts about the job outlook in Canada

MOA job outlook in Canada

Overall, the outlook for jobs in Canada is fair to excellent. Some especially bright spots are the Maritimes, Quebec and Manitoba. Keep in mind that you would need to speak French fluently to work in Quebec.

While Ontario’s overall job outlook is fair, the area around Kitchener-Waterloo and Barrie in Ontario is experiencing a lot of investment in health care, which will increase the number of jobs available. The Niagara-Hamilton region also has large health networks and a growing population, which may drive growth in this area.

The only area in Canada where the job outlook is low is Saskatchewan, which is experiencing an economic downturn resulting in cuts to healthcare spending. However, Saskatchewan, like the rest of the country, is still experiencing the demands of an aging population.

If you are looking to make a career in Ontario, Alberta or British Columbia, the job outlook in these areas are fair.

Trends driving job outlook

There are a number of trends that help to drive a positive outlook for newcomers to this type of position.

Moderate unemployment rates – There is room for improvement, especially in rural areas, but overall, Canada has a moderate unemployment rate.

Number of people retiring – The baby boomer generation is retiring, leaving a number of job openings for younger generations. Twenty to 35 per cent of the people working in this field are over 55.

Aging population – With a high demographic of senior citizens, staff is required at all levels of the healthcare system.

Population growth – Canada’s cities are experiencing a lot of population growth. Hospitals and clinics will need to keep up with the demand on services by growing their staff.

Job readiness trends

The most common qualification for a medical office assistant in Canada is a post-secondary diploma. This is one field where it is easy to find work immediately on graduation. A program such as the Medical Office Assistant diploma program at Accelerated Career Institute will give you the right skills in medical procedures, office tasks, computer software and billing that you will need to succeed from day one. As technology is always changing, you will need excellent computer skills to keep up with new demands as they arise.

Once you start your career in this field, there are excellent prospects for advancement. Medical offices like to promote from within. As you prove yourself professionally, you may find yourself taking on greater responsibilities and new job titles.

A career as a medical office assistant offers excellent growth opportunity, stable income and high employment rates. If you are ready to make your career move into this exciting field, contact us to learn about the program at Accelerated Career Institute.

 

 

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Salaries: What do Medical Office Assistants make?

salaries calculatorSalaries for a medical office assistant in Canada can vary based on many factors:

  • Geographic location
  • Workplace
  • Years of experience
  • Qualifications

All the information provided here is an average assessment. For a full picture of salaries and benefits, review job postings and talk to people working in the field. You might consider creating a career alert on some of the major job boards so you can be notified of the latest job postings. These listings often state salary alongside the expected qualifications.

On average a medical office assistant who is just starting his or her career can make between $15 and $21 per hour in Canada.

Geographic location

The area that you practice may have a moderate affect on starting salaries. Medical office assistants in Calgary have reported higher starting salaries than those in Toronto.

Vancouver’s starting salaries are generally in the average range of $15 to $21.

Workplace salaries

If you work at a small office with one doctor you might make a lower salary than those who work in busy clinics. However, dental office assistants sometimes report higher salaries than office assistants working for general practitioners.

A large clinic may be busier, and you will be required to handle more tasks. In this case, you might earn a higher starting salary.

Some workplaces, such as hospitals, could be unionized, which means the union has bargained regular pay increases and benefits for its members. This may result in higher wages, though not in all cases. You will also need to pay union dues.

Years of experience

One of the major benefits of a career as a medical office assistant is the variety of tasks and knowledge you will acquire throughout your career. Many office assistants go on to acquire additional certifications. Some become office managers and start to oversee other staff. There is a great deal of growth potential in this career path.

As you progress in your career you may earn annual salaries in the range of $40,000 to $50,000.

Qualifications

While it is possible to become a medical office assistant without a diploma, it would be much harder. A Medical Office Assistant program gives you a firm foundation in the office procedures and medical knowledge that you will be expected to demonstrate on the job.

Starting off with the right qualifications will give you the best chance of making a solid career start in this exciting field. The Medical Office Assistant job outlook is excellent for the next few decades. As baby boomers age there will be increased demand for medical staff of all types in offices, clinics and hospitals. The demand for qualified team members may help to drive wages, benefits, and job stability for many working in this field.

If you are looking for a career with good opportunity for personal growth and excellent prospects for long-term opportunity, a Medical Office Assistant career could be the right fit for you. Contact us today to learn about the Medical Office Assistant program at ACI and to get started on your career.

 

Medical transcriptionist training at ACI

medical transcriptionist typingIf you are interested in a career as a medical transcriptionist, you will find the Medical Office Assistant program at Accelerated Career Institute helpful in your career.

A medical transcriptionist needs to have a good understanding of basic medical concepts and terminology so that they can accurately transcribe information and prepare reports. That’s why having a diploma is so important to success in this field.

If you are considering a career as a medical transcriptionist, you should have good English language and typing skills. In addition, you should have a strong attention to detail and an interest in the medical field is a definite plus.

Become a Medical transcriptionist through the Medical Office Assistant program

There are several benefits to taking the Medical Office Assistant program as preparation for your career:

You will take two credits in which you will learn about medical science and transcription. As well, you will learn all of the office procedures required to work in a medical clinic or doctor’s office. Medical transcriptionists often handle the day-to-day office administrative work in smaller organizations. This can include answering phones, greeting patients and booking appointments. Having a wide variety of office skills will help you become an invaluable member of the team.

You will also learn basic computer skills, insurance billing and the software programs that are typically used in a medical office environment.

You will need excellent organizational skills to succeed as a medical transcriptionist. Reports must be completed in a timely manner to ensure the patient gets the best care possible. Depending on the work setting, you may need to balance your work with other duties. We’ll help you develop your skills so that you can excel in the workforce.

What are your job prospects as a medical transcriptionist?

Because of the complex information and the need for accuracy, employers hiring medical transcriptionists prefer those with a post-secondary education. Growth in this field is on the rise as Canada’s population ages and there is more need for staffing in all areas of health care. Some medical transcriptionists even enjoy the flexibility to work from home. After graduation, you may choose to pursue certifications so that you can progress in your career.

A Medical Office Assistant program will give you the flexibility to pursue your career goals. If you are ready to get started, contact us today.

What does a Medical Office Assistant Do?

Medical Office AssistantA medical office assistant (MOA) performs a wide variety of tasks depending on the work environment.
For example, a hospital-based MOA may have more specialized duties. On the other hand, an MOA in a doctor’s office, especially a small one, may perform a wide variety of tasks. In addition, offices will be structured differently. In some cases, an MOA may report to a office manager. Otherwise, they may report directly to a doctor.

In any case, good communication and organizational skills will be essential to your success.

What clinical duties does a Medical Office Assistant perform?

A medical office assistant may prepare the exam room and charts, take down vital signs, ready samples for lab testing and assist the physician as needed.

As an MOA you cannot diagnose or treat the patient, but you may have to measure and record vital signs, such as blood pressure.

What is your customer service role?

A medical office assistant is usually the first person the patient sees when they arrive. You will need to demonstrate good customer service skills. You will often have to deal with difficult patients while maintaining a calm demeanour. In fact, some offices are very busy and you will need to multi-task.

Most importantly, you will need to be professional. You will be handling confidential patient information.

A good phone manner is essential for this position. Phone tasks include booking appointments and responding to patient inquiries.

What administrative skills do you need to have?

You will need to be proficient at using computers. You’ll be taking down the patient information at the front desk and booking appointments. You will also need to process the patient’s insurance information. Software applications may include

  • Billing
  • Appointment tracking
  • Record management
  • Insurance processing
  • Bookkeeping
  • Email

Organizational skills will be essential. You will often have to keep track of inventory and order supplies.

What you will learn at Accelerated Career Institute (ACI)

At Accelerated Career Institute (ACI), we understand the complexities of working in a busy office environment. Our program offers the skills to succeed in this challenging role. You will learn about medical science, transcription, billing, and office procedures. You will also develop excellent customer service skills and the ability to work well with all team members. View the courses/curriculum. 

If you are ready to start your career as a Medical Office Assistant, get in touch with us today. We’d be happy to answer your questions and assist you with the application.