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Agencies that support students learning job skills of seeking work work

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Agencies that support students learning job skills of seeking work work

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Agencies that support individuals with their housing needs 

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Agencies that support individuals with their housing needs 

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Agencies that support individuals with recreation, leisure and experiences within their community

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Agencies that support individuals with recreation, leisure and experiences within their community

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Agencies or programs that provide individuals with educational opportunities  

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Agencies or programs that provide individuals with educational opportunities  

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These are agencies that provide information and/or advocate for supports and services for individuals with disabilities

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These are agencies that provide information and/or advocate for supports and services for individuals with disabilities

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Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) (Sandy Miller)

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Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) (Sandy Miller)

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MRS works with High School Students and Employers to achieve quality employment outcomes and independence for individuals with disabilities. They work in partnership with individuals with disabilities to prepare for and obtain competitive employment, including exploring the possibilities of self-employment or owning a small business

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Michigan is home to approximately 1.3 million individuals with disabilities. Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) provides specialized employment and education-related services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed or retaining employment. In addition, MRS partners and collaborates with the State Department of Education, local school systems, Michigan Career and Technical Institute (MCTI), community colleges, four-year colleges, and universities to develop statewide school-to-work, postsecondary, and adult life programs to help students with disabilities succeed in secondary and postsecondary education and transition to employment. We work in partnership with individuals with disabilities to achieve independence and prepare for and obtain competitive employment, including exploring the possibilities of self-employment or owning a small business.

MRS provides a wide range of services just for the business community. We provide business services support including talent development, connections to state and community partner assets and services, reasonable accommodation services, risk management/employee retention and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) consultation. We match prescreened, qualified candidates to your business requirements, and provide follow-up and support to make sure both the employee and the employer are satisfied. Employing qualified people with disabilities just makes good business sense.

Services to job seeker customers and business customers are provided in all 83 Michigan counties. Here you will find complete information about available services, how to apply, and where our offices are located.

We look forward to serving you!
MRS Rate Study

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Michigan is home to approximately 1.3 million individuals with disabilities. Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) provides specialized employment and education-related services and training to assist teens and adults with disabilities in becoming employed or retaining employment.

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The community mental health authority for Kent County. Network 180 connects individuals and their families to services for mental illness, substance use disorders, or developmental disabilities. Must meet DD eligibility per MI Mental Health Code

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Network180, Kent County Community Mental Health Authority, serves adults, youth and families seeking help with mental health, substance use or intellectual & developmental disabilities. We offer a coordinated, enhanced and more seamless experience to better provide behavioral health care and integrated primary care to community members seeking help.

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These agencies provide information, transport, funding and/or vehicle modification assistance to individuals who have a disability

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These agencies provide information, transport, funding and/or vehicle modification assistance to individuals who have a disability

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The category includes respite care, disability specific organizations, etc.

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The category includes respite care, disability specific organizations, etc.

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Advocacy
-Special Needs Alliance: National alliance of attorneys for special needs planning.
https://www.specialneedsalliance.org/
Social Security Administration: provides information about guardianship, advocacy, payees, etc. https://www.ssa.gov/payee/
King's Table Ministries:  Local advocates that offer their services to schools, group homes, churches, and communities. https://www.kingstableministries.org/
Network 180: Community mental health authority for Kent Co.
http://network180.org/en/
Michigan Legal Help: Helping Michigan residents solve their legal problems.  Example scenarios included.
https://michiganlegalhelp.org/

Michigan Family Independence Program:
Insurance and financial assistance for people with and without disabilities. https://www.benefits.gov/benefit/1220

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Kelly will be able to explore a variety of job settings through 3 different internships (one that can be placed at a hospital, an interest of Kelly). Kelly can gain exposure to different areas that can develop her skills in communication and building relationships with those she works with. There is also training available for the specific job of their choosing.

This agency is connected to Hope Network, another agency that works and provides supported employment.

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Transition to Work Transition-to-Work Program The goal for each program participant is competitive employment. To reach that goal, the program provides real-life work experience combined with training in employability and independent-living skills to help young people with significant

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This organization can allow for Kelly to interact with peers and participate within sporting events. She was noted to have a small social group of peers, so by attending this event she can form relationships. Also, her father can interact with her during these events.

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In every corner of the earth, Special Olympics is changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. These stories come from all around the world

50 Game Changers ESPN and Special Olympics have teamed up on a year-long storytelling initiative telling the stories of game changers and game changing moments toward inclusion. Check back each week for a new story of inclusion.

Stories of Inclusion Special Olympics and over 5 Million of our athletes are leading the charge for full inclusion of people with Intellectual Disabilities (ID). The movement is rooted in the spirit of our founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who took a rebellious stand against the injustices faced by people with Intellectual Disabilities in 1968. Today, the fight for inclusion is more relevant than ever. People of all ages, races, genders, cultures, backgrounds, and abilities continue to face discrimination, ignorance, and disparagement. Just as Eunice Kennedy Shriver did 50 years ago, Special Olympics is setting a stake in the ground to create change and, this time, our athletes are leading the way.

Stay In Touch

See inspiring stories, photos and videos in our Special Olympics monthly newsletter.

Make a Difference

Please donate and help us get one more athlete onto the playing field.

About Us

Through the power of sports, people with intellectual disabilities discover new strengths and abilities, skills and success. Our athletes inspire people in their communities and elsewhere to open their hearts to a wider world of human talents and potential.

The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

From a backyard summer camp for people with intellectual disabilities to a global movement, Special Olympics has been changing lives and attitudes since 1968.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics, was a pioneer in the worldwide struggle for rights and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities.

Leadership Teams Special Olympics is led by a senior management team with broad corporate and nonprofit experience. Seven regional offices around the world are headed up by managing directors who support the ongoing growth and development of programs in their regions. In addition, Special Olympics has a Global Athlete Leadership Council which features an Athlete Leader from each of the seven regions and provides feedback, guidance, and ideas to the Special Olympics International Board of Directors and Leadership Team.

About Intellectual Disabilities Children and adults with intellectual disabilities inspire us every day at Special Olympics events around the world. But what are intellectual disabilities?

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The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

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Supported Living- Morgan, Taylor, Selena

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Supported Living- Morgan, Taylor, Selena

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Kelly will investigate various apartment complexes nearby. Herself and her family will look into outside hires for varying supports; continued assistance with money- additional to dad, grocery shopping and cooking, transportation to and from places, etc. Hope Network has apartments that can be offered for living.

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Skip to main content
Talk with us

Why Hope

We understand the power of "home," and how living in a safe, comfortable environment is vital to fueling a comeback. We'll help put a roof over your head that provides you the dignity you deserve, and locates you in a hub of activity close to public transportation and all the cultural touchstones that help give life meaning.

Search Housing

Hope Network offers multiple types of housing options in over 20 Michigan locations. Which means there's likely something just right for you. As you click your way through our menu of options, you'll narrow your focus to meet your need. And if you require assistance, we're just a phone call or email away, click a property for contact information.

Other Housing Search

Unable to find housing through Hope Network programs? Visit supporting programs for more listings statewide.

HUD U.S.

Hope Network is part of the nationwide HUD program. Learn more about HUD's Open Government Initiative. Making Home Affordable.

If you need immediate assistance, or if you or a loved one needs emergency care, please call 911.

Complete our online form and we will get back to you within two business days.

SEARCH JOBS

Visit our careers page to see jobs available in Hope Network.

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Affordable Housing Michigan | Hope Network

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Skip to main content Talk with us We understand the power of "home," and how living in a safe, comfortable environment is vital to fueling a comeback. We'll help put a roof over your head that provides you the dignity you deserve, and locates you in a hub of activity close to public transportation and all the cultural touchstones that help give life meaning.

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Volunteering at Nursing Home (OK, MS, DT)

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Volunteering at Nursing Home (OK, MS, DT)

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This organization will allow for Kelly to continue her volunteer work. She can go to a local nursing home and continue to practice her work ethics.

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For those who require Skilled Nursing services, Covenant Living of the Great Lakes offers far more than care. We endeavor to fulfill the lives of our residents by ensuring that they maintain the highest levels of health for mind, body and spirit.
Available Services

State-of-the-art nursing care 24 hours a day

Medicare-certified

IV therapy

Wound care

Diabetes management

Pain management

Discharge planning

Consultant services, including podiatry and audiology

Cable and flat screen TV in room

Private local phone in room

Pharmaceutical services

Physician and psychiatric services

Wheelchair-accessible transportation

Feeding tubes and oxygen

Full-time social worker

Residences

Semi-private suites with bath
Dining

Three meals daily with entrée selection and table service

Dietitian consultant available

Special diets accommodated

Dining assistance

Keep in mind, you do not have to be a current resident of our retirement community to benefit from our Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing or short-term Rehabilitation services, nor will you have to pay an entrance fee to enter one of the areas noted above. In our short-term Rehabilitation program, we accept Medicare and are in-network providers for a number of managed care and Medicare Advantage programs.

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senior living communities grand rapids mi

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senior living apartments grand rapids mi

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continuing care retirement communities grand rapids mi

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luxury senior community grand rapids mi‎

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assisted living communities grand rapids mi

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supportive care communities grand rapids mi

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memory care assisted living grand rapids mi

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skilled nursing communities grand rapids mi

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long-term care memory support grand rapids mi

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Skilled Nursing Facility Grand Rapids MI | Covenant Living of the Great Lakes

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For those who require Skilled Nursing services, Covenant Living of the Great Lakes offers far more than care. We endeavor to fulfill the lives of our residents by ensuring that they maintain the highest levels of health for mind, body and spirit.

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https://calvin.edu/news/archive/ready-for-life-offers-an-inclusive-college-learning-experience

Ready for Life at Calvin and Hope University.  Provides an inclusive college experience for adults with intellectual disabilities.  RFL students audit two college courses each semester along with fellow Calvin and Hope students. In addition, life-skills classes, such as budgeting and lifetime management, are taught by a certified special education teacher. In addition, students can participate in sports and dance organizations. Inside and outside of the classroom the program has college  students volunteer as mentors. They also have classes that help students with budgeting, how to maintain positive social relationships, what to do when you're sick and other domains.

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Transportation -
Go Bus - GO!Bus is a shared ride, advanced reservation, ADA paratransit service intended to provide a comparable level of transportation to that which is provided by a The Rapid fixed-route bus. GO!Bus riders share trips if they are generally traveling in the same direction at the same time. Trips are scheduled without regard to the purpose of the trip.
Hope Network- Hope Network Transportation Services supports a higher level of independence and ease of life for those with disabilities or disadvantages, as well as older adults. If you see the red bus, you know it’s us.
Pioneer Resources - Through partnerships with contracted agencies, Pioneer Resources offers Transportation services for persons with mobility impairments, developmental disabilities, senior citizens, and others facing transportation barriers. Services are provided along the lakeshore in western Michigan
Wheels to work - program in Walker to help connect employees with employers.

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By attending the YMCA, Kelly can go there to interact with peers and learn about personal health. This organization can allow Kelly and her family to engage in activities as well.

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Membership Has its Privileges

With the Y, you're not just a member of a facility; you're part of a cause. With a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, improving health and well-being, and giving back and supporting our neighbors, your membership will not just bring about meaningful change in yourself, but also in your community.
Unlimited Access Coaching & Training Kids Zone Activity Centers Savings for Your Whole Family

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With the Y, you're not just a member of a facility; you're part of a cause. With a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, improving health and well-being, and giving back and supporting our neighbors, your membership will not just bring about meaningful change in yourself, but also in your community.

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If Kelly's family wanted to look into outside services, it would be necessary for this living option. However, this would give Kelly the opportunity to live with roommates and be more independent.

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To apply, you will need to fill out a Dwelling Place Pre-Application and return it directly to the management office. Pre-applications can be found below or picked up at the management office. Contact information for the management office can be found above. If you have questions, you can contact property staff using the "Contact Me" Box below.

Each adult in a household must complete, sign, and date the Dwelling Place Pre-Application

When applying to multiple properties, individual pre-application may need to be returned to each of those communities specified management offices

Pre-Applications are not accepted at the Dwelling Place Main Offic

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To apply, you will need to fill out a Dwelling Place Pre-Application and return it directly to the management office. Pre-applications can be found below or picked up at the management office. Contact information for the management office can be found above. If you have questions, you can contact property staff using the "Contact Me" Box below.

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This would be a supported living option.

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Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services Grand Rapids, MI

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Residential services for developmentally disabled adults with elevated care needs due to mental health disorders, behavioral difficulties, aging or other medical issues. A variety of levels of care are provided in a home-like setting and include adult foster care homes, supported independent living apartments and an on-site day activity center as an alternative to work placement.

Our highly trained, compassionate care professionals work closely with residents to build daily living skills and social skills, help integrate individuals into the community and provide personalized care based on each person's unique needs. On-site medical, psychiatric and psychological treatment is available for all residents, as well as 24/7 access to nursing support for those in licensed AFC (Adult Foster Care) settings.

We offer a Christian environment that provides support for spiritual beliefs and faith through a variety of on-site services and opportunities. The Christian Homes are located on our beautiful 220-acre wooded campus in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with easy access to community resources, such as stores, places of worship and restaurants.

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Adult Developmentally Disabled Residential Long Term (Grand Rapids) - Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services Grand Rapids, MI

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Residential services for developmentally disabled adults with elevated care needs due to mental health disorders, behavioral difficulties, aging or other medical issues. A variety of levels of care are provided in a home-like setting and include adult foster care homes, supported independent living apartments and an on-site day activity center as an alternative to work placement.

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Due to the information presented, we are unaware of Kelly's interests so we thought maybe interacting with animals and possibly volunteering at the zoo will allow for Kelly to grow in her work related skills and social skills.

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Help John Ball Zoo! Your gift supports animal food, conservation efforts, education programs for kids of all ages.

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This is a training program located in Plainwell Michigan.  It is like an actual college campus with dorms, campus dinning, and they also provide other relevant services for students with disabilities.

https://www.michigan.gov/leo/0,5863,7-336-78421_25392_40242---,00.html

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Administration for Community Living (ACL)- State Protection and Advocacy Systems
-Protection and advocacy systems work at the state level to protect individuals with disabilities by empowering them and advocating on their behalf. https://acl.gov/programs/aging-and-disability-networks/state-protection-advocacy-systems

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These above organizations will be helpful to Kelly because based off of the independent living postsecondary goal worksheet she has no performance in the transportation area.

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Kelly can explore her options in the medical field through this online organization. This website is pretty complex, but it is nice for Kelly and her parents/teachers to go through this together. It breaks down the steps to reach a decision that will make Kelly satisfied in a career and how to get there.

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What Does a Medical Assistant Do?

Medical Assisting Career Basics

Becoming a medical assistant calls for a combination of formal education and hands-on training, which can be completed via numerous avenues. Those who want to earn certification must have some level of formal education in order to do so. Though certification is not required in order to work as a medical assistant, many students opt for certification in order to look more attractive to potential employers.

Medical Assisting Career In-Depth

There are two primary tasks for medical assistants. First, they engage in administrative tasks such as filling out insurance forms, processing medical bills, answering the telephone and handling patient scheduling. Second, they assist other health care providers, such as doctors, nurses and physician assistants, in providing medical care to patients. For example, they often take a patient's weight, blood pressure and other basic vital sign readings at the beginning of an appointment. They also collect fluid samples and tissue specimens for laboratory testing. Depending on the medical office or health care setting, medical assistants may work exclusively in one of these areas or work in both. Generally, the smaller the office, the more likely a medical assistant will take on both roles.

Medical Assistant Salaries and Job Prospects

Medical Assistant Salaries

So, you know what it takes to become a medical assistant, but now you want to know if the education involved in becoming a CMA is worth the cost. Do you know how much medical assistants can earn? While any job in a health care field is generally a very stable career, the bottom line is still important to many people. The median annual salary for medical assistants is about $30,000, with top wage earners bringing home about $43,000. CMAs can command a higher salary because of their additional training and qualifications.

The five highest-paying states/areas for medical assistants reported the following annual mean wages as of May 2014, according to the BLS:

Use the map below to compare medical assisting salary estimates by state:

Medical Assistant Job Growth, Prospects and Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for medical assistants is expected to grow 29 percent from 2012 to 2022. This is a high level of demand, considering all other health care support occupations are expected to grow 23 percent over the same period. Three reasons for the large job growth are the Affordable Care Act's increased medical documentation requirements, the increasing availability of medical care to the general population, and the aging population of baby boomers, who will need more medical care as they get older. The list below provides the 10 states where demand for medical assistants is expected to be the greatest from 2012 to 2022:

Wondering how growth in your state looks? Select a state below for more information about employment and job growth for medical assistants .

Select a State:

Employed Medical Assistants

3% Average Annual Job Growth 340 Annual Job Openings

Steps to Becoming a Medical Assistant

Complete an Accredited Program

Although it's possible to begin a career as a medical assistant without completing a formal post-secondary education program, many employers prefer to hire graduates of accredited programs. When choosing a program, make sure it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

If you decide to pursue formal education as a medical assistant, a multitude of certificate, diploma and associate degree programs exist. A two-year associate degree program offers slightly more advanced training compared to certificate and diploma programs. This is a good option for students who want to eventually earn a more advanced degree (such as a bachelor's) in a health-related field. Certificate and diploma programs are good options for those who want to complete training as quickly as possible, since many can be completed in less than a year.

Obtain Clinical Experience

Some programs require students to obtain hands-on experience in an actual medical facility working as a medical assistant. If a program does not have this requirement, it is advisable to find a way to get this real-world experience. For example, summer internships or externships during the school year may be available to students who seek them out. However this experience is obtained, it is very important because it provides an opportunity for medical assistant students to apply their in-class knowledge and training to actual patients and medical tasks. Additionally, it can help students find postgraduate employment by improving their résumé and serving as an "extended interview" should the facility be open to hiring interns for paid positions.

While certification is not required, many employers prefer to hire certified medical assistants. That's because certification indicates that the medical assistant possesses a certain level of knowledge that has been proven through testing. This preference by employers also means that certification will enhance a student's postgraduate marketability. The following certifications are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies:

Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA)

Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) offered by the NHA

National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)

Registered Medical Assistant (RMA) offered by American Medical Technologists (AMT)

Most organizations require applicants to pass an exam and graduate from an accredited program. However, some organizations, such as AMT, allow students to sit for the RMA examination without a degree or diploma from an accredited institution if they have already gained extensive work experience as a full-time medical assistant.

Medical Assistant Training Programs

Prospective students interested in becoming a medical assistant can choose from two different academic paths. The first is to earn a certificate or diploma and the second is to earn an associate degree. An overview of differences between these two options is explained below:

Diploma or Certificate

Associate Degree

Curriculum Focus

Practical, hands-on training to prepare for entry-level positions immediately after graduating. Courses cover a range of key topics such as medical law, patient care, health sciences, and medical terminology.

Similar coursework as diploma or certificate programs, but greater emphasis on general education.

Duration of Program

Typically one year, but can be shorter, depending on the program

Typically two years of full-time study

Benefits

This is the fastest way to gain career training

Students obtain a degree that can then be used as a stepping stone towards a bachelor's degree

Disadvantages

Graduates may be slightly less marketable compared to graduates with an associate degree, all else being equal

Takes longer to complete a degree and is usually more expensive than a certificate or diploma

Diploma or Certificate

Students who enter a diploma or certificate program will learn the fundamental knowledge and concepts of both the administrative and clinical components of a medical office. The curriculum will provide students with knowledge of the health care industry in the United States and teach them how to understand medical terminology, process medical and insurance forms, and conduct basic medical tasks and procedures relevant to most medical offices. Students will also learn about human anatomy and systems. Toward the end of the program, students will put their knowledge and skills to actual use through a clinical internship or externship.

The following table details some of the classes a student in a diploma or certificate program may encounter, as well as the skills learned from each class:

Associate Degree

The theories and skills taught at the diploma or certificate level are also taught at the associate level. However, students working for their associate degree will get a more well rounded education to go with their medical assisting knowledge. For example, students will take general education courses such as math, writing, and humanities. Also, depending on the associate degree program, medical assisting-related courses will also be taken. Examples of these types of classes include psychology, critical thinking, and Microsoft Office. While not directly related to medical assisting, these classes provide a more solid foundation and context to the core medical assisting education. Lastly, some concepts will be taught at a more in-depth level, such as phlebotomy.

Below is a table of common coursework covered at the associate degree level:

Online Medical Assistant Schools: Key Features to Look For

Medical assisting schools are not limited to on-campus programs. There are many online programs that offer certificates, diplomas, or associate degrees. However, choosing the right online medical assisting school can be daunting. Below are some factors to consider when choosing a distance program:

Faculty Quality

An important factor in measuring the quality of education is learning more about the individuals providing the education. It's a safe bet that the more experienced the instructor is - either providing medical care to patients in a clinical setting or explaining difficult medical concepts to students in an academic setting - the better the quality of instruction. When researching online medical assisting programs, look for instructors and faculty that have years of experience in clinical practice, especially in various roles, such as nursing or administration. Not only will the instructor have firsthand experience of what it's like to be a medical assistant, he or she will also have an alternative perspective of how medical assistants work alongside other health care providers.

Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that the level of education meets certain minimum quality standards. When a student graduates from an accredited school, it tells employers that the student has learned the fundamental concepts necessary to succeed in the profession. Students who want to become an RMA or CMA should look for programs that are accredited by the CAAHEP or ABHES. While graduating from a non-accredited school or program would not bar a student from becoming a medical assistant, it could make it more difficult to find employment and might prevent them from becoming certified.

Certification Examination Passage Rates

Most accredited medical assisting schools tailor their curriculum so that students will be prepared to sit for a certification examination upon graduation. Students should determine which examination the school typically prepares graduates to take, find the school's certification passage rate, and compare that to the national average. This is a good way of determining the quality of a given medical assisting program.

Components of a
Successful Medical Assistant Career:
Skills, Credentials, Tools and Technology

Medical Assistant Skills

Due to the myriad tasks involved in the profession, medical assistants must be organized professionals with knowledge of medical terms and procedures. They should possess a good bedside manner when working with patients and be willing to constantly learn and grow in the field. Medical assistants should be able to multitask and work well in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment. Patience and good communication skills are necessary when working with patients and other health professionals.

As a health care professional, a medical assistant is responsible for effectively communicating with patients. For example, a medical assistant might instruct patients on taking injectable medication. The medical assistant might teach the patient to inject with enough medication to fill provided syringes; however, if the syringe size changes, the dosage must change as well. A medical assistant must recognize this change and assist the patient in understanding the new dosage, thus avoiding an overdose.

Medical Assisting Credentials

The most widely accepted certifications are the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA), Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA), National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) and Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). These five certifications are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

The CMA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that test knowledge in general, clinical and administrative categories.

The CCMA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and is designed for medical assistants who expect to engage in both clinical and administrative roles.

The CMAA exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and is designed for medical assistants who will be primarily in the administrative sphere.

The RMA exam consists of 210 multiple-choice questions and is available to those who have gained formal training or those who have worked for at least five years as a full-time medical assistant.

The NCMA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. It is available to current students, graduates, and those who have earned two years of full-time experience as a medical assistant.

Tools and Technology for Medical Assisting

Depending on the setting, medical assistants use medical equipment such as autoclaves, X-ray machines, blood pressure monitors, EKG machines and hemoglobin machines. With respect to computer technology, medical assistants will need to be proficient in many different types of software.

Types of software include:

Bookkeeping

Billing

Calendar/scheduling

Spreadsheet (such as Microsoft Excel)

Word processing (such as Microsoft Word)

Patient management and electronic records software

Related Healthcare Careers

Still thinking about a career related to medical assisting? The below chart provides similar careers, median salaries, expected growth and training/education required to enter those professions:

Besides medical assisting, there are several other careers and educational paths available for those who want to work in the health care field.

Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics

If medical assisting is not right for you, there are many other related occupations to consider. Below is a graph showing salary comparisons between medical assistants, dental assistants, dental hygienists, licensed practical/vocational nurses and nursing assistants:

Medical Assistant and Related Job Salaries

Search for the Right Medical Assistant School

Use the search tool below to sift through the numerous medical assisting programs available and explore programs that meet your specific criteria.

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Medical Assistant Schools & Careers: How to Become a Medical Assistant

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Medical Assisting Career Basics Becoming a medical assistant calls for a combination of formal education and hands-on training, which can be completed via numerous avenues. Those who want to earn certification must have some level of formal education in order to do so.